JO ALTER
Associate AIA, M. Arch
Senior Project Manager • Designer
CERTIFICATIONS
State of Michigan Notary Public
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
American Institute of Architects (AIA) Associate
Michigan Historic Preservation Network (MHPN)
Serves on Village Historic District Commission for the City of Warren (2021-2024)
EDUCATIONS
Bachelor of Science in Architecture / Lawrence Technological University
Completion of Architectural Experience Program AXP
Master of Architecture / Lawrence Technological University
HONORS
Dean’s Honor Roll / Magna cum laude
Graduate with Distinction
PUBLICATIONS
Roseville-East Pointe East Sider Newspaper / Student Places and Design Contest
North Macomb Voice / Student Designs Benefit Habitat for Humanity
CREATIVE BRAND
The ability to see design problems and projects through the eyes of the client is Jo's superpower. How will they navigate the space? How will good design enrich their job and how they work in the space? Architecture is more than the walls of the building, says Jo, and if you are not a specialist in what the client does, how can you be sensitive to their needs?
Jo received her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Lawrence Technological University in June 2014 and December 2020, respectively.
UNBOXED
As the sole student volunteer on a DesignTeam + led project in her hometown of Warren, Jo collaborated on designing a community park that vastly improved resident safety. That experience led to an invitation to join DesignTeam+ and inspired her to serve as the architectural representative for the Village of Warren Historic District Commission. Engaging with community members on projects, Jo sees how the spark of an idea can grow to better communities and strengthen families.
ETHOS AND PASSION
Animals (her rescue dog Lilly), family, and giving back to the community. Jo's dream project is a design centered around animals. At DTP, we leave a part of ourselves in every project.
SURPRISE!
Jo's favorite hobby is sleep. She is crazy organized. Creativity is all over the place in the initial stages of a project, and Jo is sometimes seen tidying up her workspace to clear her head.
WANDERLUST
Jo's heart is in the City of Detroit. It is her favorite place. Growing up on Detroit's east side, Jo had the opportunity to work on transforming the original Jennings Memorial Hospital into senior living. This project has personal significance for her through her family's connection to the hospital. Jo's love of historic preservation began with that connection and growing up in a diverse architectural environment.