Past President, Inaugural TCA Fellow, and Recipient of the Peter Courtois Memorial Award

Robert Glen Stephens of Columbia, MD, passed away peacefully on the afternoon of Thursday, May 8, 2024, at the age of 75. Glen was diagnosed with cancer in April 2024 and died of medical complications related to his cancer treatments. He faced his illness with strength, grace, and unshakable faith.

The Tilt-Up Concrete Association honors the life and legacy of R. Glen Stephens, FTCA, whose contributions to the tilt-up industry were foundational and far-reaching. His influence as a leader, innovator, and mentor will endure for generations.

Glen made history as the first architect to serve on the TCA Board of Directors, bringing a critical design perspective to the evolving discipline of tilt-up construction. He later served as president of the Association from 2000 to 2001, guiding the organization through a period of growth and formalization. Glen was a central force behind the development of the tilt-up “trilogy” manuals—resources that continue to define best practices—and he helped to establish the early vision for the Tilt-Up Convention and Expo, now the industry’s most vital gathering place.

Glen was also a member of the inaugural class of TCA Fellows, where he was recognized for his enduring service and professional excellence. In the fall of 2024, at the 25th Tilt-Up Convention and Expo in Phoenix, he received the TCA’s highest recognition: the Peter Courtois Memorial Award. This lifetime achievement honor is reserved for those whose dedication to the betterment of the tilt-up industry is recognized by their peers, and Glen’s legacy exemplifies its spirit.

As someone who was passionate about celebrating the accomplishments of others, Glen was a driving force behind the expansion of the TCA Awards Programs. He believed strongly in honoring the ingenuity and innovation taking place across the industry, and worked to ensure excellence was not only achieved—but recognized.

Through his firm, Stephens Architectural Associates, Glen led the design of hundreds of commercial, institutional, and industrial facilities across the mid-Atlantic and Southeastern US. His work advanced the aesthetic and structural potential of tilt-up construction and helped bring the method into new contexts. More personally, Glen was a committed mentor and generous guide to countless young professionals. Many trace the roots of their careers—and their confidence—to his encouragement.

Glen will be remembered not only for what he built, but for how he made people feel: valued, seen, and supported. His humor, warmth, and faith infused every relationship and every room. He was a true builder of community.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Glen’s family, friends, and colleagues. His loss is deeply felt, but his influence remains present in the people, projects, and programs he helped shape.