Joe Vela
Principal
Bachelor of Architecture, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Collaboration:
I want people to remember that Aedis is a firm that collaborates with our clients. We want to make what can be a challenging process enjoyable. In the end we want the client, and those that worked with us, to appreciate our service-oriented style and willingness to always help out for the betterment of the project.
Most Memorable Projects
First, there was the Half Moon Bay High School Project. Not only was the project a nice project, but it was in a beautiful place to drive to for a job site.
Second, there was the Cosmetology Project at San Jose City College. It was an extremely challenging modernization project. We were strategically able to fit seemingly incompatible programs (Cosmetology & Reprographics) into an existing building with very limiting physical constraints. The client was very happy with the outcome.
Outside the office…
I am our in-house weather geek/nerd. Tinkering/do-it-yourself projects are always present at the Vela household. I like working around the house. Whether it is mowing the lawn, fixing the fence, remodeling or painting, the house is a never-ending project. I also like to coach baseball with my two kids. Bike riding is our latest activity. And of course we like to travel when possible.
Outreach
I am a member of the School Site Council for the school that my children attend. I have also recently volunteered as a member of The San Jose Elks Lodge service organization.
“I can’t overemphasize that it is not just classrooms that we design, but whole communities where people can spend a third of their daily lives. We have the opportunity to really impact a person’s day-to-day environment. Architecture at Aedis provides a never-ending flow of projects that are always challenging and fun!”