Act Like an Owner—the Value of an ESOP Firm Structure - 1.0 PDH (LA CES/non-HSW)

Robb is President of Design Workshop, and is known for the high value he places on individuals and teams. From partnerships with communities and clients, to collaboration with design teams, to mentorship of young professionals, Robb leads through respect and trust. He optimizes teamwork, keeping a focus on the distinct needs and opportunities of each project. His two decades in planning and design have given him a deep appreciation of the science and art of the built environment, and a dedication to environmental stewardship and resiliency. Currently Design Workshop has 170 employees across 8 studio.

Based in Los Angeles, Gerdo Aquino is a Principal and Co-CEO of SWA, a landscape architecture, planning and urban design firm working with the public and private sectors in addressing issues of climate change, mobility, community infrastructure and access to open space. Founded in 1960, SWA is one of the first design firms to adopt the ESOP model and has never looked back. Since joining SWA in 1996, Gerdo has been a principal for over 14 years and in the role of CEO of the company for over 12. Currently SWA has over 300 employees and continues to grow.