The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Central Valley Chapter can help students and associates on their path to becoming a licensed architect, and in establishing and building a career in architecture. See below for some of the ways we can help. To learn more about these and other initiatives, or just to find out how to get plugged in, send an email to [email protected]
Why Architecture?
Architects are problem solvers, artists, and visionaries with a passion for the built environment – all the spaces we work, play and live!
Watch this short video “Architecture: Career” by ThinkTV (7m36) to explore: What is an architect? What does an architect need to know? Who do architects work with? What new areas are emerging in architecture? Why become an architect?
Here are just some types of jobs architects hold, but because an architectural mind is a problem solver and a builder, there are endless opportunities…
- Designer
- Project Coordinator
- Project Manager
- Drafter/Modeler
- Interior Architect
- Historic Preservationist
- Building Official
- Accessibility Specialist
- Urban Planner
And some types of projects they work on…
- Residential (varying size houses, multi-family buildings, accessory dwelling units, renovations)
- Civic (courthouses, community centers, fire stations, theaters)
- Healthcare (hospitals, medical office buildings, specialty clinics)
- Commercial (retail, recreation, corporate, hospitality)
- Education (K-12, higher ed, additions, expansions)
Becoming a licensed architect opens more doors and gains respect in the community. Opportunities include leveling up at a firm, working in the public sector, starting your own practice, and more.
Our Civic Engagement Team has profiled some of our local AIACV architects on their contributions to the community, explore at: www.aiacv.org/cet
Our Equity Diversity & Inclusion Committee started an empowering campaign focused on the narratives of people in our profession: #I Am. See the stories at www.aiacv.org/edi
A Primer on Terminology & Abbreviations:
- AIA (American Institute of Architects) – professional association and nationwide network of architects and design professionals
- NCARB (National Council of Architectural Registration Boards) – develops and administers national AXP program and ARE exams for candidates pursuing architectural licensure
- AXP (Architectural Experience Program) – document real-world skills and tasks you need to practice architecture, and required by most U.S. licensing boards and developed by NCARB
- ARE (Architect Registration Examination) – multi-division exam used to assess knowledge and skills regarding the practice of architecture, required by all U.S. licensing boards and administered by NCARB
- CAB (California Architects Board) – regulates of the practice of architecture in California
Pathways
Through a combination of Education and Experience (or go experience only!), there’s not just one way to become an architect in California!
Check out the expanded Path to Licensure infographic from AIA California for a visual reference on how to get licensed in California AND visit CAB’s Become a Licensed Architect Pathways for description and benefits of the four different pathways to meet licensure eligibility.
Architectural Education
Jump over to our Architecture Education page to see options for studying architecture in the Central Valley:
- Sacramento Regional Builders Exchange (SRBX) Education Foundation
- Cosumnes River College
- Sacramento State University
Programs & Resources for Students:
- So You Want To Be An Architect – annual event to get your licensing questions answered, hear about pathways to becoming an architect, and what it means to be an architect with a panel of local professionals
- Mentor Match / Mentor Meetup – learn more about the value of mentorship and get pointers on selecting a college, applying for a job, and cultivating the right mentors and personal contacts – check out 2020’s Mentor Meetup recording
- AIACV / John Ellis Architectural Scholarship – apply for the annual scholarship for students
- Job Center – find an internship or job
- AXP (Architecture Experience Program) Tours – earn Architectural Experience Program (AXP) credit for attending our project tours under construction
- AIACV Architecture Library – borrow architecture books from our library, we have a wide variety available!
- ARE Library – borrow study materials from our library to prepare you for the Architect’s Registration Exam (ARE)
- Get Involved – build your leadership skills through participation on AIACV boards and committees
- Network – meet Central Valley Architects at our social events and mixers