2026 Ones To Watch - Rising Stars: Kyle Stillwell, Wendel

“Kyle approaches his work with steady focus and a genuine interest in how sites come together, from early concepts through construction. His experience across grading, stormwater, planting design, and detailing reflects a well-rounded understanding of landscape architecture and the role it plays in shaping communities. Since earning his New York license, he has continued to refine his perspective and contribute in meaningful ways, and we are excited to see how his career continues to evolve.”

What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry, and what path brought you to your current role?

My undergraduate degree was in engineering, and my initial plan was to work in the aerospace industry. However, after spending a few years working in that world, I realized that I wasn’t satisfied by what I was doing. I have always had a passion for the natural world. And growing up in Buffalo, surrounded by both good urban design by names like Frederick Law Olmsted, and the urban decay that is typical of many post-industrial American cities, I have always been interested in what can make public spaces better for people and the environment. It wasn’t until I decided to change careers that I discovered landscape architecture and realized there was a path for me to combine my interests with my engineering training in a profession that has a direct impact on people’s daily lives.

What trends or opportunities do you see shaping the future of your industry?

One of the largest movements in landscape architecture right now has to do with stewardship of the natural world. In the face of the global climate crisis, landscape architects are coming up with ways to better integrate the natural world into our cities to address problems such as the urban heat island effect, loss of habitat for native species, and extreme weather events. Another movement has to do with redesigning our cities to focus less on the needs of cars, and more on the needs of people. This includes more infrastructure for walking, bicycling, and public transit, as well was building neighborhoods that provide easy access to things like shops, social spaces, and city services so that they don’t have to travel far when they leave their homes.