Architecture Summer Camp
June 25-27 | PCC Cascade Campus
Empowering young people to affect change in their community through design.
About
In 2006 the National Organization of Minority Architects created an initiative called Project Pipeline with the goal of providing the “pipeline” for a more equitable and diverse profession by introducing architecture to minority students, with a focus on Black students. Using the city as the classroom and connecting young people to real-world architects and planners, we foster the next generation of design professionals, civic leaders, and changemakers. We advocate for increased inclusiveness, diversity, fellowship, equity, and excellence in design.
To continue the legacy, in 2022, the Portland Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA PDX) created an Architecture Summer Camp designed to introduce middle school students (grades 6-8/ ages 11-14), with a focus on those who have been historically underrepresented in the profession, to the field of architecture and design.
The 3-day summer camp guides middle school students through all stages of the design process using design tools and practices such as sketching, diagramming, research, site visits, drawing, and model making, to create a fully realized project that addresses a community-focused issue. Students are mentored by local architects, designers, and community members to develop skills and tools to contribute to their community critically and constructively.
Through the summer camp, young people grasp the significance of architecture in their daily lives, as well as the broader cultural, social, and historical implications.
Days at a Glance
Day 1: What is Design
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The camp starts with an intro to the fundamentals of architecture, design, and design justice.
Students are then introduced to the design challenge (local to the camp’s location), go on site tours and interview community members. They work closely with architects and designers who guide them through engaging and collaborative activities.
Day 2: Power of Design
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Students continue to explore their project collectively as a group through research, diagramming, drawing, collage making, and begin exploring model making.
They continue to develop the skills and tools to create designs they and the community would like to see.
Day 3: I Can Design!
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In the first half of the day students work on finalizing their design and presentation materials.
Students present a fully realized project that addresses the design challenge to their families and invited community members.
REGISTER
Student registration
REGISTER TODAY!!! Register before May 29, 2026. Space is limited to 40 students.
Eligibility:
Middle School Students (grades 6-8, ages 11-14).
Students currently in 5th grade and entering 6th grade in Fall 2026 are eligible to register.
Students currently in 8th grade and entering 9th grade in Fall 2026 are eligible to register.
Program Details:
Location: Portland Community College - Cascade Campus Student Union (5575 N Albina Ave, Portland, OR 97217)
Dates/Hours: June 26-28, 9 AM - 3 PM
Cost: Camp registration is FREE and includes all materials, supplies, and a meal each day.
Advanced registration is required. There is no on-site registration the day of the event.
Space is limited to 40 students.
SUPPORT
The summer camp is a community-supported program made possible by the support of our volunteers and sponsors in the AEC Community.
CAMP VOLUNTEER - Deadline June 6
Middle school students who participate in our summer camp are taught and mentored by Architects, Designers, Planners, and Community Members to create designs they would like to see in their communities.
Volunteer!
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Lead a small group of middle school students, facilitate design discussions, workshops, and activities, and guide the students through all stages of the design process to help their students/group fully realize a project that addresses a community-focused issue.
Attendance to all summer camp days required.
(2) Design Mentor trainings required.
Open to active NOMA PDX or NOMAS members only.
(10) Design Mentor Leads needed
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Assist the Lead Design Mentor with design discussions, workshops, and activities.
Attendance to all summer camp days required.
(2) Design Mentor trainings required.
Open to non-members and all design professionals and students (architects, planners, designers, and related fields).
(10) Design Mentors needed
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Assist with various tasks for the camp - from pre/post camp preparation, setup/takedown, registration, nutrition, running a model making station, etc.
Any time you can commit is welcomed but we would greatly appreciate it if you can participate a minimum of two days.
As with past years, Fridays and Saturdays need the most support with design production and model making.
Volunteer assignments will be made based on the needs of the Camp. We ask you all to be flexible in your assignment.
Open to non-members and all design professionals and students (architects, planners, designers, and related fields).
(1) Training required
PLANNING COMMITTEE - ON GOING
Join the Project Pipeline Summer Camp Planning Committee to support the planning and coordination of the camp. The committee meets every fourth Monday of each month.
Planning Committee Teams
Curriculum - Workshops & Activities
Volunteer Coordination
Recruitment
Registration
Graphics & Social Media
Contact Us.
If you would like to know more about registering for the summer camp or getting involved through volunteering, please complete this form.
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GALLERY
2025 SUMMER CAMP
