Michael Cherock, PE, RCDD, CEO & Founder

Michael Cherock is a visionary entrepreneur who, since founding the company in 2007, he has steered 18 years of strategic growth—delivering over $3 billion in building projects spanning 100 million square feet for federal agencies, major universities, healthcare systems, and leading commercial clients. Under Michael's vision, AE Works successfully completed a key acquisition that positioned the firm as the largest architecture firm in Pittsburgh, also notably recognized on the Architectural Record 300, expanding its capabilities to better serve clients across multiple sectors.

With a passion for cutting-edge technologies and creative problem-solving, Cherock is pushing the boundaries of the architectural engineering industry. He holds Master's degrees in Management from Harvard University and in Architectural Engineering from Penn State, and also is a qualified nuclear power plant operator through the Navy's Nuclear Power Program. Under his leadership, AE Works has grown to 100 professionals across two East Coast offices, tackling complex challenges—from reimagining workplaces to modernizing healthcare and research facilities.

Michael also actively supports community organizations. He currently serves as the President of the Veterans Breakfast Club board in addition to business groups, championing veteran and entrepreneur stories. He is a sought-after speaker on leadership and A/E industry innovation.

Inc 5000 Fastest Growing Companies

Zweig Group Best Firm's to Work For

Engineering News Record Mid-Atlantic Top Design Firms

Vetrepreneur Vetrepreneur of the Year

Pennsylvania Small Business Person of the Year

EY Entrepreneur of the Year Service Category Winner

Building Design + Construction Top Ranked Firm for Architecture

Architectural Record Top 300 Architecture Firms

Insights

Michael speaks from the perspective that the built environment is economic infrastructure and that strong regions are built intentionally. He highlights Pittsburgh’s position as a national hub of engineering, research, and emerging technology, emphasizing that the region’s technical and creative talent is a competitive advantage, not a secondary-market story. Where projects are delivered matters. Local procurement strengthens local ecosystems, sustains the talent base, and reinforces long-term regional competitiveness.

He advocates for smarter delivery models, stronger public-private collaboration, and the essential role of A/E firms in shaping communities that are resilient, future-ready, and economically vibrant. In his view, AEC is not simply project delivery. It anchors workforce growth, supports industries from technology to manufacturing, and determines whether regions like Pittsburgh compete nationally by strengthening their internal capacity.

Drawing on experience delivering complex A/E and infrastructure projects including hospitals, universities, federal facilities, and mission-critical environments such as data centers, Michael brings a practical perspective to conversations about modernization. As organizations invest in AI, upgrade infrastructure, and rethink operations, he focuses on what it takes to execute successfully, from early planning and sustainable funding to resilient design and disciplined delivery.

Grounded in national experience but deeply committed to regional strength, Michael connects innovation with real-world implementation and offers a forward-looking message that resonates with owners, operators, public leaders, partners, and emerging talent alike.

Go "Inside the Innovation"

Recent Presentations


  • PSMJ AEC M&A Summit, Navigating Architecture Firm Acquisitions and Sustaining Integration Success
  • Tapas Talk, From the Bottom of the Sea to the Boardroom: How the Navy Shaped My Leadership Journey 
  • AIA Pittsburgh, From Small Firm to Industry Leader: What Pittsburgh Architecture Firms Can Learn from National Growth Trends
  • Community Leadership Course for Veterans, Keynote Speaker

Articles & Press


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