SPIKE Studio commemorated two decades of inspiring future AEC professionals with heartfelt addresses from founders Oscar “Spike” Harris, Jay Bailey of HJ Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs, and Mayor Dickens, among others. Council member Michael Julian Bond honored SPIKE Studio’s impact with a special proclamation, commemorating their contribution to the city.

a group of seven people standing together in front of a backdrop that reads "MAYOR ANDRE DICKENS". The individuals are diverse in age, gender, and ethnicity. They are dressed in a range of attire from casual to formal business wear. From left to right: A man in a dark suit with a purple shirt An older man wearing a hat and glasses A man in a dark suit and tie, likely Mayor Andre Dickens A younger man in casual clothing A woman with red hair wearing a bright blue top and colorful skirt A man in a gray suit A younger man in a light blue patterned blazer The group appears to be at an event or presentation related to Mayor Andre Dickens, based on the backdrop. They are all smiling and standing close together, suggesting a friendly or collaborative atmosphere.
Credit: Alex Jones

Lee Jarboe, Vice President / Sr. Client Solutions Director at JE Dunn has been involved with the nonprofit SPIKE Studio since its inception. “Organizations like SPIKE Studio, nurturing diversity in our industry, are pivotal in building a workforce pipeline and empowering future creative leaders,” she said.

From students to board members

The 20th-anniversary celebration was a wonderful gathering that united numerous supporters who have been instrumental in SPIKE’S growth over the past 20 years. “It was heartening to listen to our former students share how SPIKE Studios has profoundly influenced their personal and professional lives. The fact that some of these alumni now serve on our Board speaks volumes about the impact of our programs,” says Jarboe. She explained that this year was one of special significance because her daughter got the chance to participate in their summer academy, once again proving the impact made on lives, even in her own family. 

Building a diverse workforce pipeline

SPIKE Studio aims to fuel the pipeline of future A/E/C industry professionals by harnessing excitement and creativity in students. Many of SPIKE’s students are from under-served neighborhoods in Atlanta and have yet to be exposed to the industry and all the career opportunities that come along with it. 

Jarboe hopes to see the organization show kids how impactful the A/E/C industry is on everyone’s daily life. “As we grow our financial resources, I would like us to continue to send students to Harvard University’s summer design program and be able to offer scholarships to students majoring in an A/E/C career path,” Jarboe says. SPIKE Studio hopes to become a place for parents, students, and educators to connect within the industry. As a volunteer-run organization, donations are vital. They rely on funding from industry partners and individuals to be able to provide inspiring programming to students.

Stay connected and support SPIKE Studio’s mission by getting involved here.