Honored by Triad Business Journal
The Triad Business Journal named Rachel Stafford to its 2026 Class of 40 Under 40, an annual recognition honoring 40 professionals under 40 making a meaningful impact in their careers and communities across North Carolina’s Triad region. Rachel, an Associate Principal and Interior Designer at CJMW Architecture, holds the professional designations RID, NCIDQ, and IIDA and is among the youngest appointed to the firm’s Board of Directors.
Rachel joined CJMW Architecture in 2012 and over more than 13 years has risen to become a firm leader and partner. A graduate of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro with a Bachelor of Science in Interior Architecture, she brings deep design expertise across hospitality, senior living, and workplace environments. She has led or contributed to over 16 projects earning 27 local, regional, and national awards.
“Rachel leads with her heart and brings a true service mindset to our firm and our community,” said Kathleen Warner, Principal and President of CJMW Architecture. “She brings both design excellence and genuine care to everyone she works with, whether that is our team, our clients, or our community.”
Rachel’s influence extends well beyond CJMW’s walls, both as an IIDA member for 18 years and by serving eight years on the IIDA Carolinas Board in multiple leadership roles. During this time, she contributed to expanding the organization’s activity and reach, including supporting advocacy efforts that elevated recognition of Interior Designers as licensed professionals—work that played a part in the recent change to North Carolina law establishing Registered Interior Designers. In recognition of her commitment, she received the 2022 IIDA Chapter Service Award. She remains committed to shaping the next generation through guest lectures and portfolio reviews at regional universities and design schools.
When asked about her approach to the unexpected challenges that define a career in design, Rachel reflected: “I am in business with solution makers. Our days are full of things we never expected. It is all about approaching any situation with grace, understanding and an open mind.”
