Starting your architecture career is a big step, and where you begin makes a real difference. At Schmidt Associates, architectural graduates are empowered from day one with meaningful responsibilities, structured support, and a culture built around growth, mentorship, and trust.

Princess Davis, an architectural graduate, embodies what this experience looks like. She blends her artistic background, passion for storytelling, and commitment to community into every project she touches. Her day-to-day reflects the kind of real-world learning and collaborative culture that defines life at Schmidt Associates.

Real Work, Right Away

From the moment you join the team, architectural graduates at Schmidt Associates are given real opportunities to contribute. Whether developing early-phase design concepts, collaborating on construction documents, or participating in stakeholder meetings, you’re not just observing—you’re helping drive progress.

“As a recent graduate, it meant a lot to know I was trusted to help move projects forward,” Princess said. “That trust early on, especially when it involved critical design choices, is incredibly motivating.”

Ready to start your career as an Architectural Graduate in Indianapolis? Kentucky? Explore open positions at Schmidt Associates and discover where your ideas can grow. View Opportunities

Support That Is Built In

Support at Schmidt Associates is intentional and consistent. Each week, the architecture team holds a structured Architectural Work Plan meeting to review individual workloads, realign priorities, and offer hands-on help when someone is feeling stretched.

“It’s not just about deadlines. It’s about people and recognizing that life is unpredictable. If your plate is full, someone steps in. You are never left to carry it alone.”

PRINCESS DAVIS

These weekly check-ins are a key part of how we live out Better On-Site, ensuring that our teams stay connected, supported, and aligned throughout every phase of a project.

 Mentorship at Every Level

Graduates work alongside professionals at every career stage, from early-career peers to architects with decades of experience. That diversity of perspective is part of what makes the mentorship culture so powerful.

“The more experienced team members are always open to questions, and they genuinely want to help,” Princess said. “What makes it even better is when they share their own stories—it makes things feel more personal. There’s a real sense of equality here, not a rigid hierarchy.”

The firm also hosts monthly Architectural Graduate Lunches, where new professionals gather to exchange ideas, study tips for the Architect Registration Examination (ARE), and build strong peer-to-peer networks.

 A Clear Path to Growth

At Schmidt Associates, professional development is not left to chance. Through personalized career pathing, emerging professionals are supported in building the careers they envision—whether that includes licensure, design leadership, project management, or specialties like sustainability or historic preservation.

“You feel like the firm is invested in your personalized long-term success. They want you to grow into the role that excites you, not just the next one on a checklist.”

PRINCESS DAVIS

Through mentorship, training opportunities, and consistent check-ins, team members are encouraged to pursue their passions and define what success looks like for them.

Inspired by Indianapolis

Working in the heart of downtown Indianapolis adds energy and creativity to each day. With our office located on Mass Ave, graduates are surrounded by public art, diverse restaurants, and a vibrant business community.

“The neighborhood itself feels alive, and that kind of ever-changing atmosphere keeps you on your toes and fuels your creativity,” Princess said.

Outside the office, Princess explores her creativity through painting, stays active through new adventures, and embraces her lifelong love for motorsports. Schmidt Associates’ work on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum has only fueled that passion, especially as her interest in Formula One continues to grow.

Designing With Empathy and Intention

Graduates are encouraged to approach design with intention, balancing creativity and function with empathy and insight. Princess brings her passion for problem-solving and storytelling into each project, working closely with owners and stakeholders to ensure spaces reflect not just vision but lived experience. Her values align closely with our Better Insight philosophy: listening first, then designing with purpose.

What You Will Find as an Architectural Graduate at Schmidt Associates:

• Real responsibility from the start
• Weekly check-ins that prioritize support
• Mentorship opportunities from experienced architects
• Graduate lunches for shared learning and connection
• Career pathing personalized to your goals
• Downtown location full of inspiration
• Inclusive culture where every voice matters

At Schmidt Associates, being an architectural graduate means more than learning the ropes. It means being trusted, supported, and challenged to grow in ways that align with your passions and goals. It means learning from experienced mentors, contributing to meaningful work, and feeling a true sense of belonging.

This is what it looks like to build a career in a place where collaboration, curiosity, and care are part of the everyday experience.

 Want to see where your journey could begin? Take a look at our current opportunities and explore what’s possible.