SEATTLE, Washington— September 2, 2022 — NELSON Worldwide, award-winning architecture, design, and strategy firm, welcomes Kirt Neal as Regional Industrial Practice Leader. Kirt will manage and develop the firm’s industrial practice teams, improving efficiencies, encouraging a healthy team dynamic, and fostering the financial success of this market in Seattle, the Pacific Northwest, and the Greater Western Region.

The industrial, retail, hospitality, workplace, and healthcare sectors have blurred—signifying a shift in function and utilization of spaces. Consumer behaviors and preferences will further evolve, and Kirt’s expertise will allow for continued innovation across NELSON’s project portfolio. Kirt brings over 25 years of comprehensive design and management experience in the civic, justice, education, industrial, and commercial sectors and capital master planning. His knowledge will allow the firm to strengthen its project portfolio across the industrial sector and bring the team together in their commitment to delivering unique design solutions.

“Kirt has a passion for creating integrated solutions and boundary-pushing concepts that meet client needs,” says Chairman and Chief Executive Officer at NELSON Worldwide, John “Ozzie” Nelson Jr.  “With decades of design and management experience and deep commitment to design excellence, Kirt will cultivate client relationships, mentor team members, and strengthen our project portfolio in a region where we’re looking to expand.” 

Kirt’s knowledge in all aspects of design, construction, and operational facilities, including processes, systems, and methodology, prepared him for this new role at NELSON. After receiving a Master of Business Administration degree, Kirt returned to his passion for design. He has since applied his new skills to his profession, leveraging business knowledge to secure financial growth and lead effective teams. Kirt aims to use his resources to create stimulating and dynamic environments that align with innovative design sensibilities. Kirt will focus on mentoring, employee engagement, and a unified dedication to developing and shaping the built environment.

“The multi-faceted firm structure of NELSON allows engagement of resources and teams at multiple levels and locations, which is more conducive to the employment of creative management strategies,” says Kirt. “I look forward to working closely with all personnel related to my practice to have a cohesive team with an integrated process and a greater sense of belonging.”

Kirt began his design and architecture journey in the midwestern US as an architectural intern, working his way to senior project manager of high-profile projects in Seattle. Since then, he has continued a diverse and rewarding career as an accomplished architect for over 25 years.

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About NELSON Worldwide

NELSON Worldwide is an award-winning firm, transforming all dimensions of the human experience through architecture, interior design, graphic design, and brand strategy services. With more than 800 teammates spread across 20 offices, the firm’s collective network provides strategic and creative solutions that positively impact where people work, serve, play, and thrive. The team combines industry knowledge, service expertise, and geographic reach to deliver projects across the country and around the world. Client partnerships across the NELSON network include: Hilton, Macy’s, Comcast, Simon Property Group, Prologis, Yum! Brands, Boston Consulting Group, T-Mobile, Emory Healthcare, SAP Fieldglass, Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield, Kroger, Hyatt, Bayer, Target, and many more.

At NELSON, we believe architecture has the power to create a transformative sense of place, supporting communities and strengthening the fabric of cities across the nation and around the world. Recently named the #2 fastest growing architecture firm, we’re celebrating our growth, people, and projects that are boldly transforming architecture. To do so, we’ve created our latest series, “Architecture Spotlight” to introduce you to a few thought leaders within the NELSON Architecture Team.  You’ll not only get an exclusive look at our people, but hear what’s in store for the future.

This week we interview Jim Harkin, AIA, NCARB, SVP Principal at NELSON. Keep reading to learn more about his career, point-of-view, and what he think is next for the industry.

Q: What is your role at NELSON and how long have you been an architect?

A: I am the National Practice leader for Mixed-Use Co-lead of the Architecture Discipline and member of the NELSON Management Team. I have been an architect for 32 years.

Q: What is your favorite architecture trend of today?

A: The trend of “discovery” is my favorite. I don’t believe that we are in an era or style of Architecture, as in the past. We are in a time of technology, evolution, and pushing the limits of our current construction technology, all while discovering new ways.

Q: What advice would you give a young architect?

A: Be well-rounded, be uncomfortable, be humble, and follow through with any and all opportunities presented to you.

Q: What do you think the future holds for architecture?

A: I think the future is bright, but we must redefine Architecture as a profession.  We are clinging to old ideals and need to catch up to the tools, ideas, and world that are available to us.

Q: What is the biggest challenge the architecture industry faces today?

A: Finding people. Period. There are many choices for “cousin” professions that more and more young creatives are pursuing. Schools need to change and our profession needs to change to attract new young architects.

Q: What sets NELSON apart from other architecture firms?

A: Diversity, size, geographic locations, type of disciplines and practices. There are so many avenues you can pursue at NELSON. A professional can pave their own path.

NELSON Worldwide is pleased to welcome Brian Hine as Senior Vice President, General Counsel. In his new role, Hine will oversee all legal matters for the firm, including contracts, insurance programs, claims and litigation, intellectual property, business transactions, licensing, and compliance. His appointment reinforces NELSON’s dedication to delivering innovative designs and solutions to clients globally.

Hine brings a wealth of legal acumen to NELSON, stemming from a diverse professional background. A graduate of the University of Maryland and the Syracuse University College of Law, Hine began his legal career as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Marine Corps. During his service, he distinguished himself as a prosecutor and international law advisor, with a deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Following his military service, Hine transitioned to civil litigation, honing his skills in construction, contract, and insurance disputes at top Manhattan law firms. Most recently, he served as Senior Counsel to H2M architects + engineers.

Hine’s decision to join NELSON was fueled by the opportunity to contribute to a dynamic and reputable firm known for innovative design. Taking on this new role, he emphasizes his commitment to fostering a culture of education and training, aiming to enhance the company’s legal capabilities and drive continued success.