Josh attended Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Michigan before moving to Chicago to attend the University of Illinois at Chicago where he received a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture.
As a Senior Project Manager, Josh offers experience across a wide variety of project types. Josh takes on a leadership role for each project he manages by guiding and motivating team members to analyze the design objectives and turn challenges into opportunities. He is a Licensed Architect and member of NCARB.
Aside from architectural endeavors, Josh enjoys spending time with his wife and three boys, assisting in their school sports activities and taking them hunting, fishing, and skiing.
Mike Karkowski, Principal
As Senior Associate, Michael guides our studio of design professionals through all aspects of a project. Michael’s goal is to achieve client satisfaction through consistent communication, collaboration, and thoughtful attention to detail. His approach is intuitive and pragmatic, focusing on the technical aspects of design and environmentally-responsible sustainable design principles. He is a Licensed Architect in Illinois, California, and Florida, and holds a certificate from the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, is a LEED Accredited Professional, and a CSI Certified Documents Technologist. Michael holds a Master of Architecture degree from the Illinois Institute of Technology and Bachelor of Arts from the University of Illinois in Champaign.
Mike spends his free time with his wife and daughter, and has occasionally been seen patching plaster walls in his vintage Mount Prospect home. Now and then, he tries to squeeze in a little late-night hockey.
Heather Manova, Partner | Principal - Operations + Marketing
As Vice President of Operations + Marketing, Heather develops strategic solutions to refine the firm’s business and management principles, architectural practice process, marketing procedures, and contracting obligations. She works with firm leadership to develop department goals and objectives and establishes and implements policies and procedures for effective department operation.
Born and raised in Michigan, Heather received her Bachelor of Business Administration at Northwood University. With over 20 years of experience, Heather sets herself apart through her true devotion to tactical business plans that result in creative approaches to business development and establish a culture of accountability and success.
When not working to develop her knowledge and understanding of best practices, Heather loves to visit museums and art galleries, where she feels that she can build off the courage and expression of others. She enjoys spending time hiking, climbing, and exploring the outdoors with her husband and sons.
Matthew Carlton, Senior Associate
A licensed architect in Michigan, Matt received his preliminary architectural training at Northern Michigan University. He continued this pursuit at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where he received his Bachelor of Architecture. After a few years of real-world experience, Matt decided to continue his education in Denver, and soon received his Master of Architecture from the University of Colorado. As a Senior Project Designer, Matt transforms general design and sketches into design and technical decisions that positively impact document quality. Matt loves spending his free time mountain biking, snowboarding and enjoying Lake Superior.
Ruijie Ma, Senior Associate
Adam Breaux, Senior Associate
Kristina Hill, Senior Associate
Hailing from Maryland, Kristina earned Associate of Applied Sciences degrees in Architecture and Interior Design before enrolling at Morgan State University. There, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and Environmental Design as well as a Master of Architecture.
This experience resulted in an advanced knowledge of construction administration and management. As Job Captain, Kristina is able to wear many hats, making her a critical team member in each project.
Aside from her architectural pursuits, Kristina loves to travel, bike, fish, hunt, and volunteer.
Joel Norton, Associate + BIM Manager
After completing the pre-architecture program at Northern Michigan University, Joel crossed the bridge and finished his Bachelor of Science degree in Architecture at Lawrence Technological University. During his time at LTU, he focused on studying sustainable architecture as well as historic renovation and preservation. He then moved back to Marquette to pursue his career, joining Myefski Architects. Joel possesses an eagerness and drive that makes him an outstanding addition to the team.
In his free time, Joel enjoys renovating with his wife, hitting the trails with their two dogs, and visiting local breweries with friends.
Chris Myefski, Design Manager
Parker Watson, Design Coordinator
Kate Fedoronko, Designer
Michael Lee, Designer
Beatriz Vezzaro, Architectural Fellow
Philip Morath, Architectural Fellow
Iris Cortes, Human Resources + Financial Manager
Originally from Croatia, Iris grew up in Germany where she majored in English and French. After living in North Carolina for four years, she decided it was time for a change and moved to Chicago in 2012.
With over ten years of experience in the administrative field, Iris supports Myefski Architects in the imperative role of Human Resource + Financial Manager. In this role, she leads the firm's human resource management in addition to the accounts payable and accounts receivable needs. A tenured member of the MA team, Iris serves as a key team member in the overall operations of the firm. As a certified Human Resources professional, she oversees onboarding processes, which involves the recruitment, hiring and retention of the skilled and qualified employees at MA.
Being active, traveling, and helping the youth in the community keeps her energized and motivated to tackle life with a positive, can-do attitude.
