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Albemarle Career Exploration Academy Celebrates Milestone with Topping Out Ceremony

By 
Abigail León
Abigail Leόn
November 20, 2025
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The Albemarle Career Exploration (ACE) Academy Lambs Lane in Virginia reached a major construction milestone as the community gathered to celebrate the placement of the final steel beam during a topping out ceremony.
Construction site

The Albemarle Career Exploration (ACE) Academy Lambs Lane reached a major construction milestone as the community gathered to celebrate the placement of the final steel beam during a topping out ceremony. After being signed by the staff, students, community, and project team members, the beam was lifted into place, representing the dedication to growing career-focused educational programs for students.

Ultimately this building is a tool. It’s one designed to elevate engagement, challenge students to think critically and immerse students in authentic experiences that build confidence and agency.
MEAGAN MAYNARD, CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION (CTE) COORDINATOR, ALBEMARLE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

The new 62,000-square-foot academy in Virginia brings together the community's vision developed through a collaborative process. It creates state-of-the-art spaces where learning, exploration, and connections will happen. The academy is designed to empower and serve up to 400 students through innovation, career-focused experiences, and authentic engagement. This building represents an investment in preparing graduates to lead, solve problems, and shape the future beyond its walls.

Very soon, 400 students per day will have access to a place with specialized content, hands-on experiences and spaces for them to build their futures.
CHARLES TILLEY, AIA, REFP, PRINCIPAL, QUINN EVANS

Take a virtual tour of the ACE Academy which is scheduled to open in fall 2026.

Read the full press release here.

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