GMB aquires Richard L. Johnson Associates, expanding its reach in educational architecture and engineering
GMB, a professional services firm focused on the education market, is thrilled to unveil the acquisition of Richard L. Johnson Associates. This acquisition represents an exciting new chapter for Richard L. Johnson Associates and GMB as we combine our experience, knowledge, and passion for providing the very best in educational architectural and engineering services.
Expanding Education Design Expertise Across the Midwest
By combining GMB’s strong foundation in education design services with Richard L. Johnson Associates’ deep understanding of the local market, we are building a team that is both nationally connected and locally grounded. This partnership allows us to bring the depth and breadth of national education best practices while remaining closely attuned to the unique needs of individual districts and communities.
"We are excited to welcome Richard L. Johnson Associates’ team and clients to GMB,” said David Bolt, President and CEO of GMB. “This acquisition brings together the strengths of both organizations, enhancing our collective capabilities and allowing us to create an even greater positive impact. By working as one team, we’ll be able to deliver more innovative solutions, support districts in reaching their goals, and ultimately improve the educational experience for students across the Midwest.”
A Partnership Rooted in Local Knowledge and National Reach
Richard L. Johnson Associates, based in Rockford, Illinois, will continue serving more than 30 school districts in Northwest Illinois.
Scott Johnson, one of Richard L. Johnson Associates’ firm principals, has expressed excitement that clients will benefit from GMB’s additional in-house capabilities and educational design knowledge.
“I am very proud to be a part of this strategic acquisition,” said Johnson. “By combining our expertise in K-12 education, higher education, and broad experience in educational design, we’re building a full-service team that can collaborate across geographies and provide long-term value for our clients.”
The Richard L. Johnson Associates team will become part of GMB's Team of Teams structure, which encourages autonomy and responsibility over the traditional hierarchical business model. GMB is also a 100% employee-owned company.
About GMB
At GMB, everything we do is immersed in the world of education and the opportunities it creates. By designing environments, brands, and experiences that spark joy, identity, and community connection, we are helping institutions solve complex challenges and build stronger futures. From buildings to brands and beyond, our integrated team serves transformational educators across the United States from our six learning hub locations in Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, and South Carolina. Learn more at www.gmb.com.
About Richard L. Johnson Associates
At Richard L. Johnson Associates, we place emphasis on the success of the team approach by involving our clients in the decision-making process. We view it as our responsibility to elicit input for ideas and alternatives that will be used with our skill and technology to develop the project designs that meet our clients’ needs. Working with our clients to provide them with innovative design solutions for their specific needs is our highest priority. Learn more about our projects and process at www.rljarch.com.