Culture
At FitzGerald, we’re more than just architects and designers - we’re a team of supportive, ambitious, and curious individuals who come together to do great work.
We believe in building not just remarkable spaces but also a thriving, inclusive community where every voice is heard, ideas are valued, and growth is celebrated. Whether we’re collaborating on complex projects or supporting our communities, our culture is rooted in shared success, respect, and a genuine passion for what we do.
We work from a foundation of trust through our open-door policy, which ensures that everyone has access to information and the freedom to connect with leadership on anything from project details to firm strategy. Operationally, we have a variety of committees and task forces focused on key areas like project delivery, sustainability, and DEI, allowing employees to shape the firm’s direction based on their passions.
What We Value
Strengthening Our Team: We create opportunities for team members to connect through programs and activities that offer a chance for the team to celebrate achievements, share milestones, stoke our creative fire, and connect with one another. We also find opportunities to share and demystify the challenges of our work—to emphasize that a mistake made is not a moment of shame, but rather a chance to learn.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: We believe that a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds, and experiences leads to stronger teams and better outcomes for our clients and the broader community we serve. Through mentorship and targeted outreach, we’re helping create new opportunities for those who might not have had access before. Programs that discuss and honor under-represented cultures and populations keep diversity, equity, and inclusion at the forefront of our minds. Our goal is to make sure all voices are heard, both within our firm and in the industry.
Community Engagement: We’re committed to giving back where we live and work. We dedicate time, talent, and resources to initiatives that enhance neighborhoods and improve quality of life, such as our support of the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless and Habitat for Humanity. We also aim to diversify the design profession by supporting mentoring programs, internships, and scholarships with groups like AIA Architects in School, the Chicago Architecture Center Teen Fellows, Marwen, and the Newhouse Competition Prize Internships.
Professional Development: Our work is not only to build buildings, but also to build the careers of architects and designers. It’s critically important to us that our people succeed and thrive, and that’s why we offer support for licensure, certifications, continuing education, and industry group participation. We identify and nurture future leaders from within, providing guidance and resources to help all our employees take charge of their careers and reach their goals.
Balance & Flexibility: FitzGerald has a hybrid workplace with team members across the country. We recognize that our team members are more than just designers and architects, with passions and commitments beyond their careers. Our offices are set up with flexible collaboration in mind, offering a variety of spaces to support different working styles and needs. Our benefits are designed to support employees and their families, from core hours and Summer Fridays to time off for winter holidays and volunteering.
