RDG Enhances College & University Practice with Strategic Hire in Madison
Carli Cole, AIA, NCARB, brings experience in higher education planning, design and project leadership.
RDG Planning & Design has welcomed Carli Cole, AIA, NCARB, as a partner in its Madison office, further strengthening the firm's College & University practice. Cole brings nearly two decades of experience focused on helping colleges and universities align academic vision, institutional priorities and the built environment through strategic planning, stakeholder engagement and design.
Known for building consensus and fostering strong client relationships, Cole has led planning and design efforts for academic, health science education, research and campus projects across the Midwest. She works closely with institutional leaders, faculty and project teams to navigate complex challenges and create flexible, future-ready environments that support evolving pedagogy, interdisciplinary collaboration and long-term value.
"Carli leads with curiosity and a genuine desire to understand what matters most to our clients," said RDG Managing Principal, Nate Gieselman, AIA, NCARB. "Her ability to bring people together, build alignment and translate complex challenges into actionable strategies will strengthen our work with colleges and universities across the region."
"I've always believed the most meaningful projects begin by listening," said Cole. "When you take the time to understand an institution's people, culture and aspirations, you create the foundation for better decisions and stronger outcomes. That's what drew me to RDG: a shared belief that thoughtful engagement, collaboration, and design can create lasting value for students, faculty and the communities they serve."
Before joining RDG, Cole played a key role in growing higher education practices, expanding client relationships and leading multidisciplinary teams on complex projects. Her experience includes work for institutions such as Marquette University, Michigan State University, the University of Wisconsin–Madison, the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee and Western Michigan University, with a focus on academic facilities, health sciences education, research environments and campus planning.
Cole earned her Master of Architecture from the University of Detroit Mercy and is an active member of the American Institute of Architects.