February 21, 2025 KnoxNews Names Staats (‘09) to 40 Under 40
The summer after his sophomore year at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s College of Architecture and Design, Joey Staats (’09) was preparing to return home to West Virginia. However, his now-wife, Melissa (’08), encouraged him to explore internship opportunities that would keep him in the area during the break.
“We pulled out a phone book and looked up all the architecture firms in the area,” Staats recalled. “I called almost every one of them.” Despite the challenges of securing an internship during the recession, he landed a position at Foxhollow Goodson Group. That opportunity turned into an eight-year tenure with the firm after graduation, shaping his leadership skills and sparking an interest in management. In 2015, he transitioned to Johnson Architecture Inc. (JAI).
“I had big dreams when I joined JAI,” Staats said. “At the time, I still had two exams left to complete my architecture license, so that was a top priority. I took the valuable experience from my previous firm, grew under the mentorship of seasoned professionals at JAI, and openly shared my goals as I worked toward them.”
His dedication paid off, and in 2022, he became a partner at JAI. Now serving as vice president and principal architect, Staats was recently recognized in the 2024 40 Under 40, presented by Knox News, honoring influential changemakers in East Tennessee.
Throughout his career, Staats has contributed to a range of projects, including commercial office spaces, religious and medical facilities, and senior living communities. However, in recent years, educational design has become his primary passion.
“Designing a school is a unique experience,” he explained. “In committee meetings, you’re not only discussing student capacity and classroom numbers – in some instances, you’re also developing the identity of the school through the selection of mascots and school colors. It’s exciting to look at the overall uniqueness of a campus beyond just traditional architectural involvement.
His passion for education stems from his grandfather, who served as superintendent of Wood County Schools in Parkersburg, West Virginia. Inspired by that legacy, Staats prioritizes people-first designs, carefully considering classroom size, school security, and intuitive layouts to foster learning environments.
One of his most meaningful projects was Lakeway Christian Academy in White Pine, Tennessee, which created a lasting connection with the community.
“I still follow them on Facebook and love seeing events take place on the campus we designed,” he said. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see people actively using and enjoying that space.”
Staats maintains strong ties to UT and the college through JAI’s involvement in multiple campus projects, including Rocky Top Dining Hall. He also mentors students through IA Collaborative, a student organization focusing on the professional development of interior architecture students.
As a mentor, he discusses career paths, encourages job shadowing at JAI, and helps host events. Additionally, he volunteers as a guest critic for UT students during their midterm and final presentations, providing real-world feedback while staying engaged with faculty and students.
JAI, founded by Daryl Johnson (’84), employs 17 college graduates and actively supports the next generation of architects. The firm launched the Johnson Architecture Scholarship in 2021 to promote access and inclusivity in the profession and encourage study abroad experiences.
As proud UT alumni, Staats and his wife share their love for Tennessee with their young sons, Camden and Avery, through campus visits and athletic events—continuing a family tradition of orange and white pride.
