FORT WAYNE, IN.— Effective January 1st, 2024, Barton Coe Vilamaa Architects & Engineers is beginning a new chapter for the soon-to-be 55-year-old architectural and engineering firm. With the start of the New Year, Barton Coe Vilamaa (BCV) will experience a changing of the guard in the roles of President and Vice President. 

Over the last seven years, Dana Wannemacher has served the organization as President, providing vision and direction to the firm’s architects and engineers. Under Wannemacher’s leadership, Barton Coe Vilamaa has grown tremendously in numbers and reach, having served more than 75 K-12 school corporations in Central and Northern Indiana. With 2024 marking his 25th year with the firm, Wannemacher will transition to an advisory role as Chief Executive Officer.

Filling the seat as President is Brian Bohlender, who has provided his direction over the day-to-day operations as Vice President for the last seven years. The Ball State University graduate and American Institute of Architects member is also entering his 25th year of service at Barton Coe Vilamaa. Bohlender’s innovative and analytical thinking will provide support and insight to the firm’s personnel and partners through leadership and collaboration.

“BCV’s longevity is a testament to our trusting and supportive clients and our diligent staff and consultants,” Bohlender said. “Each project that we undertake affects Indiana students and Indiana communities, and each one requires a team effort to be successful. I have always taken pride in being a small part of an organization doing good throughout Indiana, and I am honored and humbled to carry forward this legacy of excellence.”

Moving into the role of Vice President is Ryan Bowland, a Professional Engineer and Certified Energy Manager who has guided the firm’s mechanical and electrical engineering teams since 2020 as the Director of Engineering. In 2024, the Valparaiso University graduate will enter his 20th year at Barton Coe Vilamaa.

Adam Weesner and Karen Fisher will remain as Principals of the firm in addition to their roles as Project Architect, providing sustainable and creative solutions to the firm’s current and future K-12 Education partners.

With a combined 118 years of architecture and engineering experience, Barton Coe Vilamaa’s Executive Team is excited to continue to deliver high-quality planning, architecture, and engineering services to Indiana school corporations for years to come.