Design Collaborative, a leading architecture and engineering firm based in Fort Wayne, announced the retirement of its co-founder and CEO, Pat Pasterick, and the appointment of Adam James as the firm’s new CEO, effective January 2024.
Since its founding in 1992 by Pasterick, Ron Dick, and Terry Wagner, Design Collaborative has been driven by a bold vision to create a client-focused company designed to outlive its founders. The firm was built on the philosophy of collaboration—a meeting of diverse skills and strengths to bring clients’ dreams to life.
Under Pasterick’s leadership, Design Collaborative has grown exponentially from its origins in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to a thriving firm employing more than 85 professionals, with offices in Fort Wayne, Ind. and Charlotte, N.C. and a client portfolio spanning 19 states.
Pasterick’s retirement marks the final stage in a multiyear, strategic leadership transition. Adam James, a Senior Architect and Partner with more than a decade of experience at Design Collaborative, will assume the role of CEO. Known for his dedication and leadership, James has worked closely with Pasterick to prepare for this transition and is poised to lead the firm into its next chapter.
“We are deeply grateful for Pat’s leadership and vision, which have shaped the firm into what it is today,” said James. “As we move forward, our focus remains unchanged—to build meaningful relationships with our clients and create extraordinary spaces that improve people’s worlds.”
