'Paying That Forward': Klein & Hoffman’s New President On The Importance Of Company Culture

Chicago-based architectural and structural engineering firm Klein & Hoffman has completed thousands of projects across 18 states since its inception in 1953, delivering more than 300 projects annually and racking up awards and honors. These include being named among the top 100 places to work in Chicago. 

But beyond the numbers and accolades, what makes Klein & Hoffman successful is its commitment to core values of positivity, responsibility and mutual respect, said Allysia Youngquist, Klein & Hoffman’s new president.

“We always try to be open to new opportunities and make new discoveries within our industry, whether it's finding a new client sector or learning from each other — no matter what level you're at in the organization,” Youngquist said. “This culture has allowed us to build out top-notch talent.”

Assuming her new position in July 2024, Youngquist said it’s essential for Klein & Hoffman to adhere to these principles as it continues to grow. Staying true to its core beliefs is especially important in attracting and retaining clients and staff.  She indicated that the firm's culture is not just an internal strength but also a competitive advantage.

“As a group, we’re passionate about providing exceptional results,” Youngquist said. 

K&H has a client retention rate of approximately 90%, said Youngquist. Its longest-standing client relationships have surpassed the 30-year mark — a testament to the way the firm operates, she said.

“We continue to work with the majority of our buildings and clients through the years because they understand the value that we bring to the table,” she said. “We make sure that we strategize creatively and listen to our clients' needs while being budget conscious.”

Youngquist said that if people hadn't listened to her at the start of her career, she wouldn't be where she is now this early on in her career. Many Klein & Hoffman partners, including those who have retired or are getting ready to retire, treated her as a peer, she said.  

“I’ve always felt I received the utmost support and felt included,” she said. “They always made me feel like I was part of the team. Now, I’m paying that forward.”

Youngquist started her career at Klein & Hoffman in 2002 when the firm was on the cusp of its 50th anniversary. In 2014, she became a shareholder and partner, and eight years later she was promoted to principal, leading its building enclosure, waterproofing and roofing division and architecture/engineering group, eventually moving into her role as president earlier this year. 

Twenty-plus years at the same company may seem like a long tenure nowadays. But even after receiving career opportunities with other firms over the years, Youngquist decided that K&H was the best place to flourish in her career because of its distinct culture.

“We don’t try to live inside a box at Klein & Hoffman, and we’re always open to new opportunities and ideas,” she said. “The secret is learning from each other, no matter what level you are at and what stage in your career, and K&H has built a culture where this happens rather seamlessly. By having a voice, it helps drive the ability to attract new business opportunities and allows us to continue to work with clients who challenge us to do our best daily.”

Youngquist has worked on myriad projects throughout her career and said she is fortunate to help maintain the building envelope of multiple buildings. Working closely with colleagues, contractors and clients has contributed to growth over the years. A few projects that have impacted her growth include The Shedd Aquarium, The Drake Hotel, Terminal 1 at Chicago O'Hare International Airport, and 10 and 120 S Riverside. These projects required significant collaboration to find practical and successful solutions to various façade and roofing challenges, she said.  

Moving forward as president, Youngquist’s focus will encompass coaching and mentoring colleagues through direct work on client projects. Fostering a culture of meaningful collaboration, an enjoyable work environment and a positive work-life balance will also help the firm maintain leadership in its field, she added.  

Youngquist said that if she were to give advice to young architects and structural engineers, it would be to not give up on sharing their thoughts and ideas and strive to be a leader. This may not always be easy to do, but working with a company that has a culture of being open to others’ ideas and fosters a sense of mutual respect is vital for individual success. 

A leadership team that doesn't rule with a “my-way-or-the-highway” mentality also will fuel the firm’s growth and financial health, she added.  

Youngquist is not the only longtime Klein & Hoffman employee to contribute to and benefit from its culture.

In January, Klein & Hoffman announced Terry McDonald as its new CEO. McDonald joined the firm as a project engineer in 2004. He has worked on a variety of projects throughout his time at K&H and played a large role in structural repair, adaptive reuse and building renovation projects.

“The team we’ve built enables us to execute on our vision,” Youngquist said. “But it’s not just one vision, it’s multiple visions, and we have that diversity embedded in our culture. If people hadn’t listened to me back then, I wouldn’t be where I am now. Together, we will continue to build a firm that inspires, supports and excels for generations to come.”

This article was produced in collaboration between Studio B and Klein & Hoffman. Bisnow news staff was not involved in the production of this content.

Studio B is Bisnow’s in-house content and design studio. To learn more about how Studio B can help your team, reach out to studio@bisnow.com.