2025 marks LAN’s 60th year of providing architecture and engineering services that shape communities. To mark this milestone, we are reflecting on our journey through LAN’s 60th Anniversary Webpage, which highlights the people who have driven the company forward as well as the major projects and milestones that have defined our growth and continue to inspire our future.

2025 marks LAN’s 60th year of providing architecture and engineering services that shape communities. To mark this milestone, we are reflecting on our journey through LAN’s 60th Anniversary Hub. It highlights the people who have driven the company forward as well as the major projects and milestones that have defined our growth.

Join us as we celebrate and highlight our history, honoring the people, projects, and milestones that have shaped the company over the past 60 years and continue to inspire our future.

60

Years of Experience

$250M

in Construction Each Year

130+

Professionals On Staff

11

Disciplines/Services

60

Years of Experience

$250M

in Construction Each Year

130+

Professionals On Staff

11

Disciplines/Services

60

Years of Experience

$250M

in Construction Each Year

130+

Professionals On Staff

11

Disciplines/Services

Shaping Communities, Decade by Decade

Celebrate LAN Associates’ legacy of design and innovation with a look at our Projects Through the Decades. This showcases landmark projects that reflect our growth, expertise, and lasting impact on the communities we serve. Explore how our work has evolved over the years, shaping the built environment with creativity, collaboration, and vision.

Shaping Communities, Decade by Decade

Celebrate LAN Associates’ legacy of design and innovation with a look at our Projects Through the Decades. This showcases landmark projects that reflect our growth, expertise, and lasting impact on the communities we serve. Explore how our work has evolved over the years, shaping the built environment with creativity, collaboration, and vision.

Ken Karle
Ken KarleSenior Vice President | LAN Associates
"Those years at LAN were more than just projects and deadlines; they offered a front-row seat to the birth of a digital era, where every challenge carried the thrill of building the future one cable, one circuit, and one bold idea at a time."
Robert Salmanowitz
Robert SalmanowitzJob Captain | LAN Associates
"When I started at LAN, there were around 30 employees; now there are 130! I’ve seen so many other things, like staff and their kids grow, attended huge milestone anniversary dinners, and watched LAN thrive."
William Hodges
William HodgesSenior Associate | LAN Associates
"True collaboration means fostering an environment in which asking questions is encouraged, support from your peers is unwavering, and those with the knowledge and expertise are willing to mentor the next generation."
Beth Bouvier
Beth BouvierSenior Associate | LAN Associates
"I received numerous chances to learn, grow, and take the lead on projects, which helped me excel in my career, and now I work to pay forward the support and confidence my colleagues showed me early on."
Ron Schwenke
Ron SchwenkeVice President | LAN Associates
"Joining LAN has created a new chapter in my career path, one which far exceeded my own expectations and has allowed me to grow as a professional in ways I could not have previously imagined."

Tracing the Steps That Built Our Legacy

From our earliest beginnings to the milestones that shaped us, our story has always been one of steady growth, dedication, and resilience. Each chapter represents not just what we accomplished, but also how we adapted, evolved, and stayed true to our values. This timeline captures the key moments that built the foundation of who we are today.

1965
LAN Associates is Founded

John Lacz founds LAN Associates, a small engineering and planning firm, located in Paterson, NJ. Specializing in mechanical engineering, the firm had a staff of three: Mr. Lacz, a part-time draftsperson, and a secretary.

1970
LAN Associates Expands and Relocates to Hawthorne, NJ

As LAN begins to establish a reputation and gain success, Mr. Lacz seizes the opportunity and sets his sights on growth. LAN experiences its first major staff expansion and relocates its office to Hawthorne, NJ.

1978
Development of LAN's Early Leadership

In 1978, Ken Karle joins LAN. As both a registered architect and engineer, Ken is part of a select group of only 1% of industry professionals with both qualifications. His background played a major role in LAN expanding the services it offered to include architecture.

1983
First School Bond Referendum

This 1983 project marks a turning point that set LAN down the path for educational facility design work. In partnership with Mamaroneck Union Free School District in New York, this $3.3 million school bond referendum focuses on emergency repairs. Since then, with over $1 billion in school bond referenda completed, LAN has solidified its reputation as the go-to firm for educational projects. 

1983
Shaping LAN's Leadership

LAN’s current CEO, Ronald Panicucci, and Senior Vice President and Company Secretary, Stephen Secora, join the firm. Their contributions would be a defining factor in LAN’s growth over the next 40 years.

Projects That Shaped LAN’s Growth

1980's - 1990's

How Has Communications Evolved at LAN?

Past

When LAN opened its doors, constraints of the technology limited the speed of communication with clients and contractors. Waiting for the mail to be delivered could dictate project progress and client communication. Not everything can be done over the phone, and project timelines had to account for slower exchanges of information, requiring more advanced planning, greater attention to detail in each correspondence, and patience awaiting client feedback before moving forward.

Now

Today, LAN communicates digitally with clients, making the process faster and more efficient. Everything from project renderings to schematic plans can be easily updated and shared almost instantaneously. With the widespread use of email and cell phones, clients and colleagues are now just a message or call away, removing the delays that once slowed progress. The rise of digital information avenues and social media has transformed LAN’s ability to showcase its work and reach out to potential clients.

Past

When LAN opened its doors, constraints of the technology limited the speed of communication with clients and contractors. Waiting for the mail to be delivered could dictate project progress and client communication. Not everything can be done over the phone, and project timelines had to account for slower exchanges of information, requiring more advanced planning, greater attention to detail in each correspondence, and patience awaiting client feedback before moving forward.

Now

Today, LAN communicates digitally with clients, making the process faster and more efficient. Everything from project renderings to schematic plans can be easily updated and shared almost instantaneously. With the widespread use of email and cell phones, clients and colleagues are now just a message or call away, removing the delays that once slowed progress. The rise of digital information avenues and social media has transformed LAN’s ability to showcase its work and reach out to potential clients.

1990
LAN’s Architecture Department Established

To meet the needs of a growing client base and a diversifying project portfolio, LAN formally establishes its architecture department. Beginning with a handful of staff, including LAN’s now Senior Vice President, Ken Karle, the department has expanded exponentially to have over 50 members.

1996
Ken Karle was Named President

One of LAN’s earliest and most influential leaders, Ken Karle, is named LAN’s second President. Both a Registered Architect and Engineer, Mr. Karle, would oversee major expansions at the company. 

1999
LAN Opened a New Office in Goshen, NY

Led by Senior Vice President, Michael McGovern, a small group of New York natives who had been commuting to LAN’s headquarters in NJ, take a chance on opening a new office in Goshen, New York. The move proved a success, and today that office employs more than 30 people.

Projects That Shaped LAN’s Growth

2000's - 2010's

How Has Drafting Evolved at LAN?

Past

In its early years, LAN’s drafting process was entirely manual. Architects and engineers relied on pencils, vellum, and Mylar to create drawings by hand. Every detail had to be precise since revisions meant reworking large portions of the design, and preserving the integrity of archival plans required meticulous care.

Now

Today, LAN utilizes advanced Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software and Building Information Modeling (BIM) to create accurate, detailed, and dynamic project drawings. These tools not only streamline the drafting process but also allow for better collaboration, quicker revisions, and more comprehensive project visualization.

Past

In its early years, LAN’s drafting process was entirely manual. Architects and engineers relied on pencils, vellum, and Mylar to create drawings by hand. Every detail had to be precise since revisions meant reworking large portions of the design, and preserving the integrity of archival plans required meticulous care.

Now

Today, LAN utilizes advanced Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software and Building Information Modeling (BIM) to create accurate, detailed, and dynamic project drawings. These tools not only streamline the drafting process but also allow for better collaboration, quicker revisions, and more comprehensive project visualization.

2001
LAN Relocated the Main Office to Midland Park, NJ

Another significant staff expansion in New Jersey prompts LAN to move its headquarters to Midland Park, NJ. Originally a historic silk mill, the building with its exposed brick and industrial character became a symbol of the region’s past. Today, that same location is home to more than 70 employees.

2001
LAN was Awarded Employer of Choice from the Employers Association of NJ

LAN wins the Harold R. Hawkey Employer of Choice Award from the Employers Association of NJ. This honor highlights LAN’s commitment to a strong workplace culture and employee satisfaction.

2003
LAN was Named Top Design Firm by ENR

For the first time, LAN is named a Top Design Firm by Engineering News-Record (ENR), a proud moment that reflected the dedication and talent of its people. This honor demonstrates the years of progress and inspires the team to continue reaching new heights. LAN has continued to earn a place on this prestigious list year after year, a testament to the firm’s enduring commitment to excellence.

2004 – 2007
Departments by Discipline Formalized

After years of natural expansion into various architecture and engineering disciplines, LAN formalizes departments for Civil Engineering, Environmental Services, Land Use, Environmental Health & Safety, Surveying, and Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Engineering. 

2011
LAN Earned Another National Award from the Zweig Group

LAN is recognized by the Zweig Group as one of their Hot Firms, marking another national award the firm has received. It placed LAN among the fastest-growing firms in the architecture, engineering, and construction industry, showcasing the company’s expanding impact and reputation on a national stage.

2014
LAN Established its Marketing Department

LAN launches its first-ever Marketing Department to strengthen brand presence, enhance communications, and support strategic growth initiatives. Dedicated resources strengthened LAN’s brand, communications, and growth strategy, laying the groundwork for its future industry presence.

2015
LAN Celebrated its 50th Anniversary

LAN returned to its roots where it was founded in Paterson, NJ to celebrate its 50th anniversary at The Art Factory. The event brought together several generations of LAN’s leadership alongside staff, clients, media, and guests. The event was more than just a celebration of half a century of architectural and engineering work; it honored the people and partnerships that shaped LAN’s journey.

2017
LAN's Philadelphia Office Opened in Center City

LAN opens its Philadelphia office in Center City to expand its services into Pennsylvania and South Jersey. The office was first launched with a team of two architects.

2017
LAN Named Top Workplace in NJ by North Jersey Media Group

LAN is named a Top Workplace based on an employee survey facilitated by North Jersey Media Group. The award came shortly after LAN’s corporate culture department was founded.  

Projects That Shaped LAN’s Growth

2010's - 2020's

2020
Southern New Jersey Presence Restructured

The Philadelphia office moves and expands into two new locations: Voorhees, NJ, and a satellite office in Bethlehem, PA. This strategic move not only reflects LAN’s growth but also strengthens its ability to build lasting relationships and deliver projects across a broader footprint in the region.

2021
LAN Opened New Office in Vernon, NJ

LAN has opened a new office in Vernon, New Jersey, dedicated exclusively to providing professional surveying services. This expansion supports growing client demand and enhances the firm's regional presence.

2023
LAN was Named to Zweig Group’s Annual Hot Firms List

LAN is again recognized by Zweig Group, highlighting its continued growth and industry recognition. The Hot Firm award marks another milestone in LAN’s evolution into a respected leader committed to excellence and long-term impact.

2023
LAN Named Tom Wighard the New President

Tom Wighard, a Registered Architect and Engineer, becomes the third President of LAN Associates. Starting as an intern, he rose through the ranks, gaining a deep understanding of what drives the company’s success.

2024
LAN Goshen, NY Office Celebrated its 25th Anniversary

LAN’s Goshen, NY office celebrates 25 years of service, marking a milestone in growth and community impact. Through decades of innovative projects, lasting client relationships, and meaningful contributions to the region’s development, the Goshen office has made significant strides in the past quarter-century and looks forward to continued success moving forward.

2025
LAN Celebrates its 60th Anniversary

In 2025, LAN Associates celebrates 60 years of service, highlighting the firm’s growth, innovation, and commitment to its clients. Over the past decades, LAN has embraced innovation, expanded its expertise, and stayed true to its mission of delivering solutions that shape communities and improve lives.

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