Michael Atkinson grew up in a small rural SC town, working summers on construction sites for his father. He attended Clemson University to pursue Architecture as a profession, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Design. Feeling a disconnect between his academic education and practical training, he moved to Charleston to intern at various Architectural offices. Seeking to broaden his horizons, he moved to Los Angeles to attend the Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCIARC), where he graduated with a Master of Architecture. While at SCIARC, he became closely involved with the operations of the school as the Graduate Director Assistant and numerous student staff positions. After graduation, he continued his practical training in Los Angeles on large scale Urban Developments, Public Work projects, and Luxury Estate Homes. He returned to SC in 2005, telecommuting to his office in LA until settling in Charleston and joining AJ Architects in 2008. Since then, he has continued his practical training in the areas of Historic Preservation, Adaptive Reuse and Modern Additions. Professionally, he became an Associate AIA member in 2008 and completed his IDP requirements in 2011. Since becoming an Associate AIA member, he served as an AIA:Charleston Director from 2009-2011, as the AIA:SC Director of Emerging Professionals from 2011-1012, and is currently serving the National Associates Committee as the 2013-2014 South Atlantic Regional Associate Director. Continuing his interest in educational outreach and community service, he taught at Trident Technical College, volunteers at Learning By Design (LBD:SC), and coaches Charleston Peninsula Youth Sports.