PBK

Our West Region Director, Jesse Miller, was recently featured on the The Better Learning Podcast with Jeff Kubiak and Carla Cummins to discuss how K–12 architecture can shape the way students learn—and who they become.

Drawing on more than two decades of experience designing schools across California, Nevada, and Texas, Jesse shared insights on creating radically student-centered environments through vision, community input, and thoughtful design. From working on Compton High School alongside Dr. Dre to rethinking everyday spaces like corridors and collaboration zones, the conversation highlights how every square foot can support learning and belonging.

Key takeaways include designing schools for the next 100 years, putting learning on display so students can “shop their future,” and inviting both teachers and students into the design process from the very beginning.

Better Learning Podcast: How School Architecture Shapes Student Futures with Jesse Miller What if the buildings we design for students could shape not just how they learn, but who they become? In this episode, Jeff Kubiak and Carla Cummins sit down with Jesse Miller, Managing Senior Principal at PBK Architects, to explore how K-12 architecture can transform education from the ground up.....

The new workforce building at Texas State Technical College’s Fort Bend campus expands opportunities for hands-on training in high-demand fields like Diesel Technology, Automotive Technology, and Collision Repair. Designed to support collaboration, innovation, and real-world learning, this 107,000-square-foot facility provides students with the tools and environments they need to develop in-demand skills.

We’re proud to help create spaces where students can gain practical experience, build confidence, and prepare for careers that strengthen local communities and industries. 🚗⚙️

Earlier this year, Florida State University opened its new Women’s Lacrosse Complex — a milestone moment for the program and its student-athletes. We are proud to have partnered with FSU Athletics and university leadership on this important project alongside our construction partner, ScorpioCo.

For Special Projects Manager, Courtney Turco, this project carried a deeply personal meaning. Courtney was a founding member of the FSU Women’s Lacrosse club team in 1999, helping lay the foundation for a program that would ultimately rise to varsity status. Decades later, she found herself supporting the design team behind the university’s first dedicated Women’s Lacrosse Complex — an experience she describes as truly full circle.

From her early days as a student-athlete to her current role within PBK’s Sports Division, Courtney’s background in lacrosse continues to shape how she approaches her work — bringing insight into athlete experience, fan engagement, and the culture that makes a venue feel authentic to its community. Her journey reflects the spirit of this project: honoring tradition while creating space for the next generation.

We are grateful for the opportunity to support institutions like FSU in delivering facilities that elevate student-athletes, strengthen programs, and inspire future leaders. And we are especially proud to celebrate the meaningful contributions of our team members whose passions extend beyond the office and into the communities we serve.

Happy Friday - the last one until its officially fall! Even when (if) the temps start dropping, we’ll be reminiscing about sun, sand, and fun we had last week the AIA Sandcastle competition! ☀️😎🏝️ Along with our friends at Millenium Project Solutions, PBK constructed “Sand Prix”, inspired by one of the turns on the F1 Monaco track. After months of planning, the team brought our vision to life at the annual competition in Galveston - one of our favorite weekends of the year!