Expanding K-12 Studio, RKTB Architects Elevates Ralph Shinogle to Associate

Underscoring its reputation as a pioneering firm in sustainable, accessible K-12 architecture for public and independent schools, RKTB Architects has announced the elevation of senior architect Ralph Michael Shinogle, AIA, a well-regarded contributor in academic project design, to the role of Associate.

The appointment comes at a time when RKTB Architects is growing and broadening its portfolio beyond the metropolitan New York region to bring innovation and expertise to institutions and school districts across the Northeastern United States. Including an array of projects from new buildings to expansions and renovations, RKTB Architects — led by partner Albert Aronov, AIA — is building its education practice with a team of creative and highly seasoned practitioners.

According to Aronov, the architect Shinogle has been a major contributor to RKTB’s work on an extensive design portfolio for the New York City School Construction Authority (SCA), bringing K-12 expertise to a range of projects and facility types. “Ralph Shinogle regularly demonstrates strong technical expertise in design and building systems, leading cross-functional teams to successfully manage multiple capital improvement and capacity projects. His collaborative leadership and project oversight consistently result in high-value, cost-effective solutions that enhance operational efficiency and support the wellbeing of students and staff,“ says Aronov.

“The SCA has long been one of our most important collaborators and clients, and as the city agency tasked with managing all public school facilities in the five boroughs, it is also one of the most demanding, with the highest standards for sustainability nationwide,” adds Aronov. “We at RKTB are looking forward to Ralph’s continued contributions to our leadership and our client development path.”

As the lead architect in charge of SCA’s capital improvement and capacity efforts handled by RKTB, Shinogle currently oversees 25-plus individual facilities at any given time. The scope for each project varies from site to site, though most involve major upgrades to building infrastructure, enclosures, and accessible design features. Some of the projects call for conversion to all-electric building systems, eliminating the direct on-site consumption of fossil fuels.

Leading these varied school projects, beginning with consultations, diagnostic testing, and preparation of detailed recommendations for SCA decision-makers, Aronov and Shinogle assist both client and construction manager in making determinations of how to move forward and which sites to prioritize.

Shinogle came to RKTB in 2024 after several years working with Nelligan White Architects, which also handled SCA projects. He also gained experience performing key analyses and designing upgrades for the New York City Housing Authority. Prior to that post, Shinogle started his career by opening a private practice designing commercial projects in partnership with graduates from Kansas State University, where his study earned him a Masters of Architecture degree in 2010. Shinogle also spent two years in the Peace Corps working for an urban planning office in Albania before moving to New York City in 2016.

In his free time, Shinogle pursues painting, photography, and ceramics, as well as taking care of his two long-hair dachshunds.

“I’m honored and excited to be a part of RKTB’s continuing evolution and growth,” says Shinogle. “Working with the partners on their plans for expanding the firm’s reach is a rewarding challenge that can benefit many students, teachers and communities. It’s an opportunity in the design industry to make a long-lasting impact on people’s lives that I find uniquely fulfilling to pursue.”