American Academy of Innovation Names Student Team and Architect for New APEX Building

Media Contact:
American Academy of Innovation
Robert Warren, APEX Director
801-810-4786
robert.warren@aaiutah.org

American Academy of Innovation Names Student Team and Architect for New APEX Building

Grant-funded facility will house professional learning programs opening in 2027–28

SOUTH JORDAN, Utah (November 11, 2026) — American Academy of Innovation (AAI) has named a seven-member student team and selected Place Collaborative as architect for a new building funded under the Utah APEX Grant Program. The 5,000-plus-square-foot facility will house Adult Professional Education Experiences (APEX) programs, which will expand AAI's career and technical education (CTE) offerings into professional learning programs where students prepare for post-secondary technical programs and high-demand industry jobs starting in the 2027–28 school year.

AAI received the grant as part of a charter school consortium with Providence Hall and seven other charter schools, allowing students across all participating schools to access APEX programs offered by the schools.

"This grant shows that our programs are working, and that they meet the needs of our students and of Utah's growing industries," said Scott Jones, AAI Executive Director. "We look forward to expanding our facilities and equipment and working with partners who are eager to help build strong career and technical programs."

In keeping with AAI tradition, students will play a direct role in the project. Following the example of a student group that led the 2020 building expansion project, the APEX Student Team will work with architects, contractors, and city and state officials to help get the building ready for the 2027–28 school year. Staff members nominated students who they felt could contribute to the effort and handle the commitment. Team members are Liston Bokmej, Laci Kramer, Jomei Green, Renee Jones, Emmett Sledge, and Ryker Wilstead.

"I saw what our students accomplished during the 2020 expansion, and I know this team is ready for the same challenge," said Robert Warren, AAI APEX Director, who also worked on the 2020 project. "Partnering with Place Collaborative gives our students a chance to learn from professionals while shaping a building they and students across the consortium will use for years to come."

AAI selected Place Collaborative after reviewing many proposals, citing the firm's body of work and its fit with AAI's APEX plans. Firm Partner Kathy Weadon will lead the project for Place Collaborative. “We are excited to work with AAI and the APEX Student Team on this project and to help build the long-term vision of AAI APEX.”

About American Academy of Innovation

AAI is a public, tuition-free charter school in South Jordan, Utah. Its project-based framework provides students with unique opportunities to pursue their interests atop a solid educational foundation. Learn more at aaiutah.org.