Melody Harclerode FAIA, MBA, LEED AP is dedicated to empowering the next generation of architects, engineers, construction professionals, and developers through immersive design education experiences as SPIKE Studio Executive Director. She began her career as an architect at local firms, including one led by SPIKE Studio Founder Oscar Harris FAIA, NOMA. Melody later established her own architectural firm. 

In 2010, she founded an award-winning, K-12 design education program to serve underserved youths for the Atlanta Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) in 2010. Melody established an AIA National subcommittee in 2017 to advance K-12 design education initiatives nationwide. This subcommittee has organized monthly meetings, online continuing education programs, and national conference forums since its inception. Melody was elevated in 2018 as an AIA Fellow for her design education initiatives, advocacy, and writing. 

As SPIKE Studio Executive Director, Melody is thrilled to champion this nonprofit organization’s mission for mentoring, inspiring, and educating youths, particularly ones from underserved communities, about architectural, engineering, construction, development, and creative fields. Honoring the founder’s vision, she enjoys collaborating with the Board of Directors, volunteers, instructors, and partners to engage middle and high school students with dynamic education programs that promote a more creative, diverse, and inclusive built environment.  

Melody complements her dedication to the next generation through SPIKE Studio with advocacy for design excellence and equity as AIA Georgia College of Fellows Committee Co-Chair, Atlanta Way 2.0 leader, and Atlanta Intown columnist. She lives with her family in Atlanta.