Today’s Students. Tomorrow’s Designers.
SAF and Weber Thompson inspire Highline Schools students through a hands-on career exploration day.
It's not every day students get a behind-the-scenes look at the world of architecture—discovering the complexities of designing our built environment and experiencing firsthand what it means to work in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry.
For a group of Highline Schools 10th graders, a recent career exploration day hosted by Weber Thompson offered just that.
The experience began on the streets of Seattle, where SAF staff and volunteers led students on a walking tour, sharing stories behind the city's architecture and the places that shape our everyday lives. It was a fitting introduction to a day that would take students beyond observing the built environment to discovering the people, ideas, and creative processes behind its design.
At the innovative Watershed building, students met with industry professionals, learned about career paths in architecture and design, and explored how sustainable building practices can help protect our waterways, reduce environmental impact, and create a more resilient built environment.
But the learning didn't stop there!
Putting their newfound knowledge and creativity to work, students were challenged to design and build models inspired by the natural pathways of waterfalls. What began as a design exercise quickly became an opportunity to experiment, problem-solve, and see their own ideas take shape. As their models came together, so did their excitement and curiosity. One thing was clear: inspiration had struck!
A special thank-you to Weber Thompson, a valued SAF corporate sponsor, for opening its doors, sharing its expertise, and giving students an inspiring look at architecture in action. We're also grateful to Erik Doran, SAF Board Member, for his commitment to creating meaningful connections between students and the AEC community.
Opening Doors to New Possibilities
For the second year, SAF is partnering with Highline Schools' career exploration program to introduce 10th-grade students from across the district to opportunities in architecture, engineering, and construction.
By connecting students with local firms and the professionals who work there, the program offers something that can't always be experienced in a classroom: the opportunity to see how individual interests, creative thinking, and technical skills translate into real-world careers.
And the opportunities continue. In December, SAF corporate sponsors HOK and JLL will welcome students for additional career exploration experiences, building on the connections and discoveries made throughout the program.
These partnerships reflect SAF's commitment to making architecture and design accessible to all—opening doors to new experiences, encouraging curiosity, and helping young people imagine their own role in shaping the places and communities around them.
After all, the next generation of architects, designers, and engineers who will shape Seattle's future are sitting in classrooms today.
Interested in partnering with SAF? Contact Gwen Lennox at gwen@seattlearchitecture.org.
