Announcements March 11, 2026

Our Digital Innovation Team Proudly Includes Two AIA Fellows

In a time of ever-evolving technology, our industry requires steady leadership and bold innovation. Perkins&Will’s Digital Practice team is leading the way, translating digital innovation into real-world impact across the AEC industry. Today, we’re proud to introduce Nick Cameron and Charlie Portelli, recognized by the AIA College of Fellows for their outstanding contributions to architecture through excellence in digital practice. Fewer than 3% of AIA members have earned this distinction. Learn more about Nick and Charlie below.

Nick Cameron

Nick Cameron, FAIA
Chicago, Illinois

Nick Cameron’s foundation as an architect shapes the way he leads digital innovation within the firm. As a Principal and Director of Digital Practice, he approaches technology not as a parallel discipline, but as an integral extension of design capable of elevating creativity, streamlining collaboration, and strengthening project delivery. In his role, he works alongside design teams to refine processes, enhance precision, and help bring ideas to their fullest potential.

Much of today’s practice depends on sophisticated technology, but Nick is more inspired by the tangible, human outcomes it enables. The result is never just data or code, but a space that supports a child’s learning, advances patient wellness, or transforms how people work. For Nick, digital practice is ultimately about perfecting the process behind the scenes to amplify the meaningful outcomes architecture can achieve.

“Architecture is a team sport,” says Nick. “There’s not one person in the room who has the best idea. The best idea is found through working together and looking in unlikely places.”

Charlie Portelli

Charlie Portelli, FAIA
New York, New York

Charlie Portelli is passionate about bridging the gap between design process and built outcome. He pairs hands-on construction knowledge with advanced computational methodologies, translating digital innovation into real-world impact across the AEC industry. He brings deep expertise in computational design, with particular strength in resolving and documenting complex facade systems.

As a Senior Associate and Digital Innovation Strategist in Perkins&Will’s I/O group, Charlie positions 3D models and project data as central drivers of design and delivery strategy. His work helps teams leverage computation not just as a tool, but as a framework for decision-making and performance optimization.

Charlie also teaches Environmental Parametrics at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute’s Center for Architecture Science and Ecology (CASE), where he integrates parametric modeling, optimization, and daylighting analysis to inform design outcomes. He has previously taught and guest lectured at Pratt, New York City College of Technology, and MIT.

“I have a strong interest in exploring new methodologies that link computation, design, and fabrication,” says Charlie. “For me, the power of computation isn’t just in generating form—it’s in demystifying complexity. When models, data, and fabrication logic are aligned from the outset, we can resolve complexity earlier, enhance collaboration, and deliver better-performing buildings.”