Johnson Architecture’s Debbie McCarter earns licensure

Johnson Architecture’s Debbie McCarter earns licensure
Nov 4, 2025

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Johnson Architecture intern architect Debbie McCarter has successfully completed the Architecture Registration Examination (ARE) to become fully licensed, earning the title of project manager.


	Debbie McCarter, AIA; Johnson Architecture; image by Ben Finch

“Since Debbie joined our team in 2023, she’s worked diligently to pursue the extended process of obtaining licensure while supporting our project managers across all phases of architecture,” said Daryl Johnson, founder and president of Johnson Architecture. “We’re so proud of and for her on this great accomplishment and look forward to this next phase of her career.”

The ARE is a rigorous, multi-division exam that assesses skills and knowledge in the practice of architecture. It evaluates participants on areas that affect the integrity, soundness, and health impacts of a building, as well as other professional responsibilities like project management and coordination. Becoming a licensed architect can be a long and challenging process and earning an accredited architecture degree is only the first step. Graduates must demonstrate proficiency on real projects under the supervision of a licensed architect before taking the six-part licensing exam.

“JAI is proud that our overall team of 22 includes 11 Registered Architects and three Registered Interior Designers,” Johnson said.

McCarter has contributed to many successful projects, including an adaptive reuse project in Jamestown; Maryville Operations Center; Oak Haven Resort and Spa; The Carriage House spa and Meeting House at RT Lodge; Tennova Primary Care-North, and multiple custom residences.

She earned a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Tennessee and has comprehensive knowledge of AutoCAD, Revit, Enscape, Adobe platforms, InDesign, and Procreate; she’s proficient in hand sketching and rendering. McCarter is a native of Buenos Aires and resides in South Knoxville with her husband, Jake.

Founded in 1994, Johnson Architecture is a full-service design firm offering planning, architectural, and interior design services for a variety of facility types. The JAI team has members who specialize in commercial, education, healthcare, residential, tourism, restaurant, and spiritual developments of all sizes. Notable clients include Blount County Schools, Clayton Homes, DENSO, Dollywood, Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Knoxville's Community Development Corporation, RT Lodge, Tennova Healthcare, and The University of Tennessee.

To learn more, please visit jainc.com.