Jermaine Parker
Architectural Associate
Jermaine is a Class of 2026 graduate of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where he earned his Bachelor of Architecture. He was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, where he attended Cummings K–8 Optional School and Middle College High School. His journey into architecture began with his grandfather, who frequently worked in construction throughout the community. From helping neighbors with demolition projects to helping build the house his family still lives in today, these experiences inspired Jermaine’s interest in the profession.
In Memphis, he participated in an after-school program called Knowledge Quest. During his time there, Jermaine developed a passion for community involvement and neighborhood development. As a result, he enrolled in a design-focused program through Knowledge Quest, which further strengthened his motivation to pursue a career in architecture. His lifelong goal is to strengthen and revitalize neighborhoods like his hometown of South Memphis in order to demonstrate that everyone has the potential to build a brighter future for themselves, even when their day-to-day circumstances may not reflect that possibility.
While in college, Jermaine worked a variety of jobs. From working in warehouses, where he learned how to collaborate with people from diverse backgrounds and personalities, to working alongside general contractors, where he gained a deeper understanding of the relationships among the various disciplines within the profession, each experience contributed to his professional growth. Combined with several architectural internships, these opportunities helped shape the mindset, work ethic, and collaborative approach that he carries with him today.
In his free time, Jermaine enjoys spending time with family and friends, working out, gaming, cooking, discovering new third places, traveling, and researching topics that interest him, such as the formation of black holes. He looks forward to what the future holds and believes the team here will help prepare him for the opportunities and challenges ahead.
