Established as a multi-year, long-term vision by the Nesmith Design Group in 2021, BCYADC recently convened our first Junior Architect in Training Pilot Program in partnership and hosted by Open Works in Baltimore City with youth (sophomore, junior, and senior years) from the Baltimore Design School (BDS). The youth participants complete a 24-week course focused on basic and intermediate design principles, AutoCAD and REVIT software, history of Black Architects in America, and college portfolio preparation. Response, participation, and evident growth have been tremendous and extremely encouraging.

Students who completed the first pilot program received a stipend for their participation, but more importantly began the process of building a portfolio for college and professional use. The pilot program culminated in 2023 BCYADC Inaugural “Topping Off” Party at which each of our youth presented their unique design of a Baltimore row home and associated design elements (square ft., elevations, floor heights, floors plans, windows, stairs, etc.) along with renderings and 3D presentations. Over 30 participants attended including proud parents, funding representatives, BDS and Open Works representatives. Response to the event was extremely positive and the BCYADC has secured enough funding for a Fall 2023 and Winter 2024 Cohort.