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This year, CSI welcomed William “Chip” Hayward, FCSI, CCS®, CCCA®, CDT®, to the CSI College of Fellows. He is one of only six distinguished professionals in the architecture, engineering, construction, and owner (AECO) industry named to the 2026 class. He was nominated through a rigorous application process, then elected by the Jury of Fellows for membership, one of the top honors given by CSI. Ahead of celebrating this achievement at the 2026 CSI National Conference, October 7-9 in Phoenix, AZ, we talked with him about his career and becoming a CSI Fellow.
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What does this honor mean to you?
Several of my CSI mentors and advisors have been encouraging me to apply for my CSI-Fellowship for many years. There are so many great leaders of CSI that have obtained this achievement, and it is a great honor for me to be recognized and elevated to Fellowship. It is the pinnacle of my career as an architect to have crossed this bridge.
The AECO industry offers so many paths for professionals to distinguish themselves. What is it about your path that has been so rewarding for you?
Teaching the CDT prep class in the SE Region and for the Tampa Chapter has been a passion of mine for over 20 years. This CSI opportunity has allowed me to share my knowledge, lessons learned, and hopefully has resulted in an improved building industry. This CDT Prep class legacy has allowed me to “pay it forward” and give back to the industry. It is great to hear that folks who have attended our CDT Prep Classes or watched the You Tube Videos that I posted with Don Koppy, CSI CCS® were able to pass the CDT exam.
Do you have a few favorite memories of people or projects you would like to share?
My favorite project is the acclaimed giant replica pirate ship at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, FL. I was given a Super Bowl Ring for my efforts working for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and seeing this iconic ship become a reality. I always wanted to be a naval architect and finally got my chance; however, the ship never left dry dock.
How about anything you wish you had done differently, or barriers you could have avoided in retrospect?
I have been blessed with a great career and have worked with some great people on some great projects. One of the things that Georgia Tech teaches you is perseverance and to not let barriers prevent your objectives. Adapt and overcome. It was a great lesson.
What advice might you share with someone who is considering a career in the AECO industry right now?
Join CSI and get involved in the leadership of your chapter, build a network of trusted advisors and mentors. Many of my CSI contacts are now lifelong friends, and it has been very rewarding to meet and work with and alongside some of the greatest building industry professionals that I know. CSI has a broader base of professional resources that you can solicit and get expert advice from, that will keep you on the right track throughout your entire career.