,MAYS LANDING - A team of five students from the Atlantic County Institute of Technology took first place in the New Jersey Technology Student Association Architectural Design competition and is now headed to Nashville, Tennessee, to compete at the 2025 TSA National Conference at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center later in June. They will represent New Jersey in the architecture category, competing against nearly 140 teams from across the country.
“This opportunity unlocks doors for our students to be featured on a national stage, where their talent, innovation, and hard work are recognized by industry professionals and educators from across the country,” Superintendent Phil Guenther said. “This success reflects the strength of our programs and the bright futures ahead for our students.”
The team’s project, guided by ACIT’s Computer-Aided Drafting and Design instructor Drew Holmes, exceeded every element of the challenge.
“Every year TSA gives the students a new challenge. This year, they designed a museum, and once again, these students went beyond meeting the challenge - they elevated it,” Holmes said. “When they’re given a problem, they work hard until it’s solved.”
Team members include:
• Miley Rockleman, a senior in ACIT’s Medical program, who was the project manager
• Octavio Leonardo-Martinez, responsible for the site work and technical drawings
• Nicole Cincotti, who designed interior systems including the HVAC and utilities
• Aidan Licolli, who focused on the symbolism and spatial flow of the layout
• Marianyelis Cruz, who contributed to both design elements and presentation preparation
• Syncere Sewell, who worked on compiling materials for the group’s binder
With a projected cost of $19 million, this six-month-long project features a war themed, compass-shaped museum that balances ambition with thoughtful planning. At its heart is a U-boat, serving as both a historical reference and architectural centerpiece. Oriented north to symbolize progress, the compass’s wings provide a unique immersive experience, complete with drop-down video screens and interactive exhibits.
The museum is fully ADA-compliant, featuring ramp access, an elevator, and thoughtful layout decisions. War exhibits are housed on the first floor, while communal areas like a theater and café are located upstairs, intentionally placed to give visitors time to reflect on what they’ve experienced below, the design team explained.
The project also aims to deeply connect national history with local heritage.
“We wanted to focus right here in New Jersey, where our roots are and where we are making a difference. Importantly, it ties all war related content back to New Jersey’s local history, creating a powerful connection between national events and the community it serves,” senior Aidan Licolli said.
Students are allotted one minute for introductions, six minutes to present their project, and three minutes to respond to judges’ questions during the competition. During a practice round before SOSH WATG architects, carpenters, and mock judges, including respected professional Mark Petrella, the students received valuable feedback. Petrella specifically praised their use of natural light, an often debated aspect of museum design, noting how it complements the wall space, kiosk setup and the optimal display of historical exhibits.
The design meets all TSA national competition requirements, including three administrative offices, two classrooms, HVAC infrastructure, and designated educational spaces.
