Craig Thilsted is a licensed Architect and Project Executive with more than 20 years of experience leading the planning, design, and delivery of complex commercial, educational, institutional, and public-sector facilities throughout the central United States. His work spans projects totaling more than $500 million in constructed value, including PK–12 and higher education campuses, civic and government facilities, commercial developments, and specialty projects.
Craig brings an owner’s mindset to every project, balancing design excellence with constructability, cost control, and schedule certainty. He is known for taking ownership of high-visibility, high-accountability projects and guiding multidisciplinary teams through all phases of design and construction—from master planning and design development through construction administration and closeout.
Craig’s design philosophy is rooted in clarity, purpose, and accountability. He believes strong design begins with a clear understanding of context, program, and the people who will ultimately use the space. His approach emphasizes practical problem-solving and thoughtful restraint—creating architecture that is functional, durable, and well-coordinated, while remaining visually cohesive and carefully detailed. Design decisions are evaluated not only for aesthetic impact, but for constructability, long-term performance, and operational value.
Throughout his career, Craig has worked both within established AEC firms and as the principal of his own architectural practice. This dual perspective allows him to combine deep technical expertise with sound business judgment, ensuring that projects meet client goals while protecting long-term value and performance. He places a strong emphasis on collaboration, working closely with clients, consultants, and builders to anticipate challenges early and maintain alignment throughout the project lifecycle.
Craig is trusted by clients, consultants, contractors, and agency partners for his clear communication, disciplined execution, and ability to resolve complex issues before they impact schedule or cost. His experience includes extensive coordination with authorities having jurisdiction and regulatory agencies, with deep knowledge of IBC, ADA, NFPA, and applicable local and federal requirements. He has led projects using multiple delivery methods and is particularly skilled in navigating complex stakeholder environments where clarity, coordination, and accountability are essential.
Craig is a licensed Architect in the State of Oklahoma, NCARB certified, and holds a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Oklahoma.