July 1, 2026
Every summer, Johnson Architecture welcomes architecture and design students into the studio to gain real world experience alongside our team. Interns aren’t just observing – they’re working on real projects, asking questions, attending meetings, and learning what it takes to bring good design to life.
This summer, we’re excited welcome back Cameron Nelson and introduce Melani Jimenez. Both have jumped right in, bringing curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to learn that has made them great additions to the team.
Cameron Nelson, University of Tennessee College of Architecture and Design
After joining JAI as an intern in the summer of 2025, Cameron returned over winter break and is back again this summer. His decision to join us again this summer speaks to both his passion for architecture and the relationships he’s built with our team.
Cameron first encountered JAI through an internship with his tribe, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI). Inspired by a background in art and wood carving, he hopes to one day start his own architecture firm and serve his tribe, which currently has no licensed architects.
During his time with the firm, Cameron has worked on a wide range of projects, including the Arrowmont Master Plan, Christian Academy of Knoxville Master Plan, conceptual design for a mixed-use development in Jamestown, and several custom residential homes. As his experience has grown, so have his responsibilities. He’s developed skills in construction drawings, 3D modeling, and design visualization while participating in client meetings and project reviews. Working on different project types has given him a better understanding of how architects, clients, and consultants work together to create places that serve their communities.
Outside the studio, Cameron has earned Dean’s List recognition at the University of Tennessee and received Best in Show at the Annual Cherokee Art Show. His long-term goal is to continue developing as a designer while using architecture to make a lasting impact in the communities he serves.
Melani Jimenez, University of Tennessee College of Architecture and Design
Melani joined Johnson Architecture this summer and has already become involved in both project work and marketing efforts.
As a fourth-year Bachelor of Architecture student at the University of Tennessee, Melani has contributed to the Brush Creek Master Plan, several custom residential projects, and a variety of marketing initiatives. She’s eager to learn and enjoys finding opportunities to contribute whenever she’s needed.
Melani first connected with Johnson Architecture through the IA Collaborative mentorship program, where JAI Principal and Vice President Joey Staats served as her mentor. A Student Ambassador for the UT College of Architecture and Design, she has also held leadership roles with the National Organization of Minority Architecture Students and served as a teaching assistant for second-year architecture studios.
Her experience studying abroad in Tokyo, fluency in English and Spanish, and strong interest in both design and communication continue to shape her perspective as she prepares for a career in architecture.
Investing in the Future
Supporting students doesn’t stop with our internship program.
In 2021, Johnson Architecture established the Johnson Architecture Scholarship at the University of Tennessee College of Architecture and Design to help students pursue opportunities such as study abroad while encouraging greater diversity within the profession. Since then, the scholarship has been awarded to 13 students.
Many of the architects and designers who have built their careers at JAI started by learning alongside experienced teammates. We hope today’s interns carry what they’ve learned here throughout their careers and, one day, pass that knowledge on to others.
