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Strictly Business: Episode 34

The Art of Scaling

November 26, 2025 | 11 AM CT | Free Virtual Event

Featuring Jerry Hebert & Patrick Bernhard

CEO, Grace & Managing Director, Bernhard Capital Partners

Scaling a business is part vision, part execution—and all about people. In this episode of Strictly Business, two of Louisiana’s top growth-focused leaders sit down to discuss what it really takes to scale with purpose. From multimillion-dollar design projects to strategic acquisitions, you’ll hear how they approach growth, culture, and long-term value.

Topics We'll Explore:

  • What investors really look for
  • Turning acquisitions into opportunity
  • Where people, culture and vision connect

About Strictly Business

Powered by Baton Rouge Business Report, Strictly Business is a free webinar series that dives deep into the minds of Louisiana’s most inspiring CEOs and entrepreneurs. Hear their real stories, lessons learned, and how they lead through challenge and change.

Register Now

Don’t miss this timely conversation with one of the region’s most strategic voices.

Join us on November 26 at 11 AM CT as we hear from:

Jerry Hebert and Patrick Bernhard

About Our Guests

Since being infused with capital through an investment from private equity management firm Bernhard Capital Partners in 2022, the Baton Rouge firm formerly known as Grace Hebert Curtis Architecture has grown to an integrated architecture, engineering and consulting firm with 22 regional offices in 12 states. As No. 5 on Zweig Group’s Hot Firm List of fastest-growing AEC firms in the U.S. and Canada, Grace reported gross revenue of $137 million in FY2024, a 242.5% increase over its 2021 gross revenue of $40 million. And more architecture firms around the country are now beginning to follow Grace’s lead by partnering with private equity.

Jerry Hebert has led Grace Design Studios since 1987, transforming the firm into a leader in architecture and design innovation. An LSU architecture grad, Jerry brings a hands-on approach shaped by his early experiences in his father’s workshop. He’s built a reputation for delivering creative, large-scale solutions that reflect client goals and unify diverse teams.

Patrick Bernhard is a Managing Director at Bernhard Capital Partners, where he plays a key role in all aspects of the firm’s investment strategy. He’s been instrumental in Grace’s expansion, including three major acquisitions, and also serves on the boards of Grace and EPIC Piping. His work centers on scaling high-performing companies across infrastructure, energy, and design sectors.