Manny Auma

Architecture Staff

BCDM Apprentice Academy
Manny is the first candidate of the BCDM Apprentice Academy and began in the Summer of 2020.  This program was created to pilot high school students into unique career pathways in architecture, construction management and the construction trades.

The program began with creating an architectural design of a project and progressed sequentially, over the course of one year, from construction to project completion. As a candidate, Manny was able to experience all disciplines involved with the design and construction trades by executing each activity with real-world, hands-on learning. This hands-on experience was supplemented with in-depth instruction and mentorship (research, videos, field trips, and working alongside professionals in the field).

Upon completion of his initial project, the Academy helped Manny to identify his strengths and career direction, which he defined as architecture and construction. The academy then worked with Manny to customize two additional follow-up projects in his focused areas of interest.

Manny’s Role at BCDM
Manny has taken on a full-time position with BCDM Architects following his high school graduation. He continues to work with professionals to develop his skills in the architectural and construction fields.  This opportunity has provided him proficiency in Revit to be able to model existing buildings, develop drawings, and create details, and hands-on experience in various construction disciplines (excavation, drywalling, door hanging, trimming, and framing). Manny continues to work from schematic design through permit drawings, allowing him to touch every element and discipline throughout the design process.

When not working, he enjoys making instrumentals for other people’s songs and even creates full songs with his own vocals.

Academic
Omaha Central High School

What is one of your biggest accomplishments?
So far, my greatest accomplishment is achieving the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America.  To achieve the rank of Eagle Scout requires a service project. My project took place at the Holy Family Shrine in Gretna, NE.  Several volunteers and I designed and constructed signage for the 14 Stations of the Cross adjacent to the Shrine. These stations provide an opportunity for visitors to strengthen their faith and a place for reflection and prayer.

What is your favorite place you have traveled and why?
My Boy Scouts trip to Estes Park, Colorado was a great experience. As part of a troop, I participated in a service project that included removing an invasive plant species in the forest. About 10 of us worked for 8 hours pulling these plants by hand. Although it was hard work, it was rewarding knowing that I helped keep a part of Estes Park beautiful. It was interesting to experience the difference between hiking in the thin air of the mountains and the lower plains of Nebraska, and I’m happy it meant we were able to stop a little more often to soak in the amazing views.