JOHN ATCHESON

Integrity. Hard work. And having fun. Those are the principles that John Atcheson has followed in building a thriving commercial real estate career of more than two decades.

These same guidelines have helped lead Atcheson to his current position, president of the Houston and Salt Lake City divisions of ARCO Design/Build. This is no simple job: In this position, Atcheson is responsible for leading company operations and sourcing and executing new opportunities within Texas and other key markets across the United States.

By all accounts, Atcheson has excelled in these duties. ARCO Design/Build has been named the largest domestic builder of distribution and warehouse facilities by Engineer News-Record. Atcheson's leadership has helped the company reach this milestone.

Atcheson's success isn't a surprise. During his career, this industry veteran has been involved in the design, development and construction of more than $1 billion in real estate transactions.

What has kept Atcheson in this industry for so long? He points to the people he's met.

"The best part about the commercial real estate business is, hands-down, the people," he said. "I get to work with some of the best and brightest individuals. Working together on complex projects and developments and figuring out the details from concept to completion is a very rewarding process. Helping grow and expand their business is always a gratifying and exciting experience."

Like all commercial real estate professionals, though, Atcheson has faced challenges throughout his career. Today, that includes dealing with the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain shortages, rising interest rates and a shortage of labor.

"In starting and growing a business, I think anyone will agree that challenges can arise on a daily basis," Atcheson said. "It is all about recognizing those challenges early on and coming up with quick and well-informed solutions. Starting our business, finding the right people, growing our team and recently dealing with a pandemic and supply chain shortages all come to mind. We were able to execute through those challenges and will continue to perform through future ones."

When explaining the reasons for his success, Atcheson points to the importance of following his core business principles.

"Integrity, hard work and having fun," he said. "It really comes down to the basic principles of treating people fairly and doing the right thing. If you want to be successful at anything, you must be energetic and passionate about it. That and surrounding yourself with the right people whether it's your associates, colleagues or clients is a key to success in any business."

Despite his busy career, Atcheson has found time, too, to support his industry and community. He is an active committee member of the National Association of Office and Industrial Properties and a supporting sponsor of the Society of Industrial and Office Realtors.

Atcheson has also provided support for charitable organizations such as the Houston Food Bank and Houston Rodeo. He serves as ambassador for Sky High for Kids, a charitable organization supporting the efforts to find a cure for childhood cancer.

When not working, Atcheson enjoys spending time with his wife, Amanda, and son, Carter. "Spending time with my family and watching my son grow up is one of the greatest joys of my life," Atcheson said.