Tom Marschner joined PGAV Destinations, a global leader in the planning and design of unique destinations, in 2005. He has led multiple projects, designing new and innovative animal habitats, renovating existing facilities and creating educational experiences for guests. Passionate about zoos and aquariums, Marschner says: “One of the greatest rewards is seeing animals utilize and be enriched by a space that you have worked so hard to design specifically for their wellbeing.”
Marschner was named vice president of PGAV in January 2023. “I have dedicated my career to working closely with our zoo and aquarium partners and PGAV colleagues to create world-class habitats and guest experiences. As vice president, I am excited to be able to expand and continue that work,” he said.
“Tom’s new role will enable us to continue to build our portfolio of zoo and aquarium projects as we continue to tackle large-scale resort, entertainment, attraction, and mixed-use projects both in the U.S. and abroad,” said PGAV Destinations CEO Mike Konzen.
As a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), Marschner has presented many times, inspiring other members with presentations of PGAV projects in-design. He maintains relationships with clients such as Georgia Aquarium, San Antonio Zoo, and Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, also leading successful projects such as the Heart of Africa region at Columbus Zoo. One of his biggest recent projects was the ‘Sharks! Predators of the Deep’ gallery at Georgia Aquarium.
“It all started with Legos,” Marschner said when explaining his love of architecture. “Seeing an entire project, from the conceptual ideas all the way to the completion of construction is what I really enjoy. Experiencing all the challenges that come with that process is when my true colors start to shine.”
“Each destination has its own challenges and adding animals to this mix makes the projects even more rewarding,” he said.