Diane Lochner
Principal
PGAV
Diane Lochner began her career as an intern at PGAV, a global leader in the planning and design of unique destinations, and her unwavering curiosity and strong work ethic propelled her to the position of principal.
From early on, she realised her unique strength: turning complex histories and scientific ideas into emotional, multi-sensory experiences that make every guest feel recognised. While many stick to black-and-white solutions, Diane excels in the grey areas, demonstrating that our way of communicating ideas is just as important as the ideas themselves.
When Lochner graduated from Ohio State University in 1992 with a master’s in architecture, she entered a field where women made up less than 30% of new professionals. "But Diane didn’t just break through that glass ceiling; she rebuilt it with accessibility ramps, immersive storytelling, and a generation of women climbing behind her," said one nominator.
"In an era when empathy was dismissed as 'soft', Diane doubled down on her strengths: listening, patience, collaboration, and an uncanny ability to anticipate guest needs before they do. She came of age just as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was reaching compliance mandates, and her advocacy became legendary. She championed ADA compliance that exceeded standards. She mentored young women with a generosity that reshaped the firm’s culture."
She has worked on projects with a wide range of leading attractions, including Smithsonian’s Air and Space Museum, Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, the Conner Prairie Interactive History Park, and Fort Ticonderoga (innovating youth engagement)
But beyond her projects, her true legacy lies in her multiplier effect. By advocating for women, accessibility, and heartfelt storytelling, she has not only created attractions but also reshaped industry norms and set new standards for leadership.
Speaking about the firm's 60th anniversary in 2025, Lochner said:
“PGAV stays true to who we are, while embracing the freedom to reinvent and think boldly. The lessons of the past 60 years fuel our drive to imagine what’s next and to shape the innovations that will define the next 60."
