In celebration of National Architecture Month, California Baptist University (CBU) collaborated with Ruhnau Clarke Architects to host “Careers by Design” - a career pathway appreciation event pairing 30 architecture, interior design and graphic design students with professionals in the field. The event underscored the importance of educational and professional partnerships in shaping the future of creative careers.
“With the employment of architects and designers expected to grow 8% over the next 10 years, career-entrenching opportunities like this inspire our students on how they can begin their career immediately upon graduation,” said Dirk Dallas, dean of CBU’s College of Architecture, Visual Arts & Design. “Real-world perspectives by industry professionals are key components of our program.”
Three CBU alumni — now full-time employees at Ruhnau Clarke Architects — delivered presentations on their respective fields: architecture, interior design and graphic design. During the presentation, the alumni emphasized best practices in design development, the importance of good culture and expert tips on excelling in the professional world. The event also included a Q&A session, breakout groups for each field of study and a tour of the studios of Ruhnau Clarke Architects.
“We are proud to support future architects and help cultivate the next generation of design leaders," said Roger Clarke, President and Principal-in-Charge of Ruhnau Clarke Architects. "National Architecture Month is the perfect time to engage with students and share our passion for creating spaces throughout California that improve the lives of those who occupy them and have a positive impact on our shared communities."
As the only school on the west coast to offer an NAAB accredited five-year Master of Architecture degree, CBU’s program accelerates career-focused students by building strong partnerships with top firms like Ruhnau Clarke Architects, ensuring that its graduates are well equipped for a competitive job market.
“Today’s event talked a lot about collaboration,” said Noah Witt, a current graphic design student at CBU. “Being outside of the classroom and here at an architecture firm expanded my horizons and opened up a whole new world.”