Palmer Ferguson, Associate Principal and Architect at CJMW Architecture, was named to Lynchburg Business Magazine’s 2025 Top 20 Under 40. Each year, this recognition honors 20 professionals under 40. They are selected from a competitive pool of nominations spanning diverse sectors and occupations across the region and reviewed by a multi-organization panel.
A Lynchburg native and Virginia Tech graduate, Palmer has worked with CJMW Architecture since 2016, becoming a licensed architect and later advancing to Associate Principal. He has contributed to projects across residential, higher education, performing arts, and hospitality sectors. His experience includes work on projects such as the Academy Center of the Arts, as well as contributions to more than 700 new and adaptive reuse housing units across the region.
“For those who have worked with Palmer, this recognition is not surprising,” said Mike Griffin, Principal at CJMW Architecture. “He plays a key role in advancing our multifamily portfolio while contributing across a range of project types at the firm. He understands both design intent and delivery requirements, managing projects with consistency and professionalism.”
Reflecting on his work, Palmer pointed to the moment when drawings become reality. “You sit with the drawings for hours and work with engineers and contractors for months,” he said. “Then one day it’s done, and someone has a new home. You look back and wonder how it all came together, thank the team, and by the next day, you’re ready to do it all over again.”
