When Dan Fowler joined Cromwell Architects Engineers as a 19-year-old intern, he likely was not thinking about becoming the firm’s future CEO. Like many architecture students, he was looking for an opportunity to learn, gain experience and build the foundation for a successful career.
More than three decades later, Fowler serves as CEO of one of Arkansas’ oldest and most respected architecture and engineering firms. This journey reflects something deeply rooted in Cromwell’s culture: a commitment to investing in people and creating opportunities for employees to grow. After graduating cum laude from the University of Arkansas Fay Jones School of Architecture and Design in 1997, Fowler built his career at Cromwell through a combination of design excellence, leadership and a willingness to embrace new challenges. Over the years, he advanced from architect to firm leader, serving as president for five years before being named CEO in June 2026.
In recent years, Cromwell has more than doubled in size, expanded into new markets, opened additional offices and strengthened its presence across healthcare, education, federal, industrial, civic and commercial sectors.
“Cromwell has always encouraged their people to grow,” Fowler said. “The mentors who invested in me throughout my career made all the difference, and that’s something we continue to prioritize today. We want people to build careers here and plant roots with the firm.”
Rather than following a one-size-fits-all career path, Cromwell encourages employees to pursue roles that align with their strengths and interests. Team members have grown from interns to executives, technical specialists to department directors and designers to market leaders. The firm supports employees who want to explore new career paths, recognizing that the right opportunity can unlock new talents and create stronger teams.
Professional development remains a cornerstone of that philosophy. Employees are supported through mentorship, licensure, continuing education, leadership development and opportunities to work alongside multidisciplinary teams on projects across the country.
As Cromwell continues to grow, Fowler’s journey serves as a reminder that the firm’s greatest investment has never been in building; it has been in people.
SEE THE FEATURE BELOW AND IN THE AUGUST 2026 ISSUE OF ARKANSAS MONEY & POLITICS
