Architecture firm names three new principals

ST. PETERSBURG — Wannemacher Jensen Architects recently announced the promotion of three employees to principal positions.

The new leaders include:

• Everald Colas, a licensed architect and educator with over a decade of experience. Colas previously practiced in New York City, working on commercial, aviation, multifamily, cultural and institutional buildings throughout the United States, Caribbean, China and the Middle East;
• Erin McGonegle, a licensed interior designer with over 15 years of experience designing residential, higher education, corporate office and municipality projects nationwide. She helps oversee the growth and development of WJA's Interior Design department;
• Harold Somarriba, an award-winning design architect and project manager. Before joining WJA, Somarriba was part of the design team for the new Miami Airport Metro Station. He focuses on large-scale municipal projects at WJA.

Firm principals, according to a statement, share management of the company, including enhanced responsibilities. St. Petersburg-based Wannemacher Jensen Architects was founded 25 years ago and has completed hundreds of notable projects throughout Florida, including some of the most influential projects around Tampa Bay.

“We have assembled some of the best architects and designers nationwide who are dedicated to the success and development of WJA both in numbers and ability,” WJA Managing Principal and President Jason Jensen says in the statement. “It's important that we give talented people opportunity to grow along with the company. This is a natural progression to elevate three leaders into the management structure of the firm.”

Founding Principal Lisa Wannemacher continues to serve in an advisory role and as part of the firm's leadership structure and strategic/visionary planning.