Each organization represents different groups responsible for the education, training, registration, and practice of architects. In response to shifting demographics and rapid change in the profession, the Council has fortified its relationship with these collaterals to identify and address significant issues that impact the future of architecture.

The American Institute of Architects (AIA)

Intern Development Program Coordinators Conference

Nearly 200 state, educator, auxiliary, and student coordinators from across the country gathered in Miami, FL, for the 2013 Intern Development Program (IDP) Coordinators Conference. Held jointly by NCARB and AIA, the conference provides a platform to explore factors that impact the pursuit of licensure. Over the course of three days, attendees met with other coordinators, shared best practices, explored hot-button issues, and learned about the latest program changes. “NCARB and AIA are committed to working together to make the next generation of professionals as strong as it can possibly be,” said NCARB President Blakely C. Dunn, NCARB, AIA.

 

National Architecture Week

 

  

 

Held annually during the second week of April, National Architecture Week is a time to highlight innovative architects who have made positive contributions to our society. Spearheaded by the AIA, the festivities took place online-through social media channels, blog posts, and videos. To celebrate, we asked interns and architects why they pursued architecture as a career.

 

Twitter Chat

In September, NCARB moderated an hour-long AIA Chat about the Intern Development Program (IDP). Held on the first Wednesday of every month, these chats bring together students, educators, emerging professionals, and licensed architects to discuss industry trends. Read a full recap of the conversation here.

The Association of Collegiate
Schools of Architecture (ACSA)

During the 2013 ACSA Administrator’s Conference, NCARB announced the 2013 NCARB Award recipients. The NCARB Award recognizes architecture programs that integrate practice and education; raise awareness of the architect’s responsibilities for the public health, safety, and welfare; and bring non-faculty practitioners into the academy. Learn more about the Award-winning proposals here.

The National Architectural
Accrediting Board (NAAB)

Accreditation Review Conference

After releasing our own contribution to the NAAB 2013 Accreditation Review Conference (ARC), NCARB provided further feedback to the accrediting board in FY14. Discussions centered upon possible consolidation of Student Performance Criteria and a reworking of other elements of the accreditation process. You can download NCARB’s paper here.

 

Leadership

In July, the NAAB elected five new directors including NCARB Past President Ronald B. Blitch, NCARB, FAIA, FACHA. In mid-October, President Blakely C. Dunn and CEO Michael Armstrong attended the NAAB Board meeting in Boston to provide an update on NCARB activities.

The American Institute of
Architecture Students (AIAS)

Student Coordinators Program

IDP coordinators often provide the first glimpse into the licensure process, providing tips and guidance along the way. To expand the reach of this program, NCARB partnered with AIAS to develop an IDP Student Coordinator position. After a successful trial run in FY13, the initiative was expanded to all schools with an NAAB-accredited degree. Throughout their one-year term, student coordinators:

●  Encourage students to take advantage of supplemental experience opportunities while in school

●  Provide architecture students with resources and information pertaining to their career and the value of licensure

●  Develop events and presentations for students

●  Communicated with NCARB to maintain a thorough understanding of IDP requirements, objectives, and resources

●  Participate in IDP coordinator training and development programs

 

AIAS Grassroots

For the past 30 years, AIAS has been preparing future leaders through its annual Grassroots Leadership Conference. The lively event brings together students and professionals who seek excellence in architecture education, training, and practice. NCARB was able to lend a hand in the planning process this year—from assisting with registration to presenting at the conference.