The Foraker Group

After months of planning and an extensive search using our comprehensive Leadership Transition services, Foraker has helped place Paul Rasmussen as the new Executive Director of the Cold Climate Housing Research Center. Rasmussen’s background as an architect, combined with his construction management experience, will help to further CCHRC’s mission of advancing sustainable solutions for healthy and resilient homes in cold climates.

“Paul’s selection to lead CCHRC reflects the board’s deep care and clear belief in where one of Alaska’s most trusted homegrown institutions can go next,” said Board Chair Griffin Forster. “The housing crisis demands action at a speed and scale we have never seen before. Paul brings the vision, energy, and collaborative leadership needed to help meet that challenge. The board is thrilled and eager to support him as CCHRC builds on its legacy of innovation and continues to advance practical housing solutions for communities across the North.”

When Rasmussen assumes the role on June 15, 2026, he will oversee CCHRC’s building science programs, projects, and research. Rasmussen will also lead fundraising programs, as well as communications and community outreach initiatives. In partnership with the board of directors, Rasmussen will champion and advocate for CCHRC’s mission and strategic initiatives.

“I am honored to serve as Executive Director of CCHRC,” says Rasmussen. “Alaska faces some of the most unique housing challenges in the country, and I look forward to leading CCHRC’s talented team and working with partners across the state to develop practical solutions that make housing more affordable, durable, and accessible for Alaskans. I am excited to bring together my experience in architecture, construction, research, and public service to help address these challenges at scale.”

Rasmussen’s professional experience includes designing affordable housing, working in remote environments, and executing complex projects from concept to closeout. Holding a B.S. in Construction Management from Brigham Young University and a Master of Architecture from Yale University, Rasmussen is a licensed architect in Alaska and New York, with work experience in Nevada and Texas as well.

CCHRC is a nonprofit organization committed to pioneering sustainable housing solutions in some of the world’s most challenging environments. Located in Fairbanks, Alaska in the world’s northernmost LEED Platinum building, CCHRC was formed in 1999 by members of the Alaska State Home Building Association to tackle the challenges of building in cold climates, including remote locations, harsh working conditions, and unstable ground.