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Who We Are

AEC Pathfinders helps firms in Texas struggling with ownership succession plans, leadership succession, strategic shifts, or seeking resilience during uncertain times.

AEC Pathfinders is committed to building resilience, guiding our clients towards a bold, future-oriented vision, and providing insightful guidance through uncertainty. Our mission is to equip AEC firms with the tools to embrace adaptability and innovation, providing creative strategies and forward-thinking solutions that pave the way for generations to come. We are more than consultants; we are partners in building a resilient, adaptable, and visionary AEC community in Texas.

Kirk Kistner: A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation in the AEC Industry

With a remarkable career spanning over 40 years in the AEC industry, Kirk Kistner stands as a beacon of expertise and leadership. His vast experience encompasses ownership succession, strategic planning, marketing, business development, and client-centric innovation planning. Kirk’s journey began in the very heart of the AEC world, growing up immersed in the industry. This deep-rooted connection laid the foundation for his influential role at Bartlett Cocke General Contractors, one of the largest commercial building contractors in Texas, where he ascended to the C-Suite and served on the board of directors for both the construction company and its employee-owned holding companies.

Kirk's impact at Bartlett Cocke has been profound. He has masterfully guided the company through three major management successions, orchestrating seamless transitions at the President, CEO, and Chairman levels. His strategic vision also shaped the succession planning for the Bartlett Cocke Holding Company Board of Managers and the Bartlett Cocke General Contractors Board of Directors, while spearheading the leadership succession and reorganization of the Marketing and Business Development Department leading up to his retirement.

Beyond his corporate achievements, Kirk has been a dynamic leader in industry associations. His leadership roles include serving on boards of the Associated Builders and Contractors South Texas Chapter, Central Texas Chapter, and Texas Chapter, as well as the Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS) Austin and San Antonio Chapters, and the A4LE Southern Region.

Kirk’s commitment to his community is equally impressive. He has contributed his expertise to the City of New Braunfels 4B Economic Development Board, the River Activities Committee, the Comal Independent School District Bond Advisory Committee, the Texas A&M University-San Antonio Foundation Board, the Alamo Colleges Foundation Mosaico Planning Committee, the North San Antonio Chamber Board of Directors, and the Greater San Antonio Chamber Board of Directors.

Kirk Kistner’s legacy is one of visionary leadership, strategic innovation, and unwavering dedication to both the AEC industry and his community. His story is not just about professional success; it's about a lifelong commitment to making a lasting impact on the people and organizations he has served.

Kirk has attained a bachelor’s degree in building construction from Texas A&M University, has achieved his Certification in Professional Services Marketing (CPSM), and is American Concrete Institute Level 1 Concrete Testing Certified.