The professionals at Ashley McGraw Architects in Syracuse gave Windsor Central High School students a first-hand look at the reality of their jobs – virtual and otherwise.

 

The architects, engineers and artists at the firm shared their professional pathways and gave the students a sneak peek at a new Technology Wing that will be at the High School next year through a virtual reality tour. 

 

 

 

“I like the idea they have. It was odd at first because it’s such a drastic change from before,” said junior Ian Shaffer. “You put on the glasses and you can walk around and see exactly how they have it set up. You can see what it looks like and exactly how it’s going to be.”

 

However, the virtual reality tour did more than just give the students a preview of the changes coming to their school. It also showed working in an architecture firm is about more than just making blueprints.

 

“It showed kids you can have a multitude of skills no matter what your job title. You wear many hats, even though you may only have one job. And they stressed the importance of interpersonal skills,” said career counselor Heather Noyd. 

 

 

 

“We took a tour of what they call their library of materials. There was so much stuff in there, from flooring to fabrics,” said junior Kristen Launt. “After they create their designs, they produce the virtual reality tour and they need a lot of art to make that happen.”

 

Launt says she learned a lot more work goes into creating designs and presentations than she thought. Other students may soon be able to find out just how much work. Employees at Ashley McGraw offered to allow Windsor students to job shadow them find out more about what it takes to work in the industry.