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PCSD Interns: Exploring the Architectural Realm: A Day at Berliner Architects

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Architecture is an art that shapes our physical environment, blending aesthetics and functionality to create spaces that inspire, uplift, and leave a lasting impact. Our intern recently had the opportunity to step into the world of Berliner Architects, where we were warmly welcomed by Richard Berliner, the firm’s Principal, Rahel Zewdu, senior associate/project manager, and Tony Armer, senior project manager. This immersive experience provided us with a unique insight into their career journeys, the inner workings of an architect’s office, and the importance of client collaboration. Join us as we recount this enlightening day filled with inspiration and architectural wonders.

Unveiling Remarkable Career Journeys

Our encounter with Richard Berliner was inspiring. With a degree in architecture from RISD, he embarked on an ambitious path, overcoming obstacles and eventually founding his own firm. His journey resonated with us, illustrating the importance of perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.

Rahel Zewdu, senior associate/project manager at Berliner Architects, shared her remarkable career progression, which showcased the diverse roles architects can undertake. Rahel’s transition from drafting plans to project management illuminated the multi-faceted nature of the profession. Her unwavering dedication to bringing visionary designs to life left us in awe, igniting a deeper appreciation for the intricate work architects undertake.

Tony Armer, a seasoned architect with a wealth of experience, brings a unique perspective to the team at Berliner Architects. Although he didn’t pursue a formal degree in architecture, his unwavering passion led him down a remarkable path. Tony’s journey started after high school, where his true calling emerged when he found himself drawn to the world of architecture. Tony honed his skills through hands-on experience, working for an architect in Malibu on residential projects before venturing into the realm of commercial work.

Observing the Inner Workings

As we delved deeper into the architect’s world, we were granted a glimpse into the inner workings of Berliner Architects. The modeling room, where designs came to life through intricate models, was a testament to the firm’s commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring innovative solutions. The resource library, filled with design references and materials, provided a rich source of inspiration, fueling the creative process.

A Gateway to Collaboration: The Client Meeting

One of the highlights of our visit was observing a client meeting between Berliner Architects and one of PCSD’s partner schools. Witnessing the collaborative dynamics and the client-centric approach was a transformative experience. It reinforced the importance of effective communication, understanding client needs, and integrating the input of all stakeholders. The meeting underscored the architect’s role as a facilitator, translating visions into tangible spaces that meet the unique requirements of each client.

Key Lessons Learned

Throughout our day at Berliner Architects, we absorbed invaluable lessons that will shape our journeys. We learned that relationships are the foundation of success, listening to client needs is paramount, and engaging with the community is essential to create spaces that resonate with people’s lives. Additionally, we discovered the transformative potential of digital tools and technologies in enhancing the architectural process, streamlining workflows, and promoting sustainability.

Our visit to Berliner Architects was a remarkable experience that immersed us in the world of architecture. Richard Berliner, Rahel Zewdu, and Tony Armer’s stories and insights inspired us to dream big and pursue our passions relentlessly. Witnessing the collaborative process and observing the architect’s role in client meetings provided invaluable lessons in effective communication and client-centered design. We left Berliner Architects with a renewed sense of purpose, eager to make a meaningful impact on the world around us.

PCSD Interns: Exploring the Inner Workings of Commercial Bank of California

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Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at a bank? Recently, our intern had the incredible opportunity to delve into the inner workings of one of our esteemed banking partners, Commercial Bank of California. With a comprehensive itinerary, they had the privilege of meeting team members from various departments, including client relations, operations, SBA, compliance, CRA, lending, credit, and even members of the C-suite. The visit not only provided valuable insights into the banking business but also offered a glimpse into the personal career journeys of these dedicated professionals. Join us as we explore the experiences of our intern and gain a deeper understanding of the multifaceted operations at Commercial Bank of California.

Client Relations, Operations, and SBA: Building Strong Relationships and Supporting Businesses

During the visit, our intern had the opportunity to meet team members from client relations and operations, who emphasized the bank’s commitment to top-notch customer service. These dedicated professionals employ a white glove treatment, ensuring that every client receives exceptional support and attention. Additionally, the Small Business Administration (SBA) team shared valuable insights into their role in supporting riskier ventures through guaranteed loans, ultimately empowering small businesses to thrive.

Compliance, CRA, and Credit: Navigating Regulations and Evaluating Loans

The visit also shed light on the crucial departments responsible for compliance, CRA (Community Reinvestment Act), and credit. Compliance officers play a vital role in ensuring that the bank adheres to all financial institution regulations, protecting both the bank and its customers. The CRA team actively invests in communities that the bank serves, organizes financial literacy sessions, and engages in volunteer activities. Furthermore, the Credit Division carefully evaluates loans, analyzing financial statements and appraisals, to support businesses seeking financing.

C-Suite and Personal Career Journeys: Insights from Visionary Leaders

We had the opportunity to meet several members of the C-suite, including Chris Colella, the Chief Credit Officer, and Mark Yoon, the Chief Financial Officer. Their leadership and expertise guide the bank’s operations, ensuring its profitability and success. Additionally, hearing the personal career journeys of these professionals emphasized the value of continuous learning and adaptability in the banking industry.

The intern’s visit to Commercial Bank of California provided a unique and enriching experience, offering a glimpse into the inner workings of the bank. From client relations to compliance, credit, and the C-suite, the dedicated professionals showcased the bank’s commitment to exceptional customer service, community reinvestment, risk management, and financial success. Their personal career journeys highlighted the diverse paths one can take within the banking industry. Commercial Bank of California stands as a testament to the vital role banks play in supporting businesses and individuals, while also nurturing the professional growth and development of their own employees.

PCSD Hosts CIWI Interns for Third Year

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Pacific Charter School Development’s Northern California team recently sponsored a new group of interns through the Construction Industry Workforce Initiative (CIWI) for the third consecutive year.

On June 26th, we had the pleasure of hosting a group of ten CIWI interns who are currently enrolled in universities and colleges throughout California. These talented students are pursuing diverse fields within the construction industry, ranging from civil engineering to construction management, development, and architecture, among others. We introduced them to our team and also facilitated conversations with architects and general contractors at two Oakland schools:  Education for Change’s Achieve Academy campus and Leadership Public School’s R & D school located on the Castlemont campus. To provide a comprehensive experience, we even arranged for one of Overaa’s high school interns to share insights about working on a construction site.

During the visit, we showcased the ongoing renovations in the existing buildings, as well as the construction documents and building pads for the upcoming construction taking place over the next year. At the first campus, the interns received an overview of school construction projects and had the opportunity to observe the construction site from the balcony of a building slated for demolition in the summer of 2024. They learned about the challenges that arise in the construction process and how the teams effectively tackled them. Moreover, the interns gained valuable insights into the educational pathways that lead to successful careers in the construction industry.

By the end of the day, several students expressed interest in school construction, as it hadn’t been on their radar before. This experience opened their eyes to the possibilities and potential within this field, and we are thrilled to have played a part in shaping their career aspirations.

Monte Wilson, CIWI Project Director, reflecting on the event, enthusiastically stated, “This partnership with PCSD has been an incredible journey, and this year’s collaboration with the CIWI interns further solidifies the impact we can make together. Witnessing the interns’ growing interest in school construction and their exposure to diverse aspects of the industry has been truly inspiring. We are proud to play a role in shaping their futures and fostering their passion for construction.”

PCSD Interns: Commercial Real Estate with InSite EFS

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PCSD’s summer interns had the privilege of learning from industry expert, Dan Morrar from InSite EFS. Through two highly informative sessions, Dan not only shared his extensive background but also provided a comprehensive understanding of commercial brokerage and the work conducted at InSite EFS. The sessions were filled with enlightening case studies, lively discussions, and a platform for our interns to gain clarity on specific terms, processes, and site selection and development. It was an incredible learning experience.

Dan Morrar, a professional in the field of commercial brokerage, captivated our attention right from the start. He began by sharing his background, highlighting the challenges he faced and the milestones he achieved throughout his career. His journey served as an inspiration, proving that dedication and perseverance can lead to success. Dan’s willingness to share his experiences and personal insights created a positive learning environment, fostering enthusiasm and eagerness to explore the field further.

  1. Understanding the Intricacies of Commercial Brokerage: In the first session, Dan dived into the intricacies of commercial brokerage, unveiling the key aspects and processes involved in this dynamic industry. From negotiating deals to market analysis, we gained a comprehensive understanding of the various roles and responsibilities of a commercial broker. Dan’s expertise shone through as he shared real-life examples and practical tips, providing the interns with a glimpse into the world of commercial real estate and the complexities faced by professionals in this field.
  2. Exploring InSite EFS: A Journey Through Case Studies: During the second session, Dan took us on a journey through the work of InSite EFS, offering a deeper insight into the company’s operations. He presented a series of intriguing case studies, showcasing the diversity of projects undertaken by InSite EFS and the innovative approaches employed in each one. The case studies not only demonstrated the team’s expertise in site selection and development but also highlighted the importance of collaboration, problem-solving, and adaptability in the commercial brokerage industry.

Dan encouraged active participation and open dialogue. The interns had the opportunity to ask questions about specific terms, seek clarification on complex processes, and gain a deeper understanding of the field. Dan shared practical examples and personal anecdotes to ensure that the interns grasped the concepts effectively. The interactive nature of the sessions allowed the interns to explore and engage in meaningful discussions, making the learning experience all the more enriching.

Equitas Academy 5/6 Video

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PCSD partnered with Equitas Academy Charter Schools to develop a new campus for two elementary schools (Equitas Academy #5 and #6) in the Pico Union neighborhood of Los Angeles adjacent to its flagship campus (Equitas Academy #1). The property, which was previously an armored transport building, was converted into a two-story classroom building with administrative offices on the second floor for Equitas’ headquarters. The new space has an open-air play yard on the second floor which includes daylighting tubes in the seating areas to bring natural light to the first floor. Seating has been added around the staircases to create breakout spaces. There is ample parking onsite.

Caliber: Beta Academy Video

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In Fall 2022, PCSD delivered a brand new campus for Caliber Public Schools’ Beta Academy, a TK-8 school in San Pablo, CA. The transformation for the entire community from students to teachers/administrators to parents has been amazing. We worked closely with our charter school partner, Caliber Public Schools, the architects, Lionakis, and the contractors, Clark/Sullivan and Broward (JV), to imagine a space that was safe, inspiring, and high quality.