REES Named AIA Oklahoma Exemplary AXP Friendly Firm

Education through mentorship

AIA Oklahoma recently named REES an Exemplary AXP Friendly Firm for the fifth consecutive year. This distinction recognizes firms whose internship programs successfully bridge the gap between the classroom and the professional workplace for students while also championing mentorship for professional designers and architects.

“REES’ internship program is a mutually-beneficial program. Students get experience working on projects and our teams benefit from students’ energy and ideas,” Design Group Leader Kate Howell said. “REES is fully invested in providing a paid internship experience that equips students for their first full-time position. We make sure our interns have the opportunity to work and learn from the diverse expertise and disciplines offered by our team.”

Recruiting top talent

Exemplary AXP Friendly Firms are also recognized for demonstrating an established reputation of fostering a positive work environment that aids in the retention of recruits and employees.

REES regularly hires former interns for full-time positions after they complete their studies. Recently Jesus Granillo started a full-time position with REES after completing his interior design internship.

“I worked on so many different types of projects that I learned more than I could have ever hoped,” Jesus said. “From participating in visual listening with clients to assembling mood boards, I got to really experience what it’s like to be a designer. I never got those experiences in the classroom. If you want a friendly, positive and culturally diverse workplace, REES is it. I am so glad I was given this opportunity.”