Paul Schwer

President Emeritus

Paul has solidified his role as an exceptional leader for the last 18 years as the President of PAE. His leadership grew the firm from 39 people in 2004 to a 350+ person Certified B-Corp today. His underlying philosophy is rooted in caring: about people, about the planet, and about ensuring his community can continue making an impact.

Paul has helped to create the most energy and water efficient buildings in the world. His work on high-performance buildings is multifaceted and ranges from corporate high-rises and museums to educational institutions and laboratories. His work includes the Bullitt Center, the Rocky Mountain Institute, and the firm’s new headquarters, Portland’s first and Oregon’s largest Living Building.
Paul and his partners have been selected for a variety of awards in engineering, lighting design, and employee health and well-being. He speaks extensively nationwide and has been an adjunct professor at the University of Oregon and NYU. Paul is a fellow of the International Living Future Institute and currently serves on the Board of Trustees for the Bullitt Foundation. He has been on national juries to select the best projects in the country for Engineering News Record (ENR) and the AIA National Committee on the Environment (COTE). In 2022, The International Living Future Institute named Paul one of the year's Living Future Heroes.

As President Emeritus, Paul will remain active, pursuing passion projects. A renowned thought leader for carbon neutrality, Paul’s passion inspires the creation of a regenerative and sustainable future.

Education

Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering, Bucknell University, Lewisburg, PA

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Certifications

Professional Engineer: ID, MT, NY, OR, WA

US Green Building Council LEED Accredited Professional