- Firm: Ruhnau Clarke Architects
- Photo Credit: RMA Photography
- Product(s) Used: CMU – 8x8x16 Precision MW Black 250, 8x8x16 Precision MW Sterling
- Awards: CMACN Merit Award for Education Design
About the Project
Led by Ruhnau Clarke Architects, the new Transportation and Advanced Technology Center at Pacific High School exemplifies how thoughtful design can address both educational and economic challenges. Our thanks to the team at Ruhnau Clarke Architects for sharing the full scope of their design story for this essential, life-changing project.
Project Origins
The San Bernardino City Unified School District initiated the project to replace outdated 1950s-era facilities with a modern center tailored to diesel technology training. With 94% of students economically disadvantaged and transportation jobs projected to grow by 20%, the district saw an opportunity to create meaningful pathways for disadvantaged communities to achieve living-wage careers. Rather than renovate, the school district chose to build California’s first comprehensive center of its kind—partnering with Ruhnau Clarke to bring this vision to life.
Design Timeline
Spanning five years (2018–2023), the project followed a traditional design-bid-build method. The extended timeline allowed for deep collaboration and master planning for the entire Pacific High School campus. Rather than treating this as an isolated building project, the district’s commitment to a deliberate process ensured the new Transportation and Advanced Technology Center would integrate seamlessly with existing facilities while positioning the campus for future growth and educational excellence.
The Strategic Choice of CMU
Concrete masonry units (CMU) is consistently selected for projects that need exceptional durability combined with design flexibility—facilities that must handle intensive daily use while maintaining their appearance over time. The material’s strength meets the demanding requirements of educational environments, from high-traffic areas to workshop spaces. CMU’s versatility also enabled the creation of visually compelling spaces that support heavy equipment training and resist damage without compromising aesthetics.
Material and Aesthetic Decisions
Precision CMU in natural gray was used to achieve a clean, monolithic look that aligns with high-tech industry standards and campus architecture. Projected CMU blocks add depth and visual interest, creating dynamic shadows that change throughout the day. Each decision served multiple purposes: delivering a professional appearance while providing thermal performance and acoustic control essential for both learning environments and heavy equipment operations.
Why ORCO?
ORCO proved to be the ideal partner for this demanding project through their combination of quality products, reliable delivery, and sustained engagement. Their local manufacturing capabilities ensured materials arrived on schedule—critical for maintaining the district’s timeline and budget. Unlike suppliers who disappear after orders are placed, ORCO’s team remained actively involved throughout construction, providing the technical support essential for a specialized facility.
Their precision CMU and projected blocks delivered the exact texture and consistency our design required, enabling us to achieve the monolithic aesthetic and visual depth that distinguishes this building. ORCO’s diverse finish options allowed us to create the professional, industry-appropriate appearance the district envisioned while meeting the project’s rigorous performance specifications.
Impact and Recognition
Within the first four months of opening, 190 students enrolled in the advanced technology program—representing 17% of Pacific High School’s entire student body. This overwhelming response validated the district’s vision and demonstrated the community’s hunger for these opportunities.
In addition, San Bernardino Valley College now brings courses directly to the campus, enabling dual enrollment opportunities that allow students to earn industry certifications before graduation. This building is a bridge to economic opportunity for a community in need. Students who might have struggled in traditional academic settings are discovering clear pathways to careers offering living wages in their own hometown—exactly what the district envisioned when they embarked on this ambitious project.
The project has earned multiple design awards, including the 2023 Learning by Design Award and the 2024 CASH/AIA Leroy F. Greene Design Award.
