As Origin Design continues into 2026, the firm is pleased to announce several organizational leadership promotions that reflect its continued growth, investment in people, and commitment to serving clients with excellence.
Mark Fassbinder, AIA, LEED AP, has been promoted to Architectural Team Leader for Origin Design’s Dubuque office. A Senior Designer with the firm, Mark has consistently demonstrated strong leadership, technical expertise, and a commitment to quality design.
In addition to this promotion, Mark was recently honored with Origin Design’s seventh annual Waugh Award, presented during the company’s annual holiday party held on January 9, 2026, at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium.
The Waugh Award was established in honor of Origin Design (known as IIW at the time) co‑founder Dennis Waugh, who retired at the end of 2018 after 37 years of dedicated service. The award recognizes an employee who exemplifies and advances Origin Design’s Mission, Vision, and Values.
Mark accepted the award from Pat Ready, PE, President & CEO of Origin Design, who shared: “Mark is someone who lives Origin Design’s Mission, Vision, and Values—not just in words but through everyday actions. His commitment to doing the right thing, delivering excellence, building strong relationships, and thinking beyond the expected is evident across every project, every interaction, and every challenge he faces.”
To further enhance leadership, collaboration, and client service, Origin Design has combined its Transportation and Municipal teams. This newly unified team will be led by Katrina Hecimovic, PE, who has been promoted to Transportation & Municipal Team Leader. Katrina has demonstrated strong leadership skills, technical knowledge, and a deep commitment to quality. In this role, she will guide the combined team in delivering integrated solutions that meet the evolving needs of public‑sector clients.
Jack Edens has been promoted to IT Team Leader, where he will provide leadership for Origin Design’s growing technology team. Jack’s promotion reflects his technical expertise, collaborative approach, and ability to support the firm’s operational needs. Origin Design is confident the IT team will continue to thrive under his leadership.
Rounding out the leadership promotions is Gabe Bonn, PLS, who has been promoted to Land Survey Team Leader. Origin Design’s Land Survey team offers a full range of surveying services for public and private clients, supporting projects from planning and design through construction and structural monitoring.
The team works on projects of varying scales and complexity, including roads, railways, bridges, site development, subdivisions, and buildings. Gabe brings a strong set of leadership qualities and technical experience that will further strengthen the Survey team and enhance client service.
These leadership promotions reflect Origin Design’s commitment to recognizing talent, fostering professional growth, and building strong teams to better serve clients. As the firm looks ahead to 2026 and beyond, these leaders will play a vital role in shaping Origin Design’s continued success.
