The State Building Commission's Executive Subcommittee has selected Robert E. Oglesby to serve as Tennessee’s state architect. The executive subcommittee members conducted interviews since early December for seven candidates who were selected from the original field of 64 applicants.
A licensed Tennessee architect for more than 25 years, Mr. Oglesby has served as president and principal-level designer for EOA Architects in Nashville and, more recently, as the executive vice president of Wiser Company in Murfreesboro. He received his Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Tennessee, where he also studied post-graduate business administration courses.
“I welcome this opportunity and look forward to working with the design and construction community across the state,” Mr. Oglesby said.
“I am pleased with the openness of the process used to select the State Architect,” said Secretary of State Tre Hargett, who is a subcommittee member. “I am confident that Mr. Oglesby will serve Tennessee well while overseeing the building and land projects that supply vital jobs for the state.”
“We had an outstanding group of applicants from more than 12 states and we have chosen a great architect and a great Tennessean,” said Treasurer David H. Lillard Jr., who is also a subcommittee member.
“I look forward to working with Mr. Oglesby to ensure the state’s investments in land and capital projects are done in the best interest of Tennessee,” added Comptroller Justin P. Wilson, another subcommittee member.
Finance and Administration Commissioner Mark Emkes, who is also a subcommittee member, said: “We had many outstanding candidates for this important role in state government, but with a very thorough selection process we were able to find the right person. This is a demanding role, but one that we clearly believe Mr. Oglesby is very well prepared to succeed in.”
“I want to congratulate Mr. Oglesby and welcome him as the new State Architect,” said Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey, a member of the State Building Commission. “He will be an invaluable asset as we work to increase efficiency and save taxpayer dollars on Tennessee's building and land projects.”
The state architect serves as the curator of the State Capitol and grounds, oversees the state’s building and land development projects and develops design standards for agencies. Alan Robertson has served as acting state architect since last June to allow time for a thorough selection process.