Architecture, Culture & Community: Insights from the Front Lines
Jerel McCants brings more than technical expertise to the stage — he brings a practitioner’s perspective on how design shapes culture and community. Available for keynote presentations, panel discussions, and conference workshops.
Where Architecture Meets Scholarship
Jerel McCants is not merely an architect who presents at conferences — he is a published scholar, active practitioner, and community advocate who has built a body of work that informs every presentation he gives.
His keynotes challenge audiences to think critically about the built environment: who it serves, who it excludes, and how architects and planners can do better. Drawing on real projects, historical research, and direct community engagement, Jerel delivers presentations that are both intellectually rigorous and immediately actionable.
Past speaking engagements include national architecture conventions, government contracting events, and academic institutions.
Principal Architect • Published Author • National Keynote Speaker • 20+ Years of Practice • SBA 8(a) Certified • Licensed in 6 States
Speaking Topics
Each keynote is tailored to the specific audience, event format, and objectives. The topics below represent Jerel’s areas of deepest expertise and scholarship.
The Architecture of Segregation
A deep examination of how design and urban planning decisions throughout American history have reinforced racial and social segregation — and the profession’s responsibility to design for community. Based on Jerel’s published book of the same name.
Sustainable Design for Civic Buildings
Drawing from real government projects including fire stations, schools, and municipal facilities, this keynote presents practical approaches to sustainable design within the constraints of public budgets and procurement processes.
From Concept to Community Impact
The architectural process demystified — how does a building go from an idea to a finished structure? And more importantly, how do the decisions made along the way shape whether a building truly serves its community?
Faith-Based Architecture: Designing Sacred Spaces
Houses of worship are among the most complex and meaningful projects an architect can undertake. This presentation explores the unique design, programming, and community engagement considerations required for religious facilities.
Small Firm, Big Projects: Winning Government Contracts
A candid, practical guide to navigating SBA 8(a), DBE, and MBE certifications — and using them as competitive advantages to win government architecture and design contracts. Built from Jerel’s direct experience building a certified firm.
The Future of Educational Facilities
Schools built in the mid-20th century were designed for a model of learning that no longer exists. This keynote examines what 21st-century educational environments should look like — and how districts can achieve them within budget.
Past Speaking Engagements
National Architecture Convention
Keynote Speaker — Architecture & Community
BNI Network Partners
Presenter — Architecture as Community Development
School of Architecture
Guest Lecturer — Building Your Practice as a Minority Architect
Conference Presentations & Panels
Government contracting events, civic planning forums, and church architecture consultations across the Southeast.
Awards & Honors
McCants Architecture has earned recognition from industry organizations and peers for design excellence, community impact, and professional leadership.
AIA Tampa Bay Chapter President
Elected President of the AIA Tampa Bay Chapter in 2022. American Institute of Architects member in good standing since the founding of the firm in 2009.
LEED Green Associate
Credentialed in sustainable design through the U.S. Green Building Council.
SBA 8(a) Certified
Small Business Administration 8(a) certification enabling federal government contracting.
DBE & MBE Certified
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise and Minority Business Enterprise certified.
Media Coverage
Jerel McCants and JMA have been featured in broadcast television, radio, and national publications.
Television Feature
Jerel McCants featured in a Bay News 9 segment highlighting architecture, community design, and his work across Tampa Bay.
Radio Interview
Featured on WMNF 88.5 FM, Tampa’s independent community radio station, discussing architecture and the built environment.
Magazine Profile
Canvas Rebel featured Jerel in a profile exploring his journey as a principal architect, author, and advocate for purposeful design.
“What’s Good in Tampa Bay”
Featured on Fox 13’s “What’s Good in Tampa Bay” segment, spotlighting the firm’s impact and contributions to the Tampa community.
“Four Black Architects You Should Know”
The Manual named Jerel McCants among four Black architects reshaping the profession — recognizing his work, his voice, and his commitment to equity in design.
Small Business of the Year
Jerel McCants Architecture, Inc. recognized as the South Tampa Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year — honoring the firm’s growth, community impact, and design leadership.
Book Jerel to Speak
Jerel is available for keynote presentations, panel discussions, workshop facilitation, and academic lectures. Please provide details about your event and we will respond within two business days.