Corey Thiele Named 2026 AIA Nebraska Associate Award Recipient
The AIA Nebraska Associate Awards recognizes an individual for their exceptional leadership and contributions to the profession in the areas of design, education and service in an early stage of their architectural career.
RDG Planning & Design is proud to announce Corey Thiele, Associate AIA, has received the 2026 AIA Nebraska Associate Award. Conferred annually by the AIA Nebraska Board of Directors, the award recognizes an unlicensed Associate AIA Nebraska member who demonstrates exceptional leadership and makes significant contributions to the profession through design, education and/or service early in their architectural career.
Thiele joined RDG in 2022, drawn to the firm’s mission to create meaning together. In his four years with the firm, he has become a stockholder and a trusted contributor in design technology, sustainability, construction detailing and administration, mentorship, community involvement and business development. He also serves on RDG’s Energy Resilience Task Force, helping lead the firm’s annual AIA 2030 reporting and advance emerging energy modeling technology.
“What stands out most about Corey is his natural ability to connect with people,” said RDG Architect and Senior Partner Benjamin Kroll, AIA, LEED AP, NCARB. “Whether working with students, interns, colleagues or clients, he brings energy and sincerity that makes others want to engage, learn and contribute.”
Thiele’s interest in design began in childhood, when he rarely followed instructions and instead preferred to create his own designs. By high school, an introductory design and drafting course confirmed architecture as his future path.
After graduating from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s College of Architecture, Thiele became active in the AIA Nebraska Emerging Professionals Committee, where he helped revive a mentorship program connecting students and professionals. His involvement led to a co-chair role in 2023, and under his leadership, the mentorship program has continued to grow and thrive.
At RDG, Thiele leads a Toastmasters group that includes employees and professionals from Alvine Engineering and Kiewit. He also serves on RDG’s Revit Coaches team, guides summer interns and supports the firm’s involvement with Habitat for Humanity, Open Omaha and the ACE Mentor Program. In 2025, Thiele was one of 12 RDGers selected for the firm’s Career Development Program, which provides deeper insight into strengths-based leadership, RDG’s business and the firm’s role in the industry.