Leadership isn’t defined by title alone. It’s reflected in how someone earns trust, elevates their team, and consistently delivers for clients.
We’re proud to celebrate eight individuals whose contributions have shaped our practice in distinct ways. Each has been promoted to Senior Associate in recognition of the impact they’ve made — and continue to make — across our firm and our communities.
Marlee Beers, PLA
Since joining SWBR in 2015 after graduating from the University of Maryland, Marlee has steadily expanded both her influence and the reach of our Landscape Architecture discipline. What began as a design role has evolved into leadership, where she guides work across mixed-use developments, affordable housing, urban infill, parks, and K-12 environments. In 2022, she was recognized by the Rochester Business Journal as a Leader in Construction and Real Estate. Among her most meaningful projects: an outdoor classroom for Brighton CSD’s Council Rock Primary School, which she once attended.
“Marlee has reimagined what the practice of landscape architecture can and should be,” said President Tom Gears, AIA. “She pairs creativity with discipline and leads with confidence. Our site design work is more intentional and compelling because of her.”
Becky Maier, PE
When Becky joined SWBR in 2024, she arrived with a clear objective: establish and lead a Civil Engineering discipline within the firm. In short order, she’s transformed that vision into reality. Drawing on experience in utilities, stormwater systems, infrastructure, and construction services, Becky has integrated civil expertise directly into our project teams. Her approach balances precision with partnership — ensuring site performance aligns seamlessly with architectural intent.
“Building a new discipline inside an established practice takes clarity and confidence,” said Gears. “Becky delivered both. She’s created a foundation that fortifies everything we design from below grade to above.”
Tom Thompson
Tom’s path at SWBR embodies steady growth rooted in accountability and foresight. Since joining in 2020, he has advanced from Construction Administrator to Construction Administration Manager, now leading the team. He thrives at the intersection of documentation and execution, where drawings meet real-world conditions. With a Master’s in Project Management, Tom anticipates challenges before they escalate, coordinates diverse stakeholders, and safeguards both design integrity and client investment.
“Tom brings assurance to every job site,” said Gears. “He’s proactive, composed, and committed to delivering exactly what was envisioned.”
Brian Dionne, AIA
Brian joined SWBR in 2016 and has become an anchor within our Housing market. His work is guided by a belief that design should enrich daily life — physically, socially, and emotionally. That philosophy is evident in Elmer Gardens, an all-electric affordable housing community in Schenectady, NY. The recent ribbon-cutting marked not only a successful project completion, but a milestone in Brian’s continued growth as both architect and leader.
“Brian has a strong internal compass,” noted Principal Geoff MacDonald. “He knows when to push forward and when to refine. That judgment is what makes him a leader.”
Kate Stephens
In just a little over one year, Kate has become a steady force within our Interior Design team. Her work brings cohesion to everything from bank renovations and corporate office solutions to complex affordable housing redevelopments, blending beauty with functionality. Kate’s process includes focused listening — distilling what matters most to clients and shaping interiors around those priorities. The results are interior environments that feel thoughtful, grounded, and complete.
“Kate has exceptional instincts,” said Interior Design Manager Diana Kalvitis-Pannone. “She identifies what truly matters to a client and envisions the design around that core. Her work is memorable, compelling, and personalized for every client.”
Gianfranco Pietrantoni, AIA
Since earning his Bachelor of Architecture from Alfred State College and joining SWBR in 2015, Gianfranco has become a trusted guide for complex laboratory projects. He leads institutions through programming, design, and construction — often within occupied facilities where being exact is critical. His strength lies in visualization: translating technical requirements into clear spatial strategies that marry infrastructure and long-term adaptability.
“Gianfranco understands both the science and the space,” said Principal Don Pannone. “When he walks clients through a concept, they see not just what it is today, but how it will perform years from now. Once they can see it, they believe in it — and that momentum carries through closeout.”
Steve Peet, AIA
Steve’s career has grown alongside SWBR. Having joined us in 2008 after earning his Master of Architecture from the University at Buffalo, he’s progressed from emerging professional to project manager, becoming an Associate in 2017 along the way. Within our Housing market, Steve leads with quiet consistency. He understands the firm’s history, standards, and trajectory — and brings that perspective to every project. Clients value his steadiness and pragmatic problem-solving.
“Steve represents continuity and growth at the same time,” said Design Director Rob Fornataro, AIA. “He knows where we’ve been and helps guide where we’re going. His reliability sets the bar.”
Gabriel Guzmán, PE
Gabriel joined us in 2014, already with more than a decade of Structural Engineering experience across California, New York, and Chile under his belt. A graduate of UC Davis with a Master of Science in Structural Engineering, he offers deep expertise in concrete, steel, masonry, and wood systems. Today, he leads structural analysis and design across multi-family housing, commercial, and educational projects. He pairs technical acumen with mentorship, guiding junior engineers while collaborating closely with architects to ensure that structural systems enhance — not compete with — design objectives.
“Gabriel’s leadership is quiet but undeniable,” said Structural Engineering Manager Matthew Weber, PE “He brings value to every project by ensuring safety while serving the design goals with a passion.”
ABOUT SWBR
Founded in 1969, SWBR is a 130+ person, multidisciplinary design firm with four New York state offices located in Rochester, Buffalo, Troy, and Syracuse. We offer professional services spanning Architecture, Civil and Structural Engineering, Landscape Architecture, Graphic Design, Planning, and Interior Design to clients within and across the Higher Education, K-12 Education, Housing, and Workplace market sectors. Every project is undertaken with one goal in mind: to positively impact lives through meaningful design.