Architecture & Design Firm Announces New Higher Education, Technology Leaders

Architecture, interiors, landscape, and planning firm Carrier Johnson + Culture (CJ+C) recently announced that it has filled two significant leadership roles within the company. Nash Reyes, Assoc. AIA, will serve as the new Director of Technology; and Craig Atkinson, AIA, NOMA, DBIA, LEED AP, as the new Director of Higher Education, according to a news release. Both will work out of the firm’s office in Los Angeles, Calif.

Reyes comes from the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) sector and has served in technology direction roles at Gensler, HMC, and HDR. The news release discusses his vision to foster collaboration between technology and design teams, boost technical skills, stay on top of emerging trends, and matching technology solutions to client needs.

“Carrier Johnson + Culture’s commitment to innovation and reputation as a forward-thinking firm aligns perfectly with my vision for integrating technology into the architectural processes,” said Reyes. “I believe technology is a transformative force that will enhance our design capabilities, streamline operations, and increase client satisfaction. Together, we will revolutionize AEC through tech-driven innovation such as sustainable technology, AI-driven design solutions, and collaborative virtual environments.”

Meanwhile, Atkinson’s 30-plus-year career has centered largely around designing educational facilities like universities, community colleges, K–12 facilities, and more. His educational spaces incorporate elements of his experience in civic facility design like security, mobility, and greenery. He also serves as a member of the American Institute of Architects and as the President of the Southern California Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects.”

“I've always found that educational facilities enrich their surrounding communities,” said Atkinson. “A gymnasium can double as a polling place; a lecture hall as a town hall; a library as a public book reading. Each project is an opportunity to cultivate this symbiotic relationship.”

About the Author

Matt Jones is senior editor of Spaces4Learning. He can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • AAADM Announces Building Safety Month Initiatives

    The American Association of Automatic Door Manufacturers (AAADM) recently announced its support of Building Safety Month as declared by the International Code Council (ICC), according to a news release.

  • Children walking along bright school corridor with motion blur

    How Next-Gen Design Is Reshaping the Student Experience

    The environments where students learn play a crucial role in shaping their growth in and out of the classroom. By centering design on well-being, flexibility, and purpose, districts can ensure their facilities remain vibrant community assets for many years to come.

  • Hawaii Elementary School Breaks Ground on New Classroom Building

    Kealakehe Elementary School in Kailua, Hawaii, recently began construction on a new, $16-million classroom building for its campus, according to a news release. The 13,000-square-foot building will stand two stories and connect the existing upper and lower campuses.

  • Surging Demand for Student Housing Fuels Major Campus Investment Opportunities

    University leaders throughout the U.S. are accelerating plans to modernize and expand student housing as enrollment stabilizes and demand for on-campus living rebounds. Recent data from the National Center for Education Statistics indicates that total postsecondary enrollment is projected to grow through the end of the decade, with undergraduate enrollment alone expected to increase by more than 8 percent by 2030.