Tennessee Tech University seeks a visionary architect-educator to serve as the Founding Director of its new School of Architecture. The Director will lead the launch, continual development, and accreditation of a new Bachelor of Architecture program that prepares graduates to become competent, skilled, professionally licensed, and community-minded architects. This search seeks a collaborative and innovative leader with the vision to build a nationally distinctive architecture program from the ground up. Supported by Tennessee Tech’s strong culture of cross-campus collaboration, the Director will be able to focus on advancing curricular excellence, developing state-of-the-art facilities, promoting professional and practice readiness, and recruiting and mentoring outstanding faculty and students. The Director is a full-time, 12-month faculty appointment at the rank of Associate Professor or Professor and reports to the Provost.

Strategic Leadership

Provide strategic leadership for the growth of the Bachelor of Architecture program, establishing a distinctive vision aligned with Tennessee Tech’s mission and goals.

Academic and Administrative Oversight

Oversee curriculum refinement, assessment, and accreditation readiness (NAAB).

Coordinate the renovation of facilities to create state-of-the-art studio space, classrooms, and labs.

Recruit, mentor, and support faculty and staff, cultivating a collegial, collaborative, and respectful culture.

Guide the admissions process and student recruitment strategy in partnership with the Division of Communication and Enrollment.

Cultivate relationships with external partners, practitioners, and community organizations to enhance student career readiness and program impact.

Provide administrative oversight of faculty, budget planning, and resource allocation.

Teaching and Scholarship

Teach courses in the Bachelor of Architecture program and contribute to its intellectual and creative culture. Support scholarship and/or professional practice that enhances architectural education.

Accreditation and Assessment

Lead the process of seeking initial NAAB accreditation and ensure compliance with all accreditation standards. Develop and oversee ongoing program assessment, continuous improvement, and professional relevance.

Serve as the primary liaison with NAAB and relevant professional bodies.

Required Qualifications:

A minimum of a master’s degree in architecture (NAAB-accredited M.Arch or equivalent).

Demonstrated record of excellence in architectural education, including teaching architecture studios, lecture-based courses, and seminars.

Evidence of an established record of peer-reviewed creative work and/or scholarly productivity.

Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

Experience working with NAAB accreditation processes.

Leadership experience in higher education, architectural practice, or related settings.

Preferred qualifications:

Ph.D. or other terminal research degree in architecture or a closely related field.

Professional licensure in architecture.

Experience in strategic planning, curriculum development, program assessment, and budget and resource management.