Al Roberts, RA, DBIA, CDT

Al has been a Senior Project Manager at Fentress for over two decades, bringing a unique blend of technical expertise and business acumen to his role. Growing up with a father who was a mechanical engineer at Boeing, Al developed a natural talent for math and science, which initially led him to pursue an engineering degree himself. However, as he neared completion, Al realized he was drawn to the holistic nature of architecture, where creativity and science meet. This pivot has shaped his approach to architecture, with his engineering background informing his strength in the technical and documentation aspects of the field.

Al excels at understanding clients’ needs and identifying the driving forces behind their project goals, whether it’s making an architectural statement or supporting a practical business function. His ability to balance the creative and business aspects of architecture ensures that the design both meets the client’s vision while being both feasible and sustainable. This attention to detail and strategic insight have earned him the trust of both clients and colleagues.

For Al, the Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine stands out as an especially notable project in his career. The collaborative design-build process allowed Al to work closely with the client and contractor, resulting in an iconic and economical design that complements the adjacent Salk Institute and overall UC San Diego campus. Al views this project as a reflection of the Touchstone™ “Use Context to Create Identity”, where culture, environment, and place define each project. This approach ensures that no two designs are alike – each one a reflection of its unique context.

Outside of his professional responsibilities, Al enjoys craftsmanship and woodworking, often building furniture or custom-made fly rods for friends and family. His rural Colorado home allows him to stay connected to nature and his community, where he works with his local church to provide firewood and other survival necessities to those in need.