This week, we are taking time to recognize and celebrate Steven Drews!

Steve has been involved in the architecture/construction industry since the mid-80s. Before college he worked in the field for Skyline America as a general labor. He graduated with his architecture degree from the University of Illinois Chicago in 1990. After graduating, he worked for a semi-custom home builder. His career continued in the industry including working for a national architecture firm as both a job captain and project manager and a national home builder as the manager of architecture for the Chicago market. His career has culminated at COBU Architecture Studio where he is a project manager focusing on multi-family, industrial, institutional, and commercial architecture.

His list of project types includes single family homes, townhomes, apartments, restaurants, hotels, office buildings, churches, car washes, historic renovations, tenant improvements and more. As one of COBU’s senior staff members, he is always looking to pass on his knowledge to the younger staff. Additionally, he leads by example by striving to complete quality projects on time and on budget.

Steve lives in Wheaton with his wife, son, and family dog.

Besides his family and career, Steve also has a huge place in his heart for hockey. He has been involved with officiating ice hockey for over 40 years. We’re proud to say he has been inducted into the Illinois Hockey Hall of Fame as an official. He is currently an off-ice official for the American Hockey League with the Chicago Wolves. His love for the game has also given him an opportunity to coach. Steve is currently the head coach for the Chicago Special Hockey program…a group of over 100 players. The program provides an opportunity for folks of all disabilities to learn and participate in the sport of ice hockey.

He gives an immense amount of time to pursue his passions in architecture and hockey, but yet finds time to enjoy his family’s lake house in Wisconsin. In any case, slowing down does not exist in Steve’s vocabulary.

Steve is a great asset to any firm, and we are truly grateful to have him on our team!

Steve and his family: