2026 Promotions

We are kicking off 2026 full steam ahead with several promotions to celebrate.

John Bisch, LEED AP — Senior Principal

This year will mark 30 years that John has been at Hickok Cole —wow! He has truly been here since the beginning, guiding the firm through periods of dynamic growth and economic shifts with steadfast leadership and clarity as the CFO + COO. With deep expertise in architectural management, he oversees firm operations, financial strategy, and cross-team collaboration, all with his signature humor.

Laurence Caudle, AIA — Senior Principal

As the Director of Housing, Laurence leads a skilled team that continues to advance our multifamily practice nationally. A recognized expert in adaptive reuse and office-to-residential conversions, Laurence champions creative design solutions that prioritize sustainability, like Balsa. He is fluent in new build luxury high-rise buildings, while also being no stranger to affordable housing. The latest on-the-boards residential project he is involved in, One Rosslyn, is set to deliver a 375,000-SF high-rise that will shape Arlington, VA’s skyline. An active member in the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and Urban Land Institute (ULI), Laurence advocates for the implementation of modular, cross-laminated timber, and wood-frame technologies for architecture.

Rob Holzbach, FAIA, LEED AP — Senior Principal

Rob’s leadership spans two decades of design excellence and firm stewardship. He is the Director of Commercial Office, expanding market presence while ensuring every project adds value for clients and communities. To name a few, his greatest hits projects include the American Geophysical Union‘s headquarters, the first net-zero energy renovation in the Mid-Atlantic, and 80 M Street SE, DC’s first mass timber construction office building. Rob is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) College of Fellows – one of the highest honors bestowed by the AIA upon its members. He is also a NAIOP Northern Virginia Board of Directors and Executive Committee member and Vice Chair of the Education Committee.

Mark Ramirez, AIA — Senior Principal

Mark has been instrumental as Managing Director in shaping the firm’s direction, running project and staff operations, and plays a key role in retention and recruitment. With nearly three decades of experience, he combines executive leadership with hands-on project work, supporting curiosity and innovation across teams. Mark champions a culture that balances strategic vision with creative exploration. Mark’s latest focus has been the National Geographic Museum of Exploration in Washington, DC. stands out for its complexity and innovation. This project is exceptionally incredible as five to six unique, cutting-edge systems integrate into a comprehensive visitor experience. He continues to push the boundaries of what thoughtful design can accomplish.

We also celebrate the promotion of Lauren Windsor, Director of Project Operations, to Associate Principal and Megan Luken to Associate.

Congratulations to Associate Principal, Melissa Brewer, NCIDQ, for her promotion to Director of Themed Interiors, Senior Associate, Laura Heeter, NCIDQ, IIDA, for her promotion to Design Director – Richmond Studio Lead, and Associate Principal, Thomas Corrado, AIA, LEED AP, for his promotion to Design Director.

“Our firm continues to grow because of the amazing people behind the work,” said Managing Director Mark Ramirez, AIA. “These promotions recognize leaders who elevate our design, strengthen our culture, and challenge us to think differently.”