Technological Innovation Award – 2016 Small Business Leadership Summit

Technological Innovation Award: Iron Horse Architects

When Virginia McAllister started Iron Horse Architects in 2005, her goal was to create a firm centered on the principles of sustainability, adaptability and longevity. Ten years later, it’s clear that she’s succeeded. The firm has experienced rapid growth, with the Denver Business Journal naming Iron Horse Architects the Fastest-Growing Private Company among small businesses in 2012. Through a slew of major projects like a renovation of the Denver Union Station, Iron Horse Architects has solidified its reputation as a forward-thinking and value-driven architectural and design firm.

Luke McGowan, Head of Public Policy for Thumbtack, Virginia McAllister, Owner of Iron Horse Architects and John Arensmeyer, Founder & CEO of Small Business Majority

Technology has played a huge role in Iron Horse Architects’ growth. Specifically, the company has been a leader in the implementation of Building Information Modeling (BIM), which is a digital capability that facilitates planning, designing, constructing, and managing of buildings and infrastructure. BIM allows for significantly improved project management and results, including increased efficiency, predictability and quality. BIM played a key role in the renovation of Denver Union Station, contributing to millions in savings and keeping the project on schedule.

Iron Horse Architects was an early adopter of BIM, and has been an impressive advocate for broader industry usage. Virginia frequently discusses BIM at industry conferences, and large and international firms ask to partner with Iron Horse Architects on projects because of the firm’s technological expertise.

Iron Horse Architects exemplifies the key role that small businesses can play in bringing new technologies to the market. That’s why we’re pleased to announce Virginia McAllister as the winner of the recipient of the 2015 Small Business Leadership Technology Award.