The Greatness Garage Episode 155 - Chris Hawley

In this episode of The Greatness Garage, Brad welcomes Chris Hawley, founding principal of Craftwell Architecture + Construction, a 22-person design-build firm based in Fargo, North Dakota. Chris shares his journey from starting his firm at just 32 years old to leading projects across the Upper Midwest and beyond.

Chris opens up about the lessons he’s learned along the way—the importance of asking better questions earlier in his career, the grit it took to push through sleepless nights in the firm’s early days, and the pivotal role of mentors, family, and community support. He also reflects on the value of building a team like the ’90s Chicago Bulls—where every role matters—and how Craftwell’s philosophy of elevating the ordinary drives their work.

From $40,000 cabins and treehouses to $60 million developments, Chris shows how vision, persistence, and people-first leadership can transform a business. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to grow a boutique firm without losing its soul, or how to balance passion with responsibility, this conversation is packed with wisdom you won’t want to miss.