Amarillo ISD—AmTech Career Academy
Architects: Corgan
Serving as a pipeline for Panhandle students to discover their passion, Amarillo ISD partnered with local businesses to encourage talent retention in the area. The academy includes nine areas of study, with over 30 career pathways to choose from. The pathways provide valuable training, but also certification, allowing students to start full-time careers after high school. The existing building was repurposed to put learning on display while revitalizing the surrounding neighborhood.
Design
By repurposing two abandoned buildings, the design compliments existing elements, juxtaposing new with old. The building shows the inner workings of the structure and systems, serving as a teaching tool. The discipline adjacencies were carefully curated with the help of teachers and staff to promote learning and collaboration between disciplines. Wanting students and visitors to have a glimpse into other pathways, the district put learning on display through ample glass and open spaces.
Value
The project renovated an existing, abandoned department store and warehouse into a state-of-the-art career academy. By using this existing structure and site, the district saved an estimated $15 million dollars, creating value for their taxpayers while revitalizing the surrounding area. Existing finishes were carefully cataloged to determine which materials would be salvaged for the final design. Graduates provide local businesses with strong talent to be remain competitive.
Innovation
AmTech creates engaging environments that push technology within each pathway. Spaces such as the drone coliseum allow students to become licensed pilots, while the police program features immersive technology to simulate real-world scenarios. The school offers a full-service bistro, credit union, and auto shop, which are open to the public and run by students. The large exterior displays create a prominent presence, while putting learning on display.
Community
Multiple meetings with the community, parents, and local business leaders led to uncovering what the community was missing and informed the design. It serves as the first major rehabilitation of a previously stagnated part of town. Over 10,000 national business leaders have toured the facility since its opening, using it as a precedent for their own communities seeking to hire talent. This recognition has brought new business and attention to Amarillo, sparking further development.
Planning
The program for AmTech was determined through multiple community meetings defining success in the Panhandle. The programmatic layout began with teachers determining meaningful adjacencies. Teachers were asked to dream up what the perfect environment looks like in their respective field. Once ideas were compiled, the design team set out to make these into reality. Master plan coordination meetings took place with the adjacent Sunset Arts Center.
School Transformation
AmTech provides Amarillo ISD’s five existing high schools, Amarillo College, and the hub-communities of Amarillo a regional career center, the first in the area. The academy expands on what career and technical education can mean – by creating immersive spaces, students are aptly prepared for their next step. The revitalized educational environment equips student to succeed. Beyond a renovation and expansion, it reimagined the building and the greater impact of the school within the community.
Star of Distinction Category Winner