Justin Bishop joins OPN leadership as Associate Principal

OPN Architects is pleased to announce the promotion of Justin Bishop, AIA LEED AP, to a new leadership role as Associate Principal.

Bishop has been a leader at OPN in all of his 11 years at the firm, where he has worked since earning his bachelor of architecture from Iowa State University in 2004. From the job site to the teaming room and on professional boards and volunteering in the community, he has demonstrated his commitment to OPN, the field of architecture, and the community.

Since joining OPN’s Cedar Rapids office in 2004, Bishop has been a part of some of OPN’s most complicated commissions. Through AIA, he has encouraged the advancement of emerging professionals and as a member of OPN’s management team he has been tasked with puzzling through internal operation challenges, managing all internal committees, organizing retreats and championing community service.

He was instrumental in leading the design team on the Cedar Rapids Event Center, a $175 million 2008 flood recovery project. He is also leading the exterior envelope team on the new $172 million Hancher Auditorium for the University of Iowa with internationally renowned architect Pelli Clarke Pelli.

“These are but a few of the noteworthy projects Justin has played an important role on in his career,” said OPN Principal and Partner Daniel Thies. “Whether directly involved or not, most of the projects in the studio are influenced by his skills and talent. His leadership in the studio is exemplary.”

Bishop’s promotion at the firm comes at a time of continued growth at OPN Architects and follows his own personal and professional achievement by completing the professional MBA program at the Tippie College of Business at the University of Iowa in 2015.

“I have always treated this company as my own so I’m I excited for the opportunity to gain equity in the place I love,” he said. “It’s really an honor and a privilege. The people here make it such an amazing place. I’m excited to be a part of the future.”

Justin grew up in rural northern Iowa. He and his wife Emily enjoy exploring the world with and encouraging creativity in their two young sons.

His promotion is one of four announced in Minneapolis during OPN’s annual staff retreat.James Meiers-Gast and Susan Bowersox have been appointed Associates and Danielle joins Bishop as an Associate Principal on OPN’s core leadership team.