OUR TEAM
Michael J. Burns, AIA, CID
Michael Burns established Michael J. Burns Architects, Ltd. in 1983 and serves as the point of contact for the Firm’s clientele. With more than 40 years of architectural experience, Mike provides a sensitive and practical project approach. His vast knowledge and experience in Historic Preservation has made MJBA one of the premier firms in the upper Midwest for this sector of work. His preservation expertise encompasses historic renovation, adaptive reuse, roadside developments, exterior restorations, and Historic Tax Act applications. An active member of the Architecture and Preservation community, Mike is involved in the American Institute of Architects Historic Resources Committee, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the City of Fargo Historic Preservation Commission, and the North Dakota Capitol Planning Commission. Along with being a periodic lecturer, critic, and juror for NDSU’s Architecture department, he’s also co-authored, with NDSU Professor Steve Martens, the publication, “Excessive Patriotic Zeal and Other Problems with National Guard Armories Built in Minnesota between the Great War and the Great Depression.”
Kerry Peuser, AIA
A dedicated member of the MJBA team for many years, Kerry’s architectural experience includes programming, building design, restoration, and construction administration. His “design on the fly” approach and ability to creatively reuse existing building materials and elements have shaped many inspiring environments throughout the firm’s history. Kerry’s strongest attributes are his design talent, team coordination, communication, and sensitive and responsible follow-through; not to mention, being the Firm’s master model builder. Also an active member of the Architecture and Preservation communities, Kerry’s involved in numerous professional organizations such as the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and has served as a past president for FM Architects, and past member of Olivet Lutheran Church Council. Kerry has been married to his wife, Susan, for more than 40 years and they have two children, Casey and Kayla. When he isn’t playing tennis, or golfing, he also enjoys camping and vacationing with his family.
Employee since 1989
Ryan Siggerud, AIA
Ryan graduated from North Dakota State University in 2006 with a Bachelor of Architecture and Environmental Design degree. He also holds an Environmental Studies and Political Science degree from Concordia College. Prior to joining MJBA, he worked in the general construction field for ten years. This experience has given him detailed understanding of building assembly, techniques, and sequencing that translates well in the field. Our “go-to guy” for all building code exploration, Ryan possesses a wide-range of knowledge about life safety, universal design, and handicap accessibility. Throughout his career, he has served as Project Architect on several jobs including senior housing, higher education, and adaptive reuse projects. An outdoor enthusiast, Ryan is a skilled hunter and fisherman. He also enjoys camping, snowmobiling, and spending time with friends and family.
Employee since 2006
Luke Gulbranson, Assoc. AIA
Luke’s association with Michael J Burns Architects, Ltd. began as part of our Job Shadowing program during his sophomore year of high school. He continued working as an intern through his time at North Dakota State University, where he graduated from in 2022, with a Master of Architecture degree. Since joining the team full-time after graduation, he has continued in BIM/CAD production and project management and has added support for various technical tools in the office, serving as the Licensed Drone Pilot at MJBA.
Employee since 2017
Betsy Armour
Betsy is the point of contact for marketing and proposals for Michael J. Burns Architects, Ltd. Betsy has more than 20 years of experience in marketing, communications, and public relations. Her background includes integrated marketing for engineering firms, governmental entities, and agriculture. Betsy and her husband, Chris, have resided in Moorhead, Minnesota since 2008, and they have a daughter and a son. In her free time, she enjoys time with family and friends. She also likes capturing nature photographs, walking in the woods, and antique shopping.
Employee since 2023