Since 1992, CNH Architects has been mentoring local high school students who have an interest in an architecture or design career. Most recently, Rosemount High School senior Sydney Sheppard spent a semester with CNH architectural designer Morgan Larson.

Sydney ultimately designed a library geared toward college students. She presented her final design to CNH staff, explaining the many iterations and ideas she explored while working at CNH.

She spent much of her time learning Autodesk Revit, the design software many architects, designers, and engineers use daily.

“Sydney spent a lot of time in Revit,” Larson said, “she went above and beyond.”

While she has been able to take interior design and landscape classes throughout high school, Sydney hadn’t had much exposure to any design software.

“I spent time navigating and learning the software and it really helped to build a better understanding of the day-to-day,” she explained.

She also spent time exploring CNH’s material library, learning about accessibility and how important it is (and often necessary) to incorporate into designs, and how much teamwork goes into creating a successful design and build.

“I’ve realized architects deal with more than just the structure and they collaborate closely with engineers, interior designers, and contractors.” she said.

Sydney will take the invaluable experience with her to the University of Minnesota next year, where she plans to study architecture.