Meet the Team: Jessie Truett
CDFL Architects + Engineers, P.A. is growing, and we are excited to announce that Jessie Truett has joined our Birmingham team as an Architectural Designer!
What do you do at CDFL?
I am an Architectural Designer, recently graduated from Auburn University as of May 2025. As of now, I help out with design development, drafting, and documentation while learning as much as I can from my team. I’m focused on building my skills and working toward getting licensed as soon as possible.
What exciting things are you working on right now?
Right now, the most exciting project I’m working on is the Jordan-Hare Stadium North End Expansion. It’s incredibly special to me because I grew up going to Auburn games there, so being part of the design team feels surreal. It’s amazing to know that one day I’ll be able to look at it and think, “Wow, I had a hand in making that happen”.
What have you learned so far working at CDFL?
In the past two years, I would say that the most important thing I’ve learned at CDFL is how valuable collaboration and communication are when it comes to being a part of a team. Coming from a university studio environment where we each had our own individual projects, it was a fun shift learning how to contribute, as a team member, to a shared vision. At CDFL, I’ve learned how to listen more intentionally, ask questions to better understand things that aren’t taught in school, and align my work with the needs of both the team and the project. These are skills that have made me a better designer and professional overall.
What’s your favorite TV show?
I don’t really keep up with current TV trends, but one show that’s always stuck with me is Miami Vice. It’s one of those that I used to watch with my dad and have loved ever since. I know it’s not a current show, but the style, atmosphere, and music really stuck with me.
What do you spend the most time doing outside of work?
Outside of work, I spend most of my time with family and friends. I have two younger sisters I try to see as often as I can, and I stay close with friends from college who I’m really grateful to have in my life. Whether it’s catching up, visiting home, going to a concert, or just spending time together, that’s what matters most to me.
What's the last movie you saw?
The last movie I saw was Jaws. It’s one of my all-time favorite summer movies!
What’s your favorite lunch spot in the neighborhood?
My favorite lunch spot in Birmingham as of right now is the diplomat deli! It has some of the best sandwiches. My favorites are the Philly Cheese Steak and the Reuben!
If you hadn't gone to architecture school, what would you have wanted to do?
I probably would have gone into Aerospace Engineering. I took several engineering classes in high school and even some early on in college, but eventually realized it was not my calling. That is when I decided to switch to Architecture, and I am so glad I did! Thank you to my dad and to Mr. Gaines Blackwell at Auburn University for pointing me in the right direction.
What’s your favorite vacation spot?
My favorite vacation spot, so far, is the ever-loveliest Destin, Florida! It’s a place I grew up going to, and over the years it’s become a yearly tradition for my family to meet there! Some of my best memories have been made on those trips!