APLA Alum Named USACE Architect of the Year

Allen is a Registered Architect with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and is based in Huntsville, Alabama. A graduate of the School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture (APLA), Allen was recognized as the USACE 2025 Architect of the Year in June for his contributions to the architectural field and 20 years of service with USACE.

“My time at Auburn laid the foundation for my career,” Allen said. “I constantly fall back on the lessons I learned in studio—they’ve shaped the way I approach design, problem-solving and collaboration.”

As a Subject Matter Expert for USACE, Allen specializes in the development of standard designs for three critical Army facility types: the Physical Fitness Facility (PFF), Soldier Performance Readiness Center (SPRC) and Soldier Fitness Testing and Training Facility (SFTTF). He creates the written technical criteria and 35% design drawings as a foundation for these types of projects for Army installations across the world.

“My focus is on establishing consistent, mission-aligned and functional design standards that support soldier readiness, training and performance on an enterprise-wide scale,” Allen said, explaining that while he doesn’t oversee construction, his design work plays a role in each facility.

Over the next four years, Allen will advise design reviews for over 160 SPRC facilities, ensuring quality, standards and coordination with USACE district offices.

“Auburn emphasized the value of patience and persistence in design, encouraging me not to settle prematurely but to push boundaries creatively,” he continued, explaining that he investigates as many directions as possible before narrowing the focus of the design.

“I learned to embrace the process of trial and error,” he said. “Even ideas that initially seem unworkable are worth revisiting, as they often reveal unexpected potential when given time and perspective.”

Allen keeps tabs on his Auburn roots by participating in APLA’s annual Continuing Education offerings, which help him round out his design skills. He applies these lessons to each project.

“Above all, I was taught to approach design holistically—considering the entire project rather than isolated parts—to ensure that every element works together cohesively and contributes to an integrated, meaningful solution,” he said.