At GF, we believe that investing in our people is the key to our continued success. As we look ahead to the future, we’re excited to introduce the GF Next Generation (NextGen) 2025 program, an exclusive leadership initiative designed to cultivate the next wave of innovators, decision-makers, and changemakers within our firm.
The NextGen program was first envisioned by GF’s CEO, Keith Johnston, in 2020 and made its introductory launch in 2023. During its initial launch, the Program spanned over 12 months and included 14 participants from various disciplines. They engaged in monthly presentations, one-on-one mentorship, and group discussions led by GF Directors. Through this impactful experience, participants gained a deeper understanding of our firm’s operations, enhanced their leadership skills, and built lasting connections across the firm.
With such a successful first run, GF is proud to continue this legacy of development and connection through a refreshed six-month program that kicked off this April. This year’s program blends virtual sessions on Teams with select in-person sessions, providing participants a more personalized and impactful approach to learning leadership. Our Managing Directors and Directors continue to instill valuable insight into company operations, leadership responsibilities and industry best practices – preparing the next generation of leaders to shape GF’s future.
The 2025 NextGen program features a smaller participant group to foster stronger connections and a deeper learning experience. Alumni from the previous cohort, as well as new additional mentors will play an active role by sharing their experiences and providing support to participants.
This year, we’re proud to welcome our 2025 NextGen participants:
- LaKeisha Manuel-Jones, Accounting Manager, Atlanta, GA
- Sofie Vermeulen, Rollout Architecture, Project Manager, Remote
- Kevin Mahlum, Structural Engineering, Project Engineer, Columbus, OH
- Lucia Taboada, Rollout Architecture, Studio Manager, Mexico
These four team members were selected for their dedication, eagerness to learn and contributions to GF. We’re so excited to see their growth as they embark on this journey.
The program will once again be guided by the leadership of Scott Loikits, Managing Director of Design; Laura Helminski, Managing Director of Myrtle Beach; Dawn Schaffran, Managing Director of Land Development; and Julie Wehmeyer, Studio Director of Chicago. With nearly 100 years of combined experience in the AEC industry, this experienced team brings a wealth of knowledge, mentorship, and industry insight. Their leadership is shaped by years of collaboration with individuals of diverse styles and approaches, and they are passionate about helping the next generation cultivate their own unique leadership voices.
The NextGen 2025 schedule is packed with valuable insights, leadership development, and hands-on learning experiences. Over the six-month course of the program, participants will explore all facets of the firm—from understanding who GF is as a firm to diving into financial fundamentals, proposals, insurance, business development, marketing, and human resources. Along the journey, they’ll develop essential leadership skills with a focus on self-awareness, vision, communication, collaboration, resilience, and integrity.
This program is more than leadership training, it’s a reflection of GF’s commitment to investing in our people and shaping the future of our firm. We’re looking forward to an exciting journey ahead, and we can’t wait to see how this year’s cohort leaves their mark on GF!
