Cromwell Architects Engineers, headquartered in Little Rock, AR, is excited to announce a strategic realignment in leadership and outreach within its Northwest Arkansas regional office, located in Springdale, AR. This transition reflects the firm’s continued investment in the region and a focused approach to strengthening client relationships, expanding market presence, and aligning leadership with long-term growth objectives.
Leading this transition is Cynthia Hawkins, who will step into the role of Regional Director for Northwest Arkansas, effective immediately. A Principal and longstanding leader within the firm, Cynthia brings more than three decades of experience in commercial interior design and nearly as many years shaping Cromwell’s internal and external vision through strategic planning. Since joining the firm in 1993 and becoming Director of Interior Design in 1998, she has played a defining role in elevating design standards, mentoring teams, and contributing to firmwide strategy and growth.
Cynthia’s influence extends beyond project work. She has been deeply involved in initiatives that guide Cromwell’s future, including contributions to Arkansas Governor’s Quality Award applications, serving as Co-Chair of the Strategic Planning Steering Committee, and acting as a liaison to the Board of Directors for internal leadership committees. In her new role, Cynthia will focus on strategic growth and development in Northwest Arkansas while supporting both new and existing clients and overseeing daily office operations.
“I am incredibly honored and excited to step into this role and to work with such a talented and dedicated team,” said Hawkins. “The strength of our Northwest Arkansas office comes from the knowledgeable and experienced people in it. We will accomplish great things together as we grow our presence in this community.”
Her leadership represents a clear alignment of firm experience, vision, and regional opportunity.
Supporting this transition, Shaun Cormack, PE, has been promoted to Regional Engineering Director for the Northwest Arkansas office. A graduate of the University of Arkansas with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Shaun has built a strong and versatile career spanning mechanical design, industrial systems, and specialized work in food processing and oil and gas sectors. Approaching ten years of experience, he has become known for his ability to translate complex engineering challenges into both efficient and practical solutions.
In his new role, Shaun will lead engineering efforts in the region, serving as a direct connection to firm leadership while representing the Northwest Arkansas office across engineering-focused projects.
“It’s exciting to be part of the momentum we’re building here in Northwest Arkansas,” said Cormack. “Being in the office with this team every day, collaborating across disciplines, allows us to deliver integrated solutions for our clients.”
Further reinforcing Cromwell’s commitment to growth, Alex Jackson has joined the team to lead regional business development efforts. A longtime Northwest Arkansas resident, Alex brings a strong background in education and community leadership, along with a proven ability to build meaningful connections across the AEC industry.
Alex holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Education from the University of Arkansas and a Master of Education in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University. Her ties to the region and passion for building stronger communities align with Cromwell’s mission and will play a key role in expanding the firm’s presence and partnerships across Northwest Arkansas.
This strategic realignment positions the Northwest Arkansas office to better serve a rapidly growing region. By aligning leadership across operations, engineering, and business development, Cromwell is strengthening its ability to deliver integrated solutions while remaining responsive to the evolving needs of clients and communities.
“Cromwell’s presence in Northwest Arkansas continues to be an important part of the firm’s broader commitment to building better communities,” said Dan Fowler, President of Cromwell. “With this renewed leadership structure, the firm is positioned to deepen relationships, pursue new opportunities, and continue delivering thoughtful, impactful design and engineering solutions to those who live, work, and enjoy Northwest Arkansas.”
As the team continues to grow, this establishment of strategic leadership is critical to our development and next steps in the region. It positions us to be more intentional in how we serve our clients, more connected to the communities we support, and more aligned internally as we pursue new opportunities. With the right leadership structure in place, we are building a foundation that not only supports our current work but also enables sustained, long-term growth across Northwest Arkansas.
