David Chase, Assoc. AIA

David Chase (formerly Cordaro) is a strategic operations leader and architectural advocate serving as the Director of Operations and Editor of Chicago Architect magazine at AIA Chicago. Bridging the worlds of design and storytelling with operational excellence, David leverages his formal architectural training and professional experience to drive organizational performance and amplify the voices and achievements of architects.

Since joining AIA Chicago in 2021, David has spearheaded transformative organizational systems improvements. This includes pioneering the adoption of the organization’s first CRM and project management platforms, along with developing data integration strategies now adopted by other AIA chapters nationwide. His strategic approach also led the development of a new website that came in under budget while increasing traffic. David’s editorial leadership has expanded Chicago Architect magazine’s reach, earning the organization a Gold Award from the American Society of Business Publication Editors in 2025.

David’s background combines technical and leadership expertise. Prior to AIA Chicago, he practiced at Jahn, where he led the office-wide transition to REVIT and developed comprehensive staff training programs. He further demonstrated his dedication to building future talent at the Chicago Architecture Center, directing the Teen Fellows Program to create pathways for high school students into architecture and design.

David holds a Bachelor of Architecture with distinction from Iowa State University and is currently pursuing an MBA at the Indiana University Kelley School of Business.