Life Time Achievement Award

Rowland Mitchell, or “Mitch,” is a tremendous asset to West Michigan’s architectural community. His passion for the technical aspects of the industry, his willingness to answer questions, and his vast experience make anyone who works with him a better architect.

Technical Expert
Mitch is unequalled in his expertise of the technical aspects of how to build a building; how drawings work with the specifications; and how to appropriately integrate building systems and materials. He is the person to address code issues, because of his in depth knowledge of the codes, as well as his ability to interpret those codes. Because of his demeanor, his encounters with code officials are more conversations, and often, both sides walk away with a better understanding of the code.

Mentor
Mitch readily shares his vast knowledge of the architectural profession. He is both a formal and informal mentor. Mitch is the Architectural Discipline Leader and manages Progressive AE’s IDP (Intern Development Program). Informally, Mitch is always available to answer technical questions.

Experienced
Locally, Mitch played a key role in DeVos Place; the Grand Rapids Public Museum; Steelcase Inc.’s Corporate Development Center, Corporate Headquarters, and University Learning Center; Grand Rapids Public Schools; and a host of others. This vast, diverse background makes him a key resource for any building type.

In Mitch’s almost 40 years as an architect, neither his passion nor energy has diminished. He puts the same rigor into each project now as he did then. Clients call him because he has become a trusted advisor, and he has earned that designation, one that takes a professional lifetime.