One of the great joys of working in a creative field is the opportunity to introduce young people to the excitement and fun of design. George Armour Ewart, Architect is proud to partner with the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, to encourage and inspire young creatives and offer them an opportunity to explore a future in design. 

The University of Tennessee’s College of Architecture + Design is set to host its annual Summer Design Camp this July. This event is a golden opportunity for high school students interested in architecture, design—or any creative field—to immerse themselves in an enriching educational experience that paves the way to a promising career.

No Experience Needed—Just Curiosity 

Students don’t need any previous design experience to qualify for this exciting opportunity. The only prerequisite is curiosity! 

The Summer Design Camp is a beacon of inspiration and learning for high school students. Its mission is to introduce the impact of design on human experiences through a comprehensive program of immersive learning and exploration. 

Attendees learn basic design principles, theory, and other essential concepts under the guidance of experienced, award-winning faculty and talented students from the UT College of Architecture + Design. 

Then, attendees will put what they learn in the classroom to the test with numerous hands-on projects that are both challenging and fun. Best of all, high school students get a taste of what learning at the University of Tennessee is like! 

Amplifying the Impact 

The camp’s impact has been broadened and deepened through the involvement of industry experts like the founder of GAEA, George Ewart. George and the team at GAEA ensure every camp participant has the opportunity to receive one-on-one guidance to help prepare them for success in whatever career they choose. For years, George has mentored youth in the program, offering each student his years of experience as a mentor and leader in Knoxville architecture. .

Beyond mentorship opportunities, GAEA is proud to have been a scholarship sponsor, helping lower-income participants experience everything UT’s Summer Design Camp offers. The firm’s sponsorship and engagement with the Summer Design Camp spans 14 years, reflecting the team’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of architects, designers, and creatives. 

During this time, camp attendance increased by 12% and, thanks to scholarships, 75 students from 18 different states were able to participate in the program learning college-level design! 

A Launch Pad for Careers 

Two camp attendees have already taken significant steps forward in their design careers… 

Trevor Thompson, a student whose camp attendance was sponsored by GAEA, has secured a full-time position at an architecture firm in Atlanta following an internship at our firm. Ricky Claybough, another student sponsored by Ewart, is actively pursuing a path into the University of Tennessee’s College of Architecture + Design. 

All in all, UT’s Summer Design Camp is an unparalleled platform for students to explore the wonders of design and architecture, guided by industry influencers and dedicated faculty. It’s a pivotal stepping-stone into the world of architecture, a place to ignite passion and creativity, and an opportunity to create the architects and designers of tomorrow. 

Eager to learn more or join the Summer Design Camp? Register now on the University of Tennessee’s site to be a part of this extraordinary journey into the world of design and architecture!