An 18-year veteran of the region’s construction industry is the new partner and VP of operations at a local developer — as its namesake hands over some of the reins.

Bazzani Associates in Grand Rapids has hired Peter Skornia for the senior leadership role.

Partners

Skornia, who joined the firm in June, will oversee construction operations, which means Guy Bazzani, the president and CEO, can turn more of his focus on the firm’s business development and new projects, Bazzani said.

“Peter’s partnership in Bazzani Associates is the beginning of the transition beyond my involvement to a more inclusive environment driven by the entire team,” Bazzani said. “Although I will never retire completely, the firm’s leadership needs to evolve, while retaining our triple-bottom-line approach to business. I am confident Peter will help make that happen.”

Skornia said he initially met Bazzani when he worked for a division of Steelcase interested in sustainable design.

"Guy really got the importance of green building and was the first in the community to adapt it," Skornia said. "We kept in touch, and when an opportunity to be part of the tremendous work he’s doing came about, I welcomed it.

“I understand, like Guy does, the entire cycle from design to construction to occupancy, and I think my addition to the firm will help bolster the Bazzani brand. I’m also excited about continuing Bazzani’s local urban revitalization like the Wealthy Street district. I want to leverage that and continue the legacy.”

Skornia background

Previously, Skornia served as a consultant at Logicbuilds and Steelcase, project manager at Progressive AE and Genesis Building Company and product development manager at Workstage.

Skornia, a Michigan native, holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Michigan State University.

He also co-owns Wyoming Animal Hospital with his wife, Linda Coffman, a veterinarian.