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TowerPinkster Names Director of Building Science

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Jill Overacker, M.A.
Manager of Marketing + Communications

TowerPinkster, a full-service design firm, proudly announces the promotion of Kelsey Groesbeck, PE, to the role of Director of Building Science. The Building Science team provides expertise and strategies to reduce energy use and optimize holistic building solutions. This process evolves through energy modeling, daylighting and comfort studies, envelope design, water and carbon analyses, certification administration, incentive programs, commissioning, and a comprehensive design process. The advancement reflects TowerPinkster’s ongoing commitment to client service, responsible design, and environmental stewardship.

“We are thrilled to have Kelsey grow and lead our Building Sciences team,” said Björn Green, President and CEO of TowerPinkster. “Her depth of knowledge and passion for sustainable design aligns with the firm’s commitment to delivering innovative, environmentally conscious solutions for our clients and communities. Kelsey’s expertise will further elevate the firm’s capabilities and reinforce our position as a leader in design excellence and sustainable creativity.”

A professional engineer, Groesbeck joined TowerPinkster in 2014. She serves as chair of the firm’s sustainability committee and has been instrumental in the implementation of innovative technology solutions such as cove.tool and envelope analysis. A recognized leader, she has presented at numerous industry events including the NetZero Build Summit and AIA’s Committee on the Environment. Groesbeck is a member of USGBC West Michigan, West Michigan ASHRAE, and the West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum, among other organizations. She was recently invited to join the Commercial Building Climate Advisory Team (C-CAT) for the City of Grand Rapids. In 2023, Groesbeck received national recognition as a ‘Rising Star in the AEC Industry’ by Zweig Group. Groesbeck received her Bachelor’s and Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Western Michigan University. She holds advanced accreditations including LEED AP BD+C and Living Futures Accreditation (LFA).

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“I am excited about the opportunity to grow our Building Science team here at TowerPinkster,” said Groesbeck. “Building Science is our strategic approach to design where all disciplines play a role in achieving sustainable outcomes. We understand the positive impact early collaboration and innovation can have in creating enduring and ecologically conscious buildings and spaces.”

TowerPinkster has long been a leader in sustainable design. Since 2006, the firm has donated more than $1.3 million back to clients and communities through the federal EPAct program which incentivizes building owners to implement energy-efficient measures in their facilities. The firm’s Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids office locations were the first design firms to achieve LEED and LEED Platinum certifications for sustainable design. Most recently, Aquinas College’s Albertus Magnus Hall of Science was recognized as the ‘Green Building of the Year’ by the USGBC Detroit Regional chapter. The firm’s work on the renovation of Western Michigan University’s historic Heritage Hall was recognized by ASHRAE, a global society of building engineers, with the International Award of Engineering Excellence.