LENEXA, Kan. — Henderson Companies, the parent company of Henderson Engineers and Henderson Building Solutions, proudly announces a strategic evolution of its technology team aimed at expanding its research capabilities, accelerating digital innovation, and strengthening operational excellence. This shift transitions the firm’s technology discipline into three specialized yet connected teams, each led by a dedicated executive, to enable greater focus on core operations while advancing strategic innovation and long‑term research initiatives.
The new technology leadership structure includes:
Dustin Schafer, Head of Research
In his new role as head of research, longtime Henderson leader Dustin Schafer is focused on overseeing Henderson’s research strategy, exploring emerging technologies, assessing long‑range opportunities, and strengthening research partnerships. Schafer, who joined the firm in 2008, has held multiple pivotal roles, most recently serving as chief technology officer.
Aaron Henderson, Senior Digital Innovation Director
Aaron Henderson has been appointed senior digital innovation director, where he will lead development of digital capabilities, product strategy, and long‑term technology solutions that support Henderson’s evolving business needs. His team will collaborate closely with Schafer to advance new technologies from concept through implementation, including the creation of in‑house tools that automate routine tasks, enabling technical teams to focus more on solving complex challenges.
Chris DeLay, Chief Information Officer
As chief information officer, Chris DeLay leads the teams responsible for Henderson’s core operational technology services. Under his direction, IT is focused on delivering reliable, secure, and scalable platforms that empower employees to do their daily tasks most effectively while serving clients. DeLay brings extensive experience in optimizing IT departments for growth and ensuring teams can scale effectively to support the company’s expanding needs.
“As a future‑focused company, we recognize how rapidly evolving technology will shape our growth, innovation, and the experiences of our clients and employee-owners,” said Kevin Lewis, CEO and president of Henderson Engineers and president of Henderson Companies. “While AI is shifting the narrative, there’s also a need to continually refine the tools and processes we rely on every day. With their distinct leadership roles, Dustin, Aaron, and Chris now have dedicated capacity to focus on their areas of expertise to enhance how we collaborate and bring value to our clients.”
ABOUT HENDERSON
Henderson Companies is the 100% employee-owned parent company of Henderson Engineers and Henderson Building Solutions. Henderson Engineers is a national building systems design firm focused on six sectors: business, community, grocery and distribution, health, retail, and venue. Henderson Building Solutions is a national design-build general contractor and commissioning firm that provides a seamless bridge between design, construction, and ongoing maintenance. Founded in 1970 and 2013 respectively, we’re licensed in all 50 states and bring buildings to life through 1,100 employees across our offices in Bentonville, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Kansas City (Lenexa, Kansas, and downtown Kansas City, Missouri), Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Nashville, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix, St. Louis, Tampa, and Washington, D.C. To learn more, visit our websites at www.hendersonengineers.com and www.hendersonbuilding.com.