Showing posts with label AIA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label AIA. Show all posts

Thursday, March 24, 2016

Architecture Uncensored: The License Dilemma

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Last night, I had the pleasure of serving on a panel entitled “The License Dilemma” sponsored the by the Emerging Architects Committee of AIA DC.  Joining me was Adam Schwartz, AIA, a recently licensed architect and Associate at HGA Architects and Engineers and the Washington DC Licensing Advisor and Harry Falconer, Jr., AIA, Director of Experience + Education at NCARB.  Moderating the panel was Elizabeth Kinkel, Associate AIA of View Dynamic Glass. …

The panel started with an introductory discussion on Integrated Path to Architectural Licensure (IPAL).  As listed on the NCARB website, IPAL provides students the opportunity to complete licensure requirements while earning their degrees. 
 






















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However, the thrust of the discussion both from us as panelists and the audience, mostly emerging professionals, was on the value of licensure and how WE (the profession) could do more to ensure architectural graduates would pursue licensure.  Harry relayed statistics from NCARB by the Numbers that stated that the average age of an architect becoming licensed was 32 years of age.  With recent changes in IDP (soon to be AXP), the timeframe from graduation to licensure is decreasing.

Some of the discussion was on what architecture programs (schools) could do; as will be the case with IPAL, schools might provide or encourage students to gain experience during their formal education making them more valuable to firms upon graduation.  But also, many in the audience thought schools could provide more direct knowledge on practice.  However, I pointed out that our system of becoming an architect includes knowledge from education and knowledge from experience. 

Unfortunately, some firms are not equipped to “teach” their employees like a hospital might do with aspiring doctors.  For firms, it is a business proposition – my answer to firms is the “your people” are your most important asset.  One member of the audience specifically asked – what could WE do to help firms more value their staff as they work towards licensure; no one had an immediate answer.

Mr. Falconer furthered the conversation with the notion that an architectural should pursue licensure not for their current position, but for their next one.  Adam relayed the sense of accomplishment when he had achieved the title of architect.

Additional discussion centered on those architectural graduates that pursue an alternate path and not licensure.  We know that these individuals are NOT architects (in the legal sense), but are they are part of the profession.

Overall, the event was a success in terms of attendance, but more importantly in terms of conversation; attendees left with much to consider as each pursues licensure.  I am pleased to have been a part of the panel; I am sure this is not an exact summary, but it is a start.

Best.

Friday, May 24, 2013

Getting Feet Wet in Architecture


I'm a 33 year old board-certified emergency physician in Philadelphia who's wondering what to do about an architecture bug that I have.  Designing the lighting scheme for our living room was nearly as exciting as the first time I scrubbed on open-heart surgery, and I am frequently surprised by how intuitive street directions and architectural drawings are to me.  

I've been reading Hal Box's "Think Like An Architect," and while I'm not ready to a career switch, I certainly don't want to end up 50 and thinking where life would have gone if I had actually taken an architecture class in college.

Assuming that money and academics aren't a limitation, any suggestions on how to get my feet wet, while holding down a flexible but still full-time job?

Many thanks for any insight you may have.
___________

Thanks for contacting me and congrats on your interest in architecture.  Given your architecture bug, there are many ways to become involved in the profession without becoming an architect.  

First, you are in a great architectural city - Philadelphia. Take full advantage of the resources and events that the city has to offer related to architecture.  Start with the AIA Philadelphia, the professional association of architects.  They sponsor architectural walking tours - besides taking them, inquire about becoming a docent to lead the tours.  Each year, they sponsor lectures to attend - as I am sure both Penn, Temple, Philadelphia U and Drexel do as well - the four architecture programs in Philly


Aside from the AIA, here is an online guide to architecture of the city.


At minimum, read about architecture from books or online journals.  Consider taking a class in drawing or history from the architecture programs listed above.

As you are a healthcare professional, did you know that one can become a healthcare architect.  Perhaps, there is way to become involved and serve as a consultant for a firm that does healthcare work.


As you can see, there are many ways to become involved -- also, if you decide to become an architect, consider obtaining Becoming an Architect 2nd ed. (Wiley 2010).

Saturday, April 13, 2013

AIA/NCARB Survey

Below is the beginning part of an article recently posted on the AIA website concerning the 2012 AIA / NCARB website; it truly has great insight on the picture of current emerging professionals.
If you are on the path to becoming an architect, consider reading --

AIA/NCARB Survey Shows Rosier Picture for Emerging Professionals
More interns are employed and getting licensed than during the throes of the recession
By Jennifer Riskus
In 2010, the AIA/NCARB Internship and Career Survey of emerging professionals took a snapshot of young designers during a time of intense economic contraction, when they were often the first to suffer. But in the two years since, emerging professionals have begun experiencing a rebound, with higher employment levels, more young designers getting licensed, and any remaining unemployment becoming, in most cases, mercifully short.
The 2012 Internship and Career Survey, commissioned jointly by the AIA and NCARB, and conducted by The Rickinson Group, contains a wealth of information on the experiences of emerging professionals as they go through IDP, take the ARE, become licensed, and obtain their first jobs. This survey has been completed five times since 2003, most recently inthe fourth quarter of 2012.

Saturday, December 22, 2012

ARE Resources

Dear Dr. Architecture,

I came across your blog while searching on information about prepping for ARE exam. Thanks for the blog, it definitely give me confidence to begin the ARE Exam.


I need some advise on finding the best ARE books to begin my study. They're a few choices of books 


I found online, but not sure which one to choose from. What ARE prep books would you recommend? 
_______________


As I have not personally taken the ARE, I am not in a position to recommend specific resources for taking the ARE, but there are plenty of resources --

ARE Resources (AIA) (see list below)
http://www.aia.org/professionals/licensed/AIAS074829

Study Resources for the ARE
http://academics.triton.edu/faculty/fheitzman/idp-stud.htm


ARE REOURCES – as listed on AIA

Resources from the NCARB

Learn the latest information on the NCARB ARE Home Page. Begin the process by reviewing the materials the provided by NCARB, the developers of the exam:



Handbook for Interns and Architects
Describes the NCARB organization, services, procedures, and examinations. Also outlines requirements for certification, IDP training requirements, and certification requirements for Canadian architects. View all free publications available from NCARB.




You can register to take the ARE on the Prometric Web site.



ARE Study Guides

Several publishers and companies offer study materials. Please see their Web sites for more information. Check with your local AIA component to see if they lend ARE study materials. Also, enter the ARE Forum to get recommendations or buy secondhand books.



Amor Study Guides (3.1)
Study Guides for all Divisions and California Supplemental Exam
Author: William A. Amor, NCARB, AIA



Archiflash (3.1 & 4.0)
Practice problems for ARE 4.0 divisions.
Flashcards for all ARE 3.1 multiple-choice divisions.
Author: National Academic & Licensing Study Aids, LLC. (NALSA)



Architectural Licensing Exam Preparation (3.1)
For each ARE 3.1 multiple-choice division and California Supplemental Exam: Workbook and Sample Exam Booklet
Author: Richard Chylinski, FAIA



Architecture Exam Review (3.1 & 4.0)
Book series for all divisions of the ARE 4.0
Book series of Structural, Non-structural, Graphic topics include: Study guide, examples and solutions, practice exams
Author: Various practitioners, see Web site

Free lecture notes and structural tips
Author: David Thaddeus, AIA



Kaplan AEC Education (3.1 & 4.0)
For each ARE 4.0 division: Study Guide, Online Supplement, Practice Vignette Books, Question & Answer Books, Flashcards
For each ARE 3.1 multiple-choice division: Study Guide, Questions and Answers Handbook, Test Bank CD-ROM, Flash Cards, Online Interactive Review
For each ARE 3.1 graphic division: Study Guide, Practice Vignettes, Test Bank CD-Rom, Online Learning, Flash Cards
Author: Various practitioners and includes Architectural License Seminars (ALS) resources



MBA Architectural (3.1 & 4.0)
(909) 336-1180
CDs and DVDs and books for all ARE study divisions
California supplemental exam information also included
Author: Michael P. Boardway, R.A



Sissoko Design Office, Inc (California Supplemental Exam)
CSE study guide:  “California Supplemental Exam ---An elemental understanding of the CSE---A synthesis of the California Architects Board recommended reference materials” Also a companion book contains a total of 10 sample exams and answers.
Author:  Habib Sissoko, Licensed Architect

Workbook: Solutions: Understanding the Graphic Divisions of the Architect's Exam
Home Study Course includes: Solutions Workbook, Mock Exams (pencil & paper version or computer version), NCARB Tutorial Solutions, Past Exams
Author: Norman K. Dorf, AIA



ARE Seminar Instructors

Candidates should check with your local AIA component to see if they organize ARE seminars or look at the AIA national Events Calendar for already scheduled seminars. Seminars may also occur at the local, state, or regional level or through a school of architecture. Some of the seminar instructors also offer online seminars. Check their Web sites for more information.



Architectural Licensing Exam Preparation (3.1)
Richard Chylinski, FAIA



ARE Prep for Graphic Divisions (3.1 & 4.0)
Bob J. Wise Jr., Robert Elfer, NCARB, AIA, Laura Serebin, AIA



Funkaar Studios (3.1 & 4.0)
Umber Kazmi, LEED AP







PREPA-R-E (3.1)
Marc Mitalski, PE, SE, Assoc. AIA

Seminars on General Structures and Lateral Forces Divisions (3.1 & 4.0)


David Thaddeus
, AIA, NCARB | UNC-Charlotte | (704) 687-4021

Seminars on Mechanical and Electrical Systems Division
Wendell Edwards | CUNY-New York | (718) 260-5266


Mike Green
, PE | Arkansas-based | (479) 443-4786

Seminars for Graphic Divisions
Bob Stephen and Barry Chin | California-based | (415) 681-6991



ARE Scholarships

Check with your local AIA component to see if they know of local scholarships opportunities. To suggest an addition to this list, please email emergingiprofessionals@aia.org.



Jason Pettigrew Scholarship
The AIA National Associates Committee (NAC) maintains a scholarship fund to remember their friend and colleague, Jason Pettigrew, Assoc. AIA. The scholarship recipients receive a full set of Kaplan ARE Study Guides and funds to cover the cost of taking each section of the ARE once. Please note $400 is awarded up front and remainder is paid upon successful completion of the exam, and to receive balance of award, recipients must complete the ARE within 5 years of receiving the initial award and submit passing reports from each of the divisions of the exam to the AIA for verification of completion.



Texas State Scholarship
A scholarship fund called the Architect Registration Examination Financial Assistance Fund (AREFAF) was created by the Seventy-sixth Legislature of the state of Texas.  This scholarship fund serves a public purpose of the state of Texas by promoting the professional needs of the state; increasing the number of highly trained and educated registered architects available to serve the residents of the state; improving the state's business environment and encouraging economic development; and identifying, recognizing, and supporting outstanding applicants who plan to pursue careers in architecture. The scholarship is a one-time reimbursement of $500 for taking the Architect Registration Examination. TBAE will award scholarships twice each year - December 31st and June 30th. The deadline for submitting scholarship applications is two weeks prior to each award date.



AIA Shreveport Grant for Interns/Edward Kemp Grant Fund
In an endeavor to assist intern architects enrolled in IDP with the cost of exam fees for the Architectural Registration Exam, the AIA Shreveport Chapter has established an annual grant fund for newly licensed architects. Intern architects are eligible for a financial grant upon passing the exam and obtaining a Louisiana license. Ask a board member for further information in regards to this grant.

Saturday, May 12, 2012

Architectural Research

I read your book, it was extremely informative and helpful. In fact, it guided me to find that I'm not that interested in designing for clients or a firm but I'm more interested in architectural research. I would like to research architecture and innovate new types of construction, sustainable and efficient design process. I would like to be the person that CREATES THE METHOD of design rather than just using the method in the design. I'm a third year architecture student at University of Illinois Chicago. 

I am currently searching for schools or interning opportunities for architectural research but I don't know where to start. I know University of Michigan has a program called the Master of Science Architecture: Building Materials and Construction, but I'm not sure if that program is the correct program for an architectural researcher. Basically what my question is, what does an architectural research job consist of and how do I go about doing it?

Your comment will be greatly appreciated. 
_____________

I am pleased that you enjoyed my book and found it helpful.

Your question is slightly out of my expertise, but I will offer what I can.

Even though you wish to pursue architectural research, it may still be worthwhile to pursue the Master of Architecture on your path.  Also, as you have an additional year remaining, reach out to faculty to work with them on their research.  Perhaps, you can do an independent study with one of your faculty to learn more about research.

You may also wish to see if there is a "research methods" course at UIC.


Finally, keep asking lots of questions of your peers and faculty about careers in architectural research.  Connect with researchers on your campus in other disciplines.  There is lot to learn.

AIA Research (includes copies of research journals)

http://www.aia.org/practicing/research/index.htm

ARCC - Architectural Reseach Center Consortium
http://www.arccweb.org/


I hope this gets you started.

Thursday, March 1, 2012

EESA - Foreign Architect

My question is simple, I am confused about the specific functions of the NAAB, NCARB, EESA, related to becoming an Architect, the NAAB says it is "a non profit" and  "is the sole agency authorized to accredit US professional degree programs in architecture ", but there is a fee of near 1900 for an evaluation, also there is the  "EESA-NCARB program", which mixes the two, oh! there is another mix " The NAAB has recently established maintenance and reinstatement fees for EESA "

So, to make short, can you please tell me what is the process to become an architect classified by stages, and which organization commands each stage?

Thank you in advance for your help, and patience. And if it helps, I am an Architect in my country, but as a legal resident in the United States of America, I want to live here and have my credentials working.
_____________

Having worked at NAAB, I can provide you some insight on the EESA process.  NAAB is under contract with NCARB to run EESA.  Just because NAAB is a non-profit does not mean that they do not collect fees.

In the U.S., the architectural profession is represented by the following:

American Institute of Architects (AIA) – Professional organization for licensed and non-licensed architects;
National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) – Organization which administers IDP and the ARE;
American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) – Independent, student-run organization representing students of architecture;
Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA) – Works to advance the quality of architectural education
National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) – Agency that accredits schools of architecture.

Each one has a role in the process of becoming an architect.  As you are an architect in another country, I would suggest you work with NCARB to become licensed in the U.S.  Review the following:

http://www.ncarb.org/en/Getting-an-Initial-License/Foreign-Architects.aspx


How long have you been an architect?  Read the materials to learn more.

Best.


Sunday, January 29, 2012

Sustainable Architecture

I wanted to know if choosing sustainable architecture for master degree is a good choice to find a job in the USA?  If it's not a good choice what field do you recommend?  I also like some other fields like site planning, interior design and architecture.  By the way at the moment I am living in Australia and will get my master here.  Thank you very much for your time and concern.
__________

As you are probably aware, the topic of sustainable architecture / green buildings is a hot one.  There are many resources for architects and the building industry on the topic.

One in particular deals with South Australia


Now, the question as to whether it is a good choice for securing a position in the U.S.  In general, I would say yes, but I would suggest you research firms in which you are interested to see if their commitment to sustainable architecture makes your choice a good one.

Another resource to consider is the Committee on the Environment of the AIA (see below)


Ultimately, firms hire individuals for many different reasons - skills, experience, fit, etc.  Is an expertise in sustainable architecture one of them?


Best!

Saturday, January 14, 2012

AIA/AAF Minority Disadvantaged Scholarship Program

The AIA/AAF Minority Disadvantaged Scholarship provides assistance to high school graduates, college freshmen, and community college students from a minority and/or financially disadvantaged background who intend to pursue a NAAB-accredited professional degree (5-year BA or BA + MA) in Architecture.
In June 2011, the AIA selected four AIA/ AAF Minority Disadvantaged Scholarship recipients.

Eligibility
Applicants must be legal residents of the United States and either:
  • High school seniors entering a NAAB accredited professional program in architecture
  • College freshmen attending a NAAB accredited professional program in architecture, or
  • Technical school or community college students that have completed high school or its equivalent and intend to transfer to a NAAB accredited professional program
Application
The 2012 application is now available. Application and supporting materials must be postmarked by March 16, 2012. We hope to notify all candidates by early June 2012. View the 2012 flyer.

Award
Up to five scholarships between $3,000-$4,000 will be awarded in 2012. Scholarships may be renewed every year until the completion of the degree program.
 
Contact
If you have any questions, please contact: scholarships@aia.org

Friday, October 7, 2011

Mechanical Engineer to Architect

Dr. Architecture,
I am a licensed P.E. in the state of Alabama in Mechanical Engineering and have almost 20 years of experience (from machine design to more physics based applications). I have a Masters and Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering from Auburn University, but am now considering the idea of transitioning to Architecture. I am looking to  a supporting role in an architecture firm. What might the best path be? Are there any options for distance learning (even a subset of the coursework), that have accreditation? I am a military dependent living in Ohio, but we will settle in the state of Colorado within the next year. I realize that the education and licensure can be state dependent. I appreciate any help you might be.
_________

First, congrats on your idea to pursue architecture.

Given your previous education, you may pursue the accredited Master of Architecture (3-4 years) at over 60 institutions around the country.  For the full list, visit -- NAAB - www.naab.org and ARCHSchools - www.archschools.org.

Unfortunately, there are no exclusively online degree programs in architecture for an individual that has a degree in another discipline.  With your moving to Colorado the only program in the states is University of Colorado - Denver.


Now, given your discipline is mechanical engineering, you may be able to pursue a position within a AE / EA firm which would allow you to contribute (not as an architect).


I would begin the process of networking through the professional association - AIA - American Institute of Architects and contact a few firms for possible positions.

Best.

Friday, January 14, 2011

RIBA to the US

I am writing to request some information regarding the route to becoming an architect in the USA. I am currently just finishing my RIBA part 1 in London England and considering the option of continuing my education in California with the intention of becoming AIA registered. Is this an option? Thank you for your time.
__________

First, congratulations on your decision to continue your education in California and to pursue licensure in the U.S.

This route is definitely an option for you and completing your education will help immensely, but please note that unlike in the U.K., the AIA has nothing to do with the licensure of architects in the U.S.  The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is a professional organization and provides benefits to its membership.

Instead, each state or jurisdiction awards licensure while the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) oversees the process at the national level. 

Basically, the process is three steps - 1) Education, 2) Experience, and 3) Examination.  For most states, you must gain a professional NAAB accredited degree (www.naab.org); you can pursue the Bachelor of Architecture or the Master of Architecture.  Next, you must complete the Intern Development Program which is working for a licensed architect for about three years (http://www.ncarb.org/en/Experience-Through-Internships.aspx) and the final step is taking an passing the seven part Architect Registration Examination (ARE - http://www.ncarb.org/en/ARE.aspx).

If you still have a desire to still return to U.K., you may wish to consider University of Maryland as they had been RIBA validated; I am not sure if they still are (www.arch.umd.edu).

I wish you the best and feel free to send more questions.

Dr. Architecture

Sunday, January 9, 2011

A healthcare design architect from India, working with Asia's No1, healthcare provider-Apollo Hospitals, is how I would introduce myself. I am looking at relocating myself to NewYork city and want to know whether I can find myself an employer?
_______

Whether you are able to secure an employer will be based on factors you can control and many your cannot. As you may be aware, the market for architects is tight right now making your search much more difficult.

Regardless, you are wishing to stay in healthcare? If so, the AIA has a Knowledge Community aimed at Healthcare Architecture that may be of interest.

Academy of Architecture for Health
The Academy of Architecture for Health (AAH) improves the quality of healthcare through design by developing, documenting, and disseminating knowledge; educating healthcare architects and other related constituencies; advancing the practice of healthcare architecture; improving the design of health care environments; affiliating and advocating with others that share our vision and promoting research.

As for other resources, contact the AIA NYC -- http://main.aiany.org/ -- Your best source of securing leads is networking. Of course, it is more difficult to do so from long distance. Will you be visiting NYC anytime soon. Under AIA New York, there is a firm directory allowing your to search for appropriate firms. This is NOT all firms in NYC, but it is a great start.

Another sources for positions is the National AIA -- http://careercenter.aia.org/jobs/ -- It is a national database so you must search; when I search under New York, 12 positions returned.

Best in your search!

Dr. Architecture

Monday, November 22, 2010

Seeking Employment - Frustration

Dear Dr. Architecture, I am a 23 year old who just recently graduated from a University with my Masters Degree. Unfortunately I attained my degree in Architecture. Which I guess is one of the worst degrees to have in this economy. I have applied for numerous jobs, but I have not received any responses. Most of the jobs require experience(2-5 years). I cannot become a licensed architect unless I am employed as an architect or intern. Currently, I am working a part time job that does not require a degree, and I have moved back home to California. Do you have any suggestions for me, should I go back to school, is there a better state to find an architect job? I am getting really frustrated, any help you can give me will be greatly appreciated.
________

Certainly, the profession of architecture has suffered greatly during this economic time, but I would disagree with your statement -- "one of the worst degree ..." I would say the exact opposite.

Someone who has a degree in architecture is probably best equipped for job searching because of a degree in architecture is the best liberal arts degree -- it teaches one to problem solve creatively. Granted, you have been unable to secure employment but perhaps you need to broaden your search and truly analyze the skills you can offer a prospective employer.

I understand that such an approach may postpone your officially becoming an architect but did you know that you can still gain some experience in IDP although not employed.

First, one resource to read is What Color is Your Parachute by Richard Bolles (http://www.jobhuntersbible.com/). It is a book to do, not just read. Also, become connected with the AIA in California; depending on when you graduated, you may still be eligible for free membership (http://www.aia.org/about/memberservices/AIAS077102). More specifically, connect with other emerging professionals through programs offered by the AIA. Some chapters have networking programs and support groups for those seeking employment.

Network! Volunteer! Spend eight hours a day seeking! As mentioned before, expand your employer base; what skills do you have to offer a prospective employer and who are those employers that can use your set of skills.

Do not give up! The profession of architecture will need you when the economy recovers.

Dr. Architecture

Monday, March 22, 2010

Seeking Employment Prior to MArch

I stumbled upon your blog, and subsequently purchased the 2nd edition of Becoming an Architect, which I've found to be very helpful. I graduated with a BA in English in 2007, and I’m hoping to go back to school to earn a MArch starting in summer 2011. The upcoming year will give me ample time to research schools, take the GRE, prepare a portfolio, and submit applications, but I’m also looking for a job. I’m currently filling a full time interim position through the end of July, but I have no interest in becoming a permanent hire. Assuming I get accepted to a MArch program, I would be facing about 10 months of “down time” between the end of my current position and the start of school in the summer. I’m wondering if there’s any chance of finding immediate employment in an architecture-related field (not as an architect, of course, but something that would allow me to network and learn more about the field). Do you think there's any chance of this happening? Is it even worth the effort?

Thanks in advance for your help!

_______

As you must know, the economy has hit the architecture profession very hard. Because of this, many firm are not currently hiring; however, if your desire is to network and learn more about the field, there are ways to do this without seeking employment. Of course, you can certainly attempt to gain a position.

To network, visit architecture lectures at area architecture schools or other cultural institutions. Even consider joining the AIA (American Institute of Architects) to start networking and learning the profession. To learn more, read the literature, consider attending a summer program, and possibly take a course as a non-degree student.

I hope this is helpful. Thanks!

Dr. Architecture

Thursday, September 11, 2008

High School Summer Architecture Programs

My daughter is interested in architecture and is entering high school next year. At what age do most of the students in your summer architecture program normally enroll (e.g. between freshman an sophomore year or sophomore and junior year, etc.)?

Thanks for letting me know.

Mother of high school student

You would need to check the age requirements with the programs, but most summer architecture programs are geared towards students entering their junior or senior year in high school. Some may allow students entering their sophomore year, but it will vary from school to school. I was involved with two summer programs and our requirement was always a minimum age of 16 because of liability issues.

Below is a website that lists all of the summer programs from summer 2008; we plan to update by late January for summer 2009. You may also visit the main website -- www.archcareers.org -- for a list of career days throughout the country in the fall.


If this coming summer is too early, check with other institutions in your area -- museums, AIA Chapters, schools, etc. For example, the National Building Museum hosts a summer "camp" targeted at children in grades 3-5 and programs for children age 12-18. Also, check your area for the ACE Mentor Program -- http://www.acementor.org/ -- this program is a mentor program that starts with students in high school.

For possible other ideas in your area, contact your local chapter of the American Institute of Architects or area architecture program.

Dr. Architecture