Regional Training Institute Schoolhouse
Raymond F. Rees Training Center, Hermiston, Oregon
Program
18,000 SF pre-engineered metal building for Oregon Military Department housing Education, Administration, and Medic Training programs. Features classrooms, private offices, open office spaces, and support areas. Design-build delivery with Fortis Construction. Achieved LEED Silver and SEED certification. Completed August 2020.
Description
The Regional Training Institute represents a strategic transformation from planned historic building renovation to new construction, delivering superior programmatic efficiency and shared infrastructure within budget constraints. Design team analysis revealed that new construction would better serve the client's needs compared to the substantial costs of seismic upgrades and hazardous material abatement required for existing facilities. The project exemplifies how thoughtful architectural design can elevate cost-effective building systems—transforming a basic metal building into a sophisticated facility that harmonizes with the historic cantonment context while expressing the military's forward-looking vision.
The facility bridges past and present through careful architectural detailing that respects the campus's historic character while providing cutting-edge learning environments for diverse training programs. Drawing on workplace design expertise, the project features flexible, collaborative office spaces that enhance productivity and teamwork, enabling the team to navigate complex requirements including anti-terrorism measures and fire protection systems.
My Role
As Senior Project Manager for SERA Architects, I led the design-build partnership with Fortis Construction, directing the strategic pivot from renovation to new construction through detailed feasibility analysis and client consultation. Managed the complete project lifecycle including architecture, landscape architecture, and interior design coordination, while overseeing structural/civil engineering, building envelope design, and audio/visual systems integration. Coordinated environmental certification processes and all permitting and jurisdictional efforts across project phases.
