Bio

John Rizor, AIA NCARB
CDT WELL AP
West Michigan
Architect
Progressive|AE

John Rizor is an Architect at Progressive AE, serving local organizations such as Frederik Meijer Gardens, Steelcase, the Lakeshore Convention Center, the City of Grand Rapids, and the Grand Rapids Chamber within the firm’s community-based projects studio.  John earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from Ball State University and has worked in a variety of markets since gaining licensure.  Following practice at award-winning architectural firms in Chicago and San Antonio, John has returned to his native state of Michigan with a diverse background of professional experience including architecture, general contracting, real estate, and design editorial as a contributor for ArchDaily and Design Bureau magazines.  While untraditional, John sees his diverse career path as an asset and routinely leverages his broad range of experience to complement his true passion, the practice of architecture proper. 

In addition to the practice of architecture, John also serves as founding chair of the ACE Mentor Program of West Michigan, a free, award-winning, afterschool program designed to attract high school students into pursuing careers in the Architecture, Construction and Engineering industry, including skilled trades.  John led the program in its first two program years (2019-2020) and is looking forward to leading them into the 2021-2022 program year and beyond.  John is also serving as the AIA Grand Rapids Vice President/President Elect, a committee member on Progressive AE”s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, and has served an adjunct professor of Architecture at Ferris State University’s Kendall College of Art and Design.

On a personal note, John is a resident of Spring Lake, enjoys international travel, and spends his free time engaging in outdoor activities with his wife, daughter, and son.