PlanNorth Architectural Co. of Brenham is among the top 100 companies from around the world selected for the 16th annual Aggie 100, a recognition founded and hosted by the McFerrin Center for Entrepreneurship at Texas A&M.
The recognition honors the fastest-growing companies owned or operated by former students of Texas A&M University. Of these, PlanNorth earned a ranking of 59 with a compound annual growth rate of 39.82%.
PlanNorth co-founders and husband/wife team Ken and Katie Burch both earned degrees from the College of Architecture at Texas A&M. The duo started PlanNorth in 2010 to focus on community-based projects like learning environments, workplaces, worship spaces, and athletic venues.
Since its founding, the firm has grown to 10 employees. Some of their projects include the Washington County Engineering and Development Center, the Hazel Lawson Sports Complex at Brenham’s State Supported Living Center, projects for Brenham ISD, and many churches throughout the region.
“This recognition is such an honor for all of us, especially during the time of COVID when things have been so uncertain. It also is a validation for local-based businesses,” Katie Burch says. “We’ve tried to create a fun, hard-working environment and provide opportunities to do projects that matter."
"Most importantly, we try to lead by example that real life comes first," Burch continues. "The past eight months we’ve certainly had to adapt, but it has allowed us to retain all our employees. It’s a testament to our community that there are small businesses who are growing their teams and keeping their clients even during a pandemic. We are really grateful.”
The 100 Aggie-owned companies with the highest compound annual revenue growth from 2017 to 2019 were revealed and recognized during a live-stream awards showcase on Friday, Nov. 6.
“The Aggie 100 brand represents the most elite group of successful Aggie entrepreneurs, whose endeavors have truly made our world a better place to live," says Blake Petty ‘98, director of the McFerrin Center. "The McFerrin Center for Entrepreneurship proudly embodies the legacy through which our Aggie 100 Honorees can contribute to developing the next great generation of Aggie entrepreneurs."
A complete 2020 Aggie 100 list can be viewed at aggie100.com.
