Wayne Schmidt’s measured risk taking and desire to control his own destiny led him to launch his own architectural firm July 4, 1976. He started out with $800, six years of experience, an undergraduate degree and a belief that it’s all about attitude.
Schmidt Associates has grown into a full-service facility design firm with strong ties to leaders in government and education in the state of Indiana and a growing national presence. What started as a one-man dream has become a 98-person firm.
Schmidt had the vision to invest in revitalizing the Indianapolis downtown area long before it was recognized as a vibrant urban neighborhood. His perseverance and consensus building was instrumental in obtaining money to improve facilities in the Indianapolis public school system.
Schmidt implemented an innovative gate system of quality management at his firm to ensure excellence in service and design. Projects do not advance to the next stage until every item in the previous stage has been checked off. This system, coupled with a structure of continuing internal and external 360-degree feedback, supports the firm’s reputation for really listening.
Servant leadership is implemented as an integral part of how every employee of Schmidt Associates is expected to live out his or her work. It is taught at orientation and supported through the culture of the firm.
Schmidt also provides 100 on-site educational opportunities, quarterly off-site retreats and encourages an intentional approach to growth and development with career paths and advocates to facilitate advancement.
How to reach: Schmidt Associates, (317) 263-6226 or www.schmidt-arch.com