Author Archives: Tarik Hameed

Regional Skilled Trades Solution Center wins 2024 CPN Star Award

We are proud to announce that Morris-Berg Architects and New Atlantic Contracting were awarded the 2024 Construction Professionals Network (CPN) Star Award for the Western Piedmont Community College Skilled Trades Solution Center in the category for projects below $10 million. The CPN Star Award honors project excellence among CPN firm and is one of the highest achievements in the design and construction industry.

This State Construction Office project was delivered through the design-build process and expedited by combining the schematic and design development phases into a single submittal.  In addition, the team navigated the Covid-era material delays by strategically procuring mechanical units and structural steel as an early procurement package.  Design of the project was in context with the rolling mountains of Morganton, NC and not only positioned but also highlighted as a beacon for the community along Burkemont Avenue. The facility provides classrooms and labs to support all aspects of construction, including wood framing, mechanical, electrical and plumbing that directly support the community’s need for skilled trades.

As Dr. Joel Welch, President of WPCC states, “Morris-Berg Architects and New Atlantic Contracting personnel provided insight, offered solutions, and provided a “sounding board” as we worked through items.  The project has been a very transparent and smoothly run construction project.”  The project provided a positive community impact, as Alan Wood, President and CEO of Burke Development explains, “The new facility allows a state-of-the-art center for the construction trades and we believe this will enhance the college’s ability to recruit new students from across the region”.

Hayden Meehan joins Morris-Berg as Controller

Please welcome our Controller, Hayden Meehan, CPA to Morris-Berg Architects! Hayden is dedicated and detail-oriented accountant with over a decade of experience in business accounting and tax preparation. With meticulous attention to detail, she collaborates with firm leadership to maintain business success which is a trademark of the firm. Her role also involves reviewing and preparing accounts receivable and payable to uphold the firm’s legacy of fairness and promptness in bookkeeping. Hayden holds a Master of Science in Accounting with a Concentration in Taxation from Strayer University and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. 

Please join us in welcoming Hayden to the team!

AIA North Carolina Outstanding Emerging Professionals Friendly Firm Award

Morris-Berg Architects was recognized with the 2023 AIA North Carolina Outstanding Emerging Professionals Friendly Firm Award, which highlights our dedication to nurturing the next generation of architects. Throughout our 50 years, the firm has emphasized mentorship by providing Emerging Professionals (EPs) with practical experience in project management through all phases of projects.

Mentoring is imbedded in our culture, with senior members guiding EPs, recognizing the importance of sharing knowledge and experiences for a lifelong career in architecture. Our small firm offers EPs access to various aspects of project management, fostering an environment where they can learn, ask questions, and contribute meaningfully.

Business transparency is paramount at Morris-Berg, illustrated through regular presentations of performance metrics and financials, emphasizing the impact of every team member, including EPs. EPs actively lead projects, gaining valuable experience in project management and design decisions. Our strategic plan, co-created with EP input, focuses on promoting a balanced, diverse, and nurtured workforce.

As active members of professional organizations, our commitment to EP growth extends beyond the firm. Our EPs are regularly awarded recognition for their efforts by AIA Charlotte and reflects our support for EPs in their professional journey. In community service, EPs participate in initiatives like guest juror roles, street cleanups, and contributing to clothing and food drives. In Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), EPs play a pivotal role in establishing new holiday policies and fostering diversity in project teams.

The 2023 AIA North Carolina Outstanding Emerging Professionals Friendly Firm Award is a testament to our holistic approach to mentorship, development, and community engagement, actively shaping the future of architecture through a culture of inclusion and innovation.

NCNOMA Equitable and Inclusive Practice Award

Morris-Berg Architects proudly received the inaugural 2023 Equitable and Inclusive Practice Award from the North Carolina Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NCNOMA). As a small architecture firm, we’re committed to reshaping industry norms and meeting today’s professional demands by actively supporting diversity and interrupting bias.

The firm was recognized for the award in part through our work to actively engage in HBCU and community college career fairs as well as fostering partnerships with local community groups that serve disadvantaged youth. Our commitment extends internally to our own staff by providing dedicated hours of mentorship programs and aiding individuals from underrepresented backgrounds in advancing their careers. The firm has implemented a structured interview process to minimize unconscious biases and assess candidates based on skills and experience. Our inclusive leadership development initiatives are designed to consider the unique experiences of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Moreover, we prioritize ongoing Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) training for both leadership and staff, covering topics like unconscious bias, anti-discrimination, and anti-harassment.

Receiving the Equitable and Inclusive Practice Award from NCNOMA affirms our dedication to transforming the architectural profession. We are committed to providing equal opportunities, breaking down barriers, and actively shaping a future where diversity and inclusion are integral to our success and the success of our industry.