Robert L. Holzbach Begins Term as 2020 President of the AIA|DC

We are pleased to announce Robert L. Holzbach, AIA, LEED AP, our Principal and Director of Staff Operations, has begun his term as the 2020 President of the Washington Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA|DC).

Having joined the AIA|DC Board of Directors in 2015 as an At-Large Member, Rob went on to serve as Secretary, Treasurer, and President-Elect before stepping into his current role as President. During his tenure, Rob pioneered the creation of the DAC Leadership Series, a program designed to provide continuing education and leadership development for mid-career professionals, with panel topics in 2019 including Unconscious Bias, Artificial Intelligence, Leadership for the Next Generation, and Alternative Career Paths.

With over two decades of experience in the architecture and interior design profession, Rob brings his leadership skills and industry knowledge to the AIA|DC.  He is particularly interested in forging connections with like-minded organizations focused on Climate Action.  This effort brings the AIA|DC into alignment with the AIA National’s “Big Move Toward Environmental Stewardship”, which seeks to declare an urgent climate imperative for carbon reduction, transform the day-to-day practice of architecture, and take immediate action.  He is also invested in issues of equity, diversity, and inclusion and has reshaped the Board of Directors to accurately reflect the chapter’s diverse membership.

As a Principal at Hickok Cole, Rob is a Project Director for commercial office building projects, and as Director of Staff Operations, he is responsible for firm wide recruiting, retention, and staffing management.  His most notable projects include the NPR headquarters, 909 Rose Avenue at Pike & Rose, Franklin Square at 1300 Eye Street (reposition), and the Incubator Office building at Potomac Yards.

“I am thrilled to step into the role of President after many years of being a part of the AIA|DC Chapter. Throughout my membership, I have witnessed first-hand the value this remarkable organization provides, not only to the profession but to the city as a whole,” said Rob. “I look forward to working with my fellow Board Members to build upon the achievements of my predecessors and honor the role of the AIA within the architecture community.”