The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has elevated Principal, Airports Practice Leader Derek A.R. Moore, Ph.D, FAIA, to its College of Fellows—a prestigious honor awarded to members who have made significant contributions to the profession.

Early in his career at SOM, Moore pioneered a distinct role that combines design, technical, and planning to meet the increasingly complex requirements of modern airport terminals and rail stations. Through deep technical knowledge, an architect’s commitment to design excellence, and a humanist’s intent to enhance passenger experiences, he has influenced many transportation projects globally that enhance passenger journeys with locally resonant design. 

Throughout his three decades at SOM, Moore’s work has shaped the form and experience of numerous transportation hubs in the U.S.—from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to Denver Union Station—and in major cities around the world—like Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport and Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. His structured planning process navigates difficult site conditions, exemplifies models of sustainable and efficient design, and above all, creates locally resonant gateways to cities, regions, and countries.