President | Dennis Johnson BigSam, AIA

Architect at A&E Design | Missoula, Montana

Dennis Johnson is an Architect at A&E Design, a prominent architectural firm located in Missoula, Montana. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Dennis has established himself as a skilled architect and a leader in his field.

Dennis received his Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Montana in 1994 and began his career in Missoula shortly thereafter. He joined A&E Design in 2001 and has since played an integral role in the firm’s success, working on a variety of commercial, healthcare, and educational projects.

Dennis is a registered architect in Montana and is also a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). He is passionate about sustainable design and has worked on numerous LEED-certified projects throughout his career.

In addition to his work as an architect, Dennis is actively involved in the Missoula community. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Montana AIA chapter and is a member of several local organizations focused on improving the built environment and quality of life for residents.

Dennis’s extensive experience and dedication to his craft make him an invaluable member of the AIA Montana Board of Directors.

President Elect | Anthony Houtz, AIA

Project Manager & Architect at Cushing Terrell | Great Falls, Montana

Anthony Houtz, AIA, brings extensive expertise in architecture and project management to the AIA Montana Board of Directors. As a Project Manager and Architect at Cushing Terrell, Anthony is dedicated to creating innovative and sustainable design solutions. His keen eye for detail, combined with his technical proficiency, ensures the successful execution of each project. His ability to navigate complex challenges and deliver exceptional results has earned him recognition and respect within the architectural community.

With a passion for excellence and a commitment to client satisfaction, Anthony has successfully led numerous projects from concept to completion. His keen eye for detail, combined with his technical proficiency, ensures the successful execution of each project, exceeding clients’ expectations.

Anthony’s collaborative approach fosters strong relationships with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders, enabling effective communication and seamless coordination throughout the design and construction process. His ability to navigate complex challenges and deliver exceptional results has earned him recognition and respect within the architectural community.

With his extensive knowledge and dedication to design excellence, Anthony Houtz, AIA, is an invaluable asset to the AIA Montana Board of Directors, driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and advocating for the profession in the region.

Secretary/Treasurer | Nicolas Smith, AIA

Architect at Minarik Architecture | Bozeman, Montana

Nicolas C. Smith is an Architect at Minarik Architecture, a boutique architecture firm located in Bozeman, Montana. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, Nicolas has established himself as a skilled architect and a leader in his field.

Nicolas received his Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Utah in 2005 and began his career in Salt Lake City. He later moved to Bozeman and joined Minarik Architecture in 2012, where he has since worked on a variety of commercial, residential, and civic projects.

Nicolas is a registered architect in Montana and is also a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). He is passionate about sustainability and has worked on numerous LEED-certified projects throughout his career.

In addition to his work as an architect, Nicolas is an active member of the Bozeman community. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Montana AIA chapter and is involved in various local organizations focused on improving the built environment and quality of life for residents.

Nicolas’s expertise, creativity, and commitment to sustainability make him a valuable member of the AIA Montana Board of Directors.

Director of Advocacy | Josi Wilgus, AIA

Architect at High Plains Architects | Billings, Montana

Josi Wilgus, AIA is an accomplished architect based in Billings, Montana, and is an esteemed member of the Board of Directors for AIA Montana. With over a decade of experience in the architecture industry, Josi brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role as a board member.

Currently, Josi works as an architect at High Plains Architects, a prominent firm based in Billings. Her work focuses on designing sustainable and environmentally conscious buildings that prioritize the needs of both the client and the surrounding community. Josi is deeply committed to creating spaces that are not only functional but also beautiful and inspiring.

In addition to her professional work, Josi is an active member of the Montana architecture community. She is involved in several organizations and initiatives that aim to promote sustainable architecture practices and education in the state.

Josi holds a degree in Architecture from Montana State University and is a licensed architect in the state of Montana. Her dedication to her craft, coupled with her passion for sustainable design, makes her a valuable asset to the AIA Montana Board of Directors.

Director of Excellence | Katie O’Neill, AIA

Architect at Mosaic Architecture | Missoula, Montana

Katie O’Neill, AIA is a talented architect and dedicated member of the Board of Directors for AIA Montana. With over a decade of experience in the architecture industry, Katie brings a unique perspective to her role as a board member.

Currently, Katie works as an architect at Mosaic Architecture in Missoula, Montana. Her work focuses on creating buildings that are not only functional, but also aesthetically pleasing and environmentally sustainable. Katie is passionate about designing spaces that promote the well-being of the people who use them and the surrounding communities.

Outside of her work, Katie is actively involved in the Montana architecture community. She is a strong advocate for continuing education and regularly participates in initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable design practices.

Katie holds a degree in Architecture from the University of Montana and is a licensed architect in the state of Montana. Her dedication to her craft, combined with her commitment to sustainable design, make her an invaluable member of the AIA Montana Board of Directors.

Director of Connection | Ryan Schumacher, AIA

Principal Architect at MMW Architects | Missoula, Montana

Ryan Schumacher, AIA is a talented and driven architect, and a proud member of the Board of Directors for AIA Montana. With a passion for design that marries aesthetics and functionality, Ryan brings a unique perspective to his role on the board.

Currently, Ryan works as an architect at MMW Architecture in Missoula, Montana, where he plays an integral role in the firm’s mission to design sustainable, innovative, and community-focused spaces. With his keen eye for detail and deep understanding of the technical aspects of architecture, Ryan consistently produces work that is both beautiful and practical.

Beyond his professional work, Ryan is actively involved in the Montana architecture community. He is committed to supporting the education and growth of the industry and regularly participates in local initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable design practices.

Ryan holds a degree in Architecture from the University of Montana and is a licensed architect in the state of Montana. His dedication to the craft, combined with his commitment to designing spaces that enhance the lives of those who use them, make him an invaluable member of the AIA Montana Board of Directors.

NAC/Assoc. Director | Jennisse Waters, Assoc AIA

Architect at Cushing Terrell | Great Falls, Montana

Jannisse Waters, Assoc AIA is a skilled and passionate architect, and an active member of the Board of Directors for AIA Montana. With a focus on designing spaces that are both functional and visually appealing, Jannisse brings a fresh perspective to her role on the board.

Currently, Jannisse works as an architect at Cushing Terrell in Great Falls, Montana, where she is committed to creating innovative and sustainable buildings that enhance the communities in which they are located. Her dedication to her clients and her craft has earned her a reputation as a trusted and highly skilled architect.

Beyond her work at Cushing Terrell, Jannisse is involved in several initiatives aimed at promoting the growth and education of the architecture industry in Montana. She is passionate about supporting emerging professionals and is dedicated to fostering a more diverse and inclusive community.

Jannisse holds a degree in Architecture from Montana State University and is an Associate Member of the AIA. Her commitment to creating functional and beautiful spaces, coupled with her dedication to supporting the growth of the industry, make her an invaluable member of the AIA Montana Board of Directors.

Past President | Vince Gavin, AIA

Principal Architect at Gavin-Hanks Architectural Studio | Missoula, Montana

With over 20 years of experience in the architectural industry, Vince has developed a reputation for designing exceptional buildings that are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also functional and sustainable.

Vince received his Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Montana in 1998 and began his career in Missoula. In 2001, he co-founded Gavin-Hanks Architectural Studio, where he continues to lead the team in creating innovative designs that meet the unique needs of each client. He is passionate about sustainable design and has worked on a variety of LEED-certified projects throughout his career.

In addition to his work as an architect, Vince is also involved in various local organizations and initiatives focused on improving the built environment and quality of life for residents.

Vince’s dedication to his craft and his community make him a valuable member of the AIA Montana Board of Directors.