Originally published by the Zweig Group
Overview
Two leaders from Walter P Moore, Katherine Chan and Rucker Simon, have been named to Zweig Group’s 2025 Rising Stars in the AEC Industry list. The annual award recognizes 25 emerging architecture, engineering, and construction professionals making significant early-career contributions through technical excellence, leadership, and community engagement.
Katherine Chan, MSFE
Biography
Katherine Chan, MSFE, is an accomplished project manager and façade design expert at Walter P Moore. She leads with an integrated approach that bridges architecture and engineering to create high-performance, sustainable enclosures. Katherine is a passionate educator at Columbia University and a champion of diversity through her leadership in the firm’s DEI Council. From airport terminals to cultural institutions, she has delivered innovative design solutions globally. Her contributions to academia, pro bono work, and industry advocacy reflect her commitment to equity, education, and design excellence.
Projects & Accomplishments
Façade engineer, Singapore Changi Airport Terminal; Sustainability Pavilion, Dubai Expo 2020; Gilder Center, American Museum of Natural History; Omaha Performing Arts Center, Construction Admin Lead; Honors College, University of South Florida.
Professional & Community Involvement
Adjunct faculty, Columbia University GSAPP; Organizer, IABSE Future of Design Conference; Member, Walter P Moore DEI Council; Partner, Design Advocates (pro bono design initiatives).
Rucker Simon, PE
Biography
Rucker Simon is an accomplished civil engineer and sustainable design leader with 12 years of experience delivering award-winning projects nationwide. Rising through the ranks at Walter P Moore, he has led transformative initiatives in sustainable infrastructure, stormwater innovation, and embodied carbon reduction. His leadership extends beyond projects to shaping firm-wide DEI programs and sustainable design practices. Rucker’s expertise and service have made him a recognized voice in the industry and an inspiring mentor to emerging professionals.
Projects & Accomplishments
Project Director for Houston Methodist Cypress Hospital and MD Anderson South Campus; Led sustainable design initiatives for Memorial Park Eastern Glades; Co-authored Walter P Moore’s Embodied Carbon report (2024); Civil and Water Resources Visionary Award recipient (2018); Team Director for Walmart Home Office Campus development
Professional & Community Involvement
Member, Urban Land Institute Urban Resilience and Sustainability Committee; Member, West Houston Association Sustainability Committee; Co-lecturer at Rice University, Howard University, and University of Pennsylvania; Speaker and panelist at ASCE, Gulf Coast Green Conference, and nature-based solutions workshops.
