Terry Wiggers Retires After 40 Years at Schaefer Architecture

Terry Wiggers built a remarkable career at Schaefer Architecture, dedicating decades of his life to both the company and his craft. Over the years—and through leadership transitions, company rebranding, and the completion of many projects—Terry cultivated strong professional relationships, continually honed his skills, and established a lasting legacy defined not only by his hard work and dedication to clients, but also by his kindness, integrity, and deep respect for others.

Now, after forty years, he is ready to pass the torch of leadership to the next generation at Schaefer Architecture. To honor his longevity and celebrate his extraordinary contributions, Terry sat down for an interview to reflect on his career, discuss his many accomplishments, share his hopes for the future, and explore the enduring impact and legacy he leaves behind.

The following is a direct address from Terry:

Schaefer Family and Friends,

It’s amazing how quickly 40 years with Schaefer have gone, and the time is already here for me to retire.

I’m thankful that our Lord has given me the health and opportunity to reach this point in my life’s journey. I am filled with gratitude as I reflect on this incredible journey many of us have shared together!

When I graduated and joined Schaefer in May 1985, I could never have imagined the scope of projects our team would take on, the challenges we would overcome, or the impact we would have on our community. Together, we have built more than just structures; we’ve built spaces where lives unfold, where communities thrive, and where memories are made. That has been—and should always be—the heart of what we do.

You have allowed me the privilege of working on so many remarkable projects throughout my career, but even more than the work itself, it’s the Schaefer “family” and the many professional friends that I will always cherish most. Over the years, I’ve learned so much from each of you—whether it was a fresh perspective, an inspiring idea, or simply the reminder of what’s possible when we work together. I am deeply grateful for the camaraderie and support that have made this firm not just a workplace, but a second home.

I am forever blessed by the love, support, and friendship of my friends and family! My amazing wife, Wendy, has given me much inspiration and the will to be better and excel in my career and personal life… and I can’t wait to share retirement with her!

As I look ahead, I do so with tremendous confidence in the future of Schaefer Architecture. I’ve had the privilege of working with—and seeing—the next generation of leaders grow within this firm, and I know they are well prepared and capable of carrying forward our legacy of excellence, innovation, collaboration, and service to the communities and clients we’ve served.

To our new leaders, I say this: trust your vision, honor our proven values, and know that the foundation we’ve built together is strong enough to support your boldest aspirations and continued success for the firm.

While my role here comes to an end, I will always carry this firm—and all of you—close in my heart. It, and you, are part of who I am! I hope to stay connected and cheer from the sidelines as Schaefer Architecture continues to reach new heights.

Thank you, once again, for 40 years of inspiration, collaboration, and friendship. I am proud of what we’ve accomplished together, and I am deeply honored to have been part of this extraordinary journey.