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2025 North Central Region Conference
Wed 3/26 - Fri 3/28, 2025
Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District
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Breakfast & Keynote: Designing for Success
Collaborative Approaches in the Joslyn Art Museum Expansion
CEU Credit:
1 AIA LU
Program Description:
This program explores the innovative collaboration between Alley Poyner Macchietto Architects and Architectural Wall Systems in the design and construction of the Joslyn Art Museum expansion. It will provide an in-depth look at the project, discussing challenges, solutions, and key successes and will also highlight how early contractor involvement and effective communication impacted design, cost, and schedule. Attendees will gain valuable insights into best practices for collaboration on complex projects.
Learning Objectives:
Understand Collaborative Strategies:
Learn how early-stage collaboration between architects and contractors can streamline the design process and positively impact project outcomes, including budget and schedule.
Identify and Solve Project Challenges:
Explore specific challenges faced during the Joslyn Art Museum expansion and how effective communication and problem-solving strategies addressed these issues.
Enhance Building Safety and Welfare:
Discover how collaborative design and construction processes contribute to the health, safety, and welfare of building occupants through improved material selection, construction techniques, and system integrations.
Recognize the Value of Contractor Engagement:
Understand how engaging contractors during the design phase can inform decision-making, ensure constructability, and optimize project delivery.
Education Session Speakers
Ryan Fisher, AIA
Architect, Partner
Alley Poyner Macchietto Architecture
As a graduate of Iowa State University, at school Ryan sought to develop his own meaning of design under the guidance of professors who advocated for a pragmatic architecture that was honest, rational, and clear. Since graduating in 2010, Ryan has been fortunate to work on a variety of civic and culturally focused project types including museums, libraries, community centers, and schools. In all of these projects, he has continued to strive for simplicity and pragmatism. Interested in the connection between architecture, fabrication, and modern construction techniques, Ryan is intrigued by the relationship between these mechanisms and the process of detailing, mocking up, and working with one’s hands.
Nathan Mittag
Senior Vice President
Architectural Wall Systems, LLC
Growing up in a small town in central Iowa instilled in Nathan a strong work ethic and a hands-on approach to community and school activities. His summers as a house framer and nights as a high school baseball utility player fueled his passion for construction and the built environment. Recognizing the need for strong academics, he pursued a degree in Construction Engineering at Iowa State University, where he found the perfect balance of civil and structural engineering with construction project management.
Since joining Architectural Wall Systems (AWS) in 2006 after two successful internships, Nathan has gained extensive experience in estimating, sales, design, and project management. Now Senior Vice President, he focuses on system development, design, estimating, and system delivery, ensuring the highest quality building envelope solutions within budget. His commitment aligns seamlessly with AWS’ mission to Build Better.
Outside of work, Nathan enjoys life with his wife Ashley, their two children, Coltrane and Cadence, and their 15-pound miniature schnauzer, Belle.
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