Careers in architecture and real estate offer strong earning potential, creative impact, and the ability to influence the community around us. Whether your interest lies in design, business, marketing, or project management, these career paths can provide access to successful and rewarding careers.
To help local students make that link, the Community Connections program recently hosted a field trip for local high school students interested in architecture and real estate that included construction site tours hosted by Riley Architect Services, and visits to Barger Realty and Trifecta Real Estate.
Community Connections is an innovative workforce development program that helps students learn about local career prospects and build relationships that could lead to internships, job shadowing, and other professional development opportunities. It is coordinated by Graves County Economic Development (GCED) in partnership with Graves County and Mayfield Independent Schools, the City of Mayfield, Mayfield/Graves County Chamber of Commerce, the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, and the West Kentucky Workforce Board.
“This trip allowed the students to, again, learn about these careers that exist in our own backyard, plus get a sneak peek at our newest fire station, which was really cool,” said Eric Walker, community education director for both Mayfield and Graves County schools.
“Learning about the various jobs and skills used in these areas are pieces of information these students can take back and examine if the things they heard might lead them to a career that will be rewarding for them and for our community, as well.”
“The Community Connections program is all about opening doors for our students and showing them what’s possible right here at home,” said Mayfield/Graves County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Katie Beth McCord. “Experiences like this give students a firsthand look at careers in architecture and real estate, while also building meaningful connections with local professionals. We are incredibly grateful for our local businesses and partners who invest their time in these students, taking time out of their workday to share their knowledge and experiences. When students can see these opportunities up close, it helps them better understand their own potential and the role they can play in shaping the future of our community.”
Don Riley, Elizabeth Miller Riley, Chad Clark, Sydney Pajor, and Kayli Leonard of Riley Architect Services, PLLC guided students through three significant post-tornado projects currently under construction—Mayfield City Hall, the Mayfield Fire Department, and the Graves County Administration Building. During the site visits, the team shared how architects and interior designers influence the ways people live, work, and interact with spaces, while also explaining how the profession blends artistic vision with scientific, technical, and structural knowledge.
“It was a pleasure to spend time with Mayfield High School students who are interested in architecture and design,” said Elizabeth Riley. “Their attentiveness and engagement made the day especially meaningful. We hope events like this help students see the opportunities available to pursue careers in architecture and interior design right here in the Mayfield community, and we appreciate Graves County Economic Development for coordinating experiences that make those connections possible.”
Riley Architect Services, PLLC provides thoughtful architectural and interior design services for commercial, civic, and community-centered projects. With a commitment to meaningful design and a vibrant, sustainable community, the firm blends creativity, technical knowledge, and practical problem-solving to help clients bring their vision to life. From initial concept through construction documentation, Riley Architect Services is known for collaboration, clear communication, and careful attention to detail. Their work reflects a belief that well-designed spaces can serve people well, strengthen communities, and stand the test of time.
Next, the students visited Barger Realty where Principal Broker/Owner Justin Suiter led the students on a tour of a listed residential property and then explained the work that goes into marketing a home to a potential buyer and what is involved in the actual purchase. He and the Barger staff shared their background and experiences of working in the regional market and steps to becoming an agent.
“It was great to spend some time with these students and give them insight into what the home buying process looks like,” said Suiter. “They were very engaged and had great questions for me and some of the other realtors in our office. I hope we shed some light on what opportunities are available here at home when these students make it into the workforce.”
Barger Realty proudly serves Mayfield and the surrounding communities. Known for personalized service and deep market knowledge, Barger Realty guides clients through buying, selling, and investing with confidence and clarity. The company prioritizes relationships, transparency, and results, ensuring each client’s goals remain the focus throughout the process. Whether assisting first-time buyers or experienced investors, Barger Realty combines modern marketing strategies with hometown values. Their commitment to integrity and customer satisfaction has established them as a trusted name in the local real estate market.
Keanu Murphy, partner, Trifecta Real Estate Services, hosted lunch for the students then provided a presentation. "I enjoyed showing our local high school students some new sides of the real estate industry they might not have known about,” said Murphy. “We talked about our local commercial real estate market, its impact on their surroundings, and how people make decisions as users and investors in our community and region.”
“Our school systems and business community have an obligation to highlight opportunities available to young adults early and often,” he added. “As our world rapidly changes, maintaining strong connections and collaboration between private-and public-sector leaders is essential to supporting our students. High school is a key time for building confidence, and students benefit from opportunities to explore and interact in the real world. My goal was to broaden their perspective on future possibilities, and it was my pleasure to be part of it."
Trifecta Real Estate, based in Mayfield, offers comprehensive services for buyers, sellers, and investors. Built on a foundation of expertise, innovation, and local insight, Trifecta Real Estate delivers strategic solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs. The firm emphasizes market analysis, strong negotiation, and responsive communication to achieve successful outcomes. With a focus on residential and commercial properties, Trifecta Real Estate combines professional excellence with community pride. Their results-driven approach and commitment to client success make them a reliable partner in the Mayfield real estate market.
GCED President Jason Lemle said these field trips are important to help students connect their interests with the reality of a career close to home. “Often students assume they have to leave the area to pursue a specific career,” said Lemle. “We’re showing them they can follow their dreams, do exciting, rewarding work and stay close to home where life is more affordable and they have a support system. We are very grateful to our hosts for sharing their time and talents with our students and creating learning opportunities for them whenever possible.”
Community Connection visits continue throughout the school year.