Kerl is an architect currently serving as Director of Planning and Design at the Public Building Commission (PBC) of Chicago, overseeing new and renovated municipal, commercial, and K-12 educational projects for public facilities and infrastructure. He has also served as Deputy Director of Planning and Design and as a Senior Design Manager for PBC Chicago.
Prior to joining PBC Chicago, Kerl was a Senior Designer at Solomon Cordwell Buenz, a Founder and Principal of Atelier Azara Architecture, and a Senior Project Director at Booth Hansen. He has taught at three major architectural institutions in Chicago as an Adjunct Assistant Professor: UIC School of Architecture, Illinois Institute of Technology, and Archeworks.
Kerl joined Openlands’ Board in 2021. He holds several Board positions with community-based organizations, not-for-profit groups, and professional organizations, including the American Institute of Architects – Chicago Foundation, the Chicago Architectural Club, the Chicago Area Runners Association, and the UIC Alumni Association.
Kerl lives in the Goose Island neighborhood. He holds dual B.Arch. degrees in Architectural Design and Engineering Structures from UIC.