Teammate Spotlight: Carl Polonchak

October 25, 2024
By: Sara Wolf

What Carl Brings to the Table

Meet Carl Polonchak, the tech backbone of our firm since day one. As our Director of Information Technology, he hasn’t just kept our systems running smoothly — he has guided our company’s evolution through every technological advancement. From the earliest software installations to today’s cutting-edge design tools, Carl’s vision and expertise have been instrumental in keeping us at the forefront of architectural technology.

The Interview

Q: What’s your job title, and what do you do day-to-day? 

A: As the Director of Information Technology, I’m responsible for overseeing the technology infrastructure of our organization. My activities involve strategic planning, team management, and addressing operational IT needs.

Q: What’s your favorite part about your job and our company culture?

A: Growing in my job over the past 35 years at Gilbert has given me a great perspective on helping our people grow and flourish through using technology.

Q: What’s your favorite project or achievement? 

A: Having a hand in building Gilbert Architects from the start. I was entrusted early on at Gilbert to strive for the latest innovative ideas to better our company.

gilbert architects old days

Q: What does an ideal weekend look like for you? 

A: Getting away in my truck camper to the beach or the mountains.

carl camper

Q: What’s the best trip you’ve ever been on and why? 

A: My wife, our dog, and I drove our truck camper across the nation to California, where we spent a month caring for our new grandson. Our journey took us through the lower 48 states to Palm Springs, then up the coast to Lancaster, CA, where we stayed with our son’s family. The return trip through the heart of America revealed the stunning Rockies of Utah and Colorado, followed by the sweeping plains of Kansas. From coast to coast, we witnessed the boundless beauty of our nation – what an unforgettable experience!

carl trip

Q: What’s your favorite food? 

A: Surf and turf

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given, or your favorite inspiring quote? 

A: Always tell the truth.