Adam Gardiner
Future Architect Builds a Vision for Sustainable Design and Impact
For Adam Gardiner, architecture is more than designing buildings. It is an opportunity to create meaningful spaces, inspire others, and make a lasting impact on the world through thoughtful and sustainable design. Adam discovered his passion for architecture during his junior year of high school after realizing the power that thoughtful design can have on communities and the environment.
"My inspiration to pursue architecture comes from the fact that I can leave a lasting and eco-friendly impact on our world that can inspire many and positively affect the lives of those who experience my potential works," Adam said.
Since finding his passion, Adam has dedicated himself to developing his architectural drafting skills and expanding his knowledge of the field. His commitment and hard work recently led to a major achievement: earning first place in Architectural Drafting at the SkillsUSA competition.
"The experience was, for lack of a better word, amazing," Adam recalled. "I remember getting on the bus to go to the competition with a study book in my hand, making sure I had no chinks in my armor. When I heard my name called for first place, I shot up and ran over to the podium. For a solid 10 minutes, my hands were numb."
Following his success at the competition, Adam is preparing to represent his school at the national SkillsUSA competition in Atlanta. To prepare, he continues to strengthen his technical skills through hands-on practice, studying architectural concepts, and completing full residential design plans.
"My preparations for Nationals consist of four-hour work periods where I see how much I can get done in that time, reading my architecture books, and putting things I've learned into practice to ensure everything flows correctly," he said. "Completing full residential plans helps me understand and identify my weaknesses so I know what to practice more."
This fall, Adam will continue his architectural journey at Marywood University, where he plans to pursue his studies in architecture. During his visits to campus, he was drawn to Marywood’s welcoming community and the support he experienced from faculty members.
"The professors and teachers seemed very nice," Adam said. "Politeness and respect go a long way for me, and I felt both during every visit to my college."
As he begins his college career, Adam is looking forward to exploring new areas of architecture, developing his skills, and gaining the knowledge needed to succeed in the profession.
"I'm most excited to finally dip my feet into genuine college courses," he said. "I feel these courses will be the cocoon where my professional career will grow."
Adam also understands the importance of developing strong academic habits as he transitions into a rigorous architecture program. He plans to focus on finding effective study strategies that will help him manage coursework and continue improving his skills.
"When I find my best studying methods, I'll be sure to use them often to ensure a fluid workflow," he said.
Looking ahead, Adam has ambitious goals for his future in architecture. He hopes to gain professional experience through an internship during his college career, work with an established architecture firm after graduation, and eventually create a firm of his own.
"I'd love to get an internship around my second or third year," Adam said. "After college, I plan on spending 10 to 20 years building my professional career and climbing the corporate ladder at a well-established firm. After that, I plan to create my own firm."
With a passion for sustainable architecture, a dedication to learning, and a clear vision for the future, Adam Gardiner is preparing to become the next generation of architects who create spaces that positively impact communities for years to come.