Maddilyn Riester, Associate AIA
Architecture
Maddi began her higher education journey by earning her Associates in Science in Architectural Engineering Technology from Midlands Technical College in 2018, along with three certificates related within the field. She went to Clemson University and graduated with her Bachelor of Arts in Architecture in 2022 and earned her Master of Architecture from Clemson University of May 2024.
While at Clemson, Maddi was recognized on the Dean's and President's list. She was a mentor to the freshman class her junior year, helping students navigate their first year of the architecture program during the pandemic. She also received a Graduate Assistant position within the School of Architecture, coordinating events like the yearly Career Expo which hosts over 120 firms to campus.
During her fall semester of senior year, Maddi was accepted in the Community Build Program in Charleston, South Carolina, a program designed for students who wish to further their understanding and application of community centric architecture and building at full scale. Her class built the Mulberry Park Pavilion, which later launched the start of the Mulberry Park Food Forest, recognized by the Charleston Parks Conservancy in March 2024. During this time, she gained experience in steel fabrication, designing, cutting, and welding for the project.
Loving the hands-on experience and the community aspect, Maddi applied for the Community Build Certificate Program during her graduate studies and was accepted to the program for the entire 2023 year. Her class partnered with Green Heart - a school garden program - and constructed 80% of the project. Maddi was also able to work for a semester with the Charleston Parks Conservancy, being involved in community engagement, neighborhood association meetings, and designing graphics for them.
Completing her Comprehensive Studio, Maddi received an honorable mention for her and her partner's studio design proposal and received the Aspire 2024 Graduate Student Merit Award for their work.
After moving all around the state of South Carolina, Maddi is excited to be back home to Columbia and begin her career.
The Short(er) Story:
Clemson University: Masters of Architecture + Community Build Certificate, 2024
Clemson University: Bachelor of Arts in Architecture, Minor in Art, 2022
Midlands Technical College: Associates in Science in Architectural Engineering Technology, 2018 with Certificates in Architectural Systems and Codes, Architectural Computer Graphics, and Architectural Design Technology
American Institute of Architects, Associate Member, 2024-Present
Aspire Graduate Student Merit Award, 2024