Blinn alumnus builds a career shaping communities through architecture

Former student discovers his passion for architecture in Blinn’s hands-on studio courses

November 17, 2025

When Robert Reyes enrolled at Bryan Collegiate High School, architecture was not part of his plan.

“I liked soccer, so I thought I would do something with sports management,” Reyes said. “Architecture was not even on my radar.”

That changed during his senior year, when he enrolled in his first architecture course through the dual credit partnership between Bryan Collegiate High School and the Blinn College District. The class, taught by Craig Jeffrey, Assistant Dean for the Division of Arts, Kinesiology, and Agriculture, introduced Reyes to the hands-on creativity and problem-solving that define the field.

“I took the class thinking it would be the easy route,” Reyes said, “but I just loved it. It felt less like school and more like being in a studio, sketching, cutting, building, and exploring ideas. It was fun. That is what hooked me.”

After graduating high school, Reyes continued his education in the Blinn College Architecture Program, which offers two 60-credit-hour degree pathways. Students can pursue an Associate of Arts in Architecture designed for transfer into a bachelor’s degree program, or an Associate of Arts in Architecture (Field of Study), which provides a foundation for entering the workforce directly. Blinn students begin working with architectural graphics, design principles, computer-aided design software, and architectural history in their first semesters, allowing them to build a strong portfolio early in their academic careers.

“The classes at Blinn are very hands-on,” Reyes said. “When I moved on to Texas A&M, I realized that experience gave me an advantage. I already knew how to draw, how to model, and how to think in terms of space and design.”

After completing his bachelor’s degree in university studies at Texas A&M, Reyes earned his Master of Architecture from the university in 2019. Before graduating, he accepted a position with Fitzpatrick Architects, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Dallas Firm of the Year for 2019.

Today, Reyes is a project manager with the firm, overseeing projects from concept through construction. His portfolio includes a middle school and administration building for Westwood ISD, a church project in College Station, and a bank in Tyler.

“It is rewarding to see the impact a building has on the community,” Reyes said. “When you walk through a completed school and see students and teachers enjoying the space, you realize the difference good design can make.”

Reyes now works remotely from Bryan and is in the process of earning his professional architecture license. He remains in touch with Jeffrey and hopes to return to Blinn one day as an instructor.

“Craig planted the seed. That is where it all started,” Reyes said. “One day, I would love to come back and teach a course here and help students discover what architecture can be.”

Reflecting on his path, Reyes encourages students to explore their interests and not be discouraged if the journey takes time.

“If you like drawing, computers, and hands-on creative work, try one architecture class at Blinn,” Reyes said. “If you enjoy it, there is a path. If you want it and work for it, you will find your way.”

For more information about the Blinn College Architecture Program, visit www.blinn.edu/architecture.