Some 33 landscape architecture firms from across Texas and the region gathered last week at Texas Tech for the 2025 WreckShop Expo, a student-led initiative that underscores the growing importance of landscape architecture in bridging science, design and policy.
Held on September 11–12, the annual event was organized by the Department of Landscape Architecture in collaboration with the university’s student chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects (SASLA). This year’s theme, “The Intersection,” highlighted the discipline’s position at the confluence of environmental stewardship and human-centered design.
“This event is a great opportunity to explore how we are forging meaningful connections between people, places, and the planet,” said Andrew Castilleja, assistant professor of practice in the department.
The two-day conference featured a firm expo, portfolio reviews, and professional networking opportunities designed to help students engage with leading voices in the field. Events were hosted in the Agriculture Pavilion, Escondido Theater and the historic Dairy Barn, a restored landmark that now serves as a venue for campus and community events.
The expo served as more than a showcase of student work; it was also a deliberate investment in future professionals, said Leehu Loon, professor and department chair. It also allowed alumni to return to campus, connect with each other, and meet their future colleagues.
During the event, students presented their work in one-on-one sessions with firm representatives, receiving feedback on design thinking, technical execution, and the evolving role of landscape architecture in addressing global challenges. The event also spotlighted keynote speakers Bobby Eichholz, Principal at Rialto Studio in San Antonio; and Sunnie Diaz, Senior Associate at Lake Flato in San Antonio.
Additionally, a WreckShop 2025 panel presentation featured six alumni and practitioners who discussed how landscape architecture intersects with various disciplines, addressed global challenges, and made a unique impact on communities.
They included Mark Padilla, Owner/CEO of MP Studio in San Antonio; Mick Massey, Senior Associate at BRS Architecture in Dallas; Grant Huber, Senior Associate at Asakura Robinson in Houston; Kelly Cook, Founding Partner and Principal of KDC Associates in Midland; Jared Horsford a part-time instructor in the Department of Landscape Architecture and Landscape Design Professional at Parkhill in Lubbock; and Megan Hatcher, Practice Lead at McAdams in Lewisville.
Separately, program officials recognized the department’s students who were critical in planning this year’s event, including SASLA officers Emma Davis, President and 3rd year student; Abigail McKeon, Vice President and 3rd year student; Tate Lovell, Treasurer and 3rd year student; Ella Gielstra, Secretary and 3rd year student; Angelina Schenk, Event Coordinator and 3rd year student; Jennifer Malagon, Social Media Coordinator and 3rd year student; Jordan Bello, Community Service Coordinator; and 3rd year student; and Zachary Nelson, Graphics Coordinator and 3rd year student.
Texas Tech’s Department of Landscape Architecture, housed within the Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources, currently enrolls more than 110 undergraduate and graduate students. The department specializes in semi-arid landscapes and focuses on sustainable design practices tailored to changing ecological and urban conditions. Its Bachelor and Master of Landscape Architecture programs are fully accredited by the Landscape Architectural Accreditation Board.
CONTACT: Leehu Loon, Professor and Chair, Department of Landscape Architecture, Texas Tech University at (806) 834-5215 or Leehu.Loon@ttu.edu
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