About

Our Foundation

T.R. Karrels and Associates, Inc. is a modern architectural design and structural engineering firm located in Oshkosh, the heart of Wisconsin’s New North. We employ an organized and program-driven design process that nurtures commercial and residential architecture projects from concept through construction documentation. During the design process, we put great value on input from the actual occupants and users of the building. When design is complete, we meticulously oversee plan review submittals, bidding and award of contract. During construction, we remain involved and quickly address any questions or issues that arise. We work diligently throughout the entire process to ensure your building meets your needs for years to come.

T.R. Karrels and Associates, Inc. has been serving the Fox Valley since 1990. We began as a structural consultant for architectural firms, contractors and manufacturers. After several years, we expanded our architectural services to encompass more than just structural elements. Soon after, we were serving the design needs for the largest industrial employers in Northeast Wisconsin, and now the majority of our work is serving owners direct.

We pride ourselves on our well-detailed designs, and contractors often regard our plans as the easiest to bid and build from. As our architectural breadth increases, we will continue to adhere to our detail-oriented philosophy – otherwise known as “building it right the first time.”   

Our Philosophy

In our more than 20 years in business, we have never seen two of the same projects. We take great pride in giving each project individual attention and listening to your needs. Our open and informal meeting structure aids our process and gives us a complete understanding of your vision for your project. Our clients have the benefit of working with the same staff from initial contact to project completion and beyond.

As we begin the design process, we listen to input from the operators and users of the building and always work with them in mind. When the design is complete, we oversee plan review submittals, bidding and award of contract. We stay involved during construction and immediately address any questions or issues that arise. Our dedication to each project ensures your building meets your needs for years to come.

Our
Team

Thomas R. Karrels, Professional Engineer and Owner of T.R. Karrels and Associates

Thomas R. Karrels

Professional Engineer and Owner

Tom Karrels is a licensed structural engineer and owner of T.R. Karrels and Associates. Tom has provided structural services and coordinated projects for satisfied clients for nearly 30 years. His typical projects are commercial and industrial buildings of all sizes.

Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (Structural Emphasis)

University of Wisconsin-Platteville
Registered Engineer
State of Wisconsin

John Kieckhafer, Lead Architect at T.R. Karrels and American Institute of Architects Member

John Kieckhafer

Lead Architect and American Institute of Architects Member

John Kieckhafer has more than 20 years of experience in the architectural field. He has been leading projects from initial concept through final construction for most of his career. His typical projects include schools, churches and commercial buildings.

Bachelor of Arts in Architecture
Iowa State University

Registered Architect
State of Wisconsin

Mike Karrels, Architect in Training at T.R. Karrels and Associates

Mike Karrels

Architect in Training

Mike Karrels has been involved in an array of commercial architectural projects since joining T.R. Karrels and Associates. He utilizes current 3-D modeling and rendering software in his projects. In his time away from work, Mike enjoys sailing, cycling, snowboarding and woodworking.

Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
School of Architecture and Urban Planning (SARUP)

Master of Architecture
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
School of Architecture and Urban Planning (SARUP)

Kimberly Becker, Design and Draftsperson at T.R. Karrels and Associates

Kim Becker

Design and Draftsperson

Kim Becker has worked as a draftsperson for nearly 30 years. She is responsible for preliminary design, and working, site and structural drawing production using AutoCAD. Her typical projects include restaurants, offices, industrial facilities, commercial buildings and custom homes.

Bachelor of Science in Architecture
University of Michigan

Amy Behnke

Architect in Training

Amy Behnke has been involved in many commercial, industrial, and residential projects since joining TR Karrels and Associates. She utilizes 3D modeling and Auto Cad software with proficiency. Amy prides herself in being detail oriented, and having an uncompromisingly positive attitude.

Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee School of Architecture and Urban Planning (SARUP).

Lori Bunke, Office Manager and Professional Assistant at T.R. Karrels and Associates

Lorie Bunke

Office Manager and Professional Assistant

Lorie Bunke has more than 40 years of experience in the financial field. Lorie is responsible for office operations and assisting with clerical needs of design projects.

 

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