Jacobs Partners with the Florida A&M University to Foster Inclusion and Empower Future Architects and Engineers

At Jacobs, we understand that "inclusion" is a verb, not a noun. It means being transparent and taking action on our statements, commitments and initiatives that drive meaningful, measurable change. It means creating a culture of belonging where everyone can thrive — a culture that we call TogetherBeyond℠. 

Empowering the next generation

As part of TogetherBeyond, Jacobs developed a Global Action Plan for Advancing Justice and Equality to bring about transformation in the  communities Jacobs serves and to foster a culture of inclusivity. This comprehensive plan includes early-stage initiatives that invest in young, underrepresented students, offering them a vision of a future filled with possibilities. In line with this commitment, Jacobs has partnered with the Florida A&M University School of Architecture + Engineering Technology (FAMU SAET) to provide new lab equipment for and enhancements to its student digital fabrication lab to empower the next generation of architects and engineers.

Named the Kaizen Collab, the digital fabrication lab facilities will equip students with the necessary tools and resources to excel in their academic pursuits and future professional careers. Qualified FAMU SAET students will also have an opportunity to gain real world experience through an internship with Jacobs. These internships will allow students to apply their knowledge, learn from industry experts and build valuable connections. 

Kaizen inspires continuous improvement through collective transformation and resonates with the architectural design process. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptation, Kaizen fuels innovation, encourages experimentation, exploration and the pursuit of new, groundbreaking solutions. Collab is a play on the word collaboration – in this lab, students will explore the intersection between technology and design, and the collaborative process of creating, facilitated by this partnership between Jacobs and FAMU.  

Jacobs Senior Vice President Katus Watson was on site for the naming of the new Kaizen Collab and gave a heartfelt speech and call to action:

“Dr. Martin Luther King Jr once said: ‘The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.’  Dr. King eloquently breaks down education’s purpose. It’s not just about memorizing facts; it’s about sharpening our minds to analyze, question, and understand deeply. Pairing intelligence with good character molds us into responsible, empathetic individuals. So, as we leave this event today, let us remember Dr. King’s words. In addition to the lab that is built here, let us also build bridges of understanding and compassion. Let us equip our students not only with knowledge of their craft but also with empathy and a sense of responsibility.”

By investing in young talent, providing resources and fostering meaningful connections, Jacobs and FAMU are creating a brighter future for the next generation of architects, engineers and construction professionals. 

At Jacobs, STEAM and sustainability are at the heart of our business and we’re united in developing and delivering a global STEAM education and engagement program that demonstrates our commitment to equality, inclusion and diversity. To us, STEAM encompasses our core values and aligns with TogetherBeyond and Jacobs’ Action Plan for Advancing Justice and Equality, the UN Sustainable Development Goals, our Jacobs Employee Networks and our Collectively strategic causes.