New Senior Associates Announced
WER is pleased to announce the promotion of Ben Cruce, Betsy Offutt and Jack Reilly to Senior Associates at the firm. “I’m pleased to announce the promotion of three of our Associates to Senior Associate at WER Architects,” said Russ Fason, WER Architects CEO. “Each of these individuals has demonstrated consistent leadership, technical excellence, and a deep commitment to our clients and communities. These promotions recognize both their accomplishments and dedication in their time at WER and the meaningful impact in shaping the future of WER Architects. We’re excited to see their continued growth and leadership.”
BEN CRUCE, AIA / Senior Associate, Project Architect
Ben’s interest in architecture began at a young age working for his grandfather’s construction company. It was there that the importance of constructability and common sense detailing laid its roots, which are still evident in the work he produces today. Ben earned his Bachelor of Architecture degree from the Fay Jones School of Architecture at the University of Arkansas in 2011. In his studies Ben participated in the Camp Aldersgate Design-Build Studio which won the team the John A. White Faculty Student Collaboration Award. He studied abroad in Rome, Italy and was awarded the Hnedak Bobo Group International Design Award for the work done in his Mexico City study abroad studio.
After graduation, Ben joined a local architectural design firm for 10 years where he designed and managed a wide variety of project types including: single family residential, commercial office, retail, medical, higher education, food service, civic and industrial to name a few. Ben became a licensed architect in 2018 and joined the WER team at the beginning of 2022.
BETSY OFFUTT, ASID, NCIDQ, WELL AP / Senior Associate, Interior Designer
Betsy first joined WER as an Interior Design Intern in the summer of 2017, and her success lead to WER offering her a part-time Interior Design Intern position while she completed her degree. In June 2018, Betsy was hired as a full-time Interior Designer at the firm. Betsy graduated from Harding University and earned a B.A. in Interior Design. She is originally from Tulsa, Oklahoma but has become a die-hard fan of the Razorbacks. She loves the challenge of creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces, especially through healthcare and educational design. Betsy’s passion for cultivating her knowledge through art and architectural history compliments WER's goals and brings value to the interior design department. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors and playing sports.
JACK REILLY, AIA, ICC BPE / Senior Associate, Project Architect
Jack is a project architect with over 15 years of experience. His portfolio spans a wide array of projects, from coffee shops and restaurants to medical office buildings and large-scale cultural and sports venues, including the Walton Arts Center, Fred Smith Football Center, and Opera in the Ozarks. Certified as an ICC B3 Plans Examiner, Jack leverages his in-depth understanding of building codes to design with intention and precision. His work is defined by a passion for thoughtful design and a commitment to creating spaces that are both functional and inspiring.
Beyond his practice, Jack is an active advocate for the architectural profession. In 2023, he served as the Section Chair of the AIA Northwest Arkansas chapter, demonstrating his leadership and dedication to advancing the field in his community. With a genuine love for the built environment, Jack continues to engage with architecture on all levels, pushing creative boundaries while honoring the past and future of design.