2024 Ones to Watch - Rising Stars: Aksel Solberg,
HFA Architecture + Engineering

“Aksel Solberg epitomizes leadership, adeptly mentoring staff and guiding clients with attentive listening. His fervor for design is evident, coupled with a nuanced understanding of the construction real estate market. A visionary professional, he seamlessly navigates challenges, ensuring optimal outcomes and fostering a culture of excellence.” - James Owens, Vice-President at HFA Architecture + Engineering. 

In the last 12 months what accomplishment are you most proud of? My teams and I have led design efforts on many exciting projects including multi-family developments, cannabis retail dispensaries and commercial mixed-use developments. It always gives me great pride to watch a team succeed after years of strategic guidance and mentorship. I also value every relationship that I’ve built with each client, drawing fulfillment from the personal connections with each one and their words of praise for jobs well done.

How do you balance your rising career with your personal life? A career in the AEC industry is a marathon. Knowing when to take space, disconnect and recharge has allowed me to maximize my impact when I’m ‘on the clock’. I also consistently pursue other passions outside the AEC industry which keeps me energized and eager to practice architecture. Perhaps most important is regularly setting aside time to be present with family and friends, and for reflection on life’s more ethereal things.

Who are the key people in your life that have contributed to your success? I am incredibly fortunate to have had many excellent mentors in life; it is difficult to identify a select few. My parents equipped me with philosophies that are central to my work ethic. My wife, Jenny, has broadened my perspective and made me a better person. My children enlighten me daily. With many mentors from my career, education, sports, boy scouts, spirituality, and philosophy, my success comes from a broad perspective shaped by diverse experiences.

Outside of your career, where else do you seek continuous learning and personal growth? I am constantly pursuing my passion for music as a performing & composing musician in various musical groups and endeavors. My ‘second life’ as a musician has provided me with a multitude of opportunities to gain broader perspective, meet new people, and learn new things. I am also passionate about science and physics, and regularly read scientific journals to stay informed of the latest exciting developments across various fields.