AIA YAF Connection 22.02 - Growth and Career Evolution
The architecture and design journal of the Young Architects Forum
This issue: Growth & Career Evolution
See how other young architects and professionals navigate their careers through personal and professional growth. Read about alternative career paths that vary from local government to an international scale.
Above: Image created by Justin Marquis, AIA with ChatGPT
2025 Young Architects Forum Advisory Committee
2025 Chair
2025 Vice Chair
2025 Past Chair
2025-2026 Advocacy Director
2025-2026 Communications Director
2024-2025 Community Director
2025-2026 Knowledge Director
2024-2025 Strategic Vision Director
2025 AIA Strategic Council Representative
2025 College of Fellows Representative
2025 Council of Architectural Component Executives Liaison
Idaho, Katie Bennett, AIA Illinois, Raquel Guzman Geara, AIA Indiana, Matt Jennings, AIA Iowa, Ben Hansen, AIA Kansas, Garric Baker, AIA Kentucky, George Donkor, AIA Louisiana, Calvin Gallion, III, AIA Maine, Sarah Kayser, AIA Maryland, Joe Taylor, AIA Massachusetts, Darguin Fortuna, AIA Michigan, Trent Schmitz, AIA
Minnesota, Constance Chen, AIA Mississippi, Robert Farr, AIA Missouri, Chelsea Davison, AIA
Montana, Elizabeth Zachman, AIA Nebraska, Angel Coleman, AIA
Kathleen McCormick
Nevada, Daniela Moral, AIA
New Hampshire, Courtney Carrier, AIA
New Jersey, Abby Benjamin, AIA
New Mexico, Diana Duran, AIA
New York, Mi Zhang, AIA
North Carolina, Colin McCarville, AIA
North Dakota, Brady Laurin, AIA
Ohio, Alex Oetzel, AIA
Oklahoma, Brian Letzig, AIA
Oregon, Elizabeth Lagarde, AIA
Pennsylvania, Mel Ngami, AIA
Rhode Island, Taylor Hughes, AIA
South Carolina, Ryan Lewis, AIA
South Dakota, Liz Brown, AIA
Tennessee, Sara Page, AIA
Texas, Kyle Kenerley, AIA
Utah, Zahra Hassanipour, AIA
Vermont, Devin Bushey, AIA
Virginia, Erin Agdinaoay, AIA
Washington, Rio Namiki, AIA
West Virginia, Joey Kutz, AIA
Wisconsin, Justin Marquis, AIA
Wyoming, Kendra Shirley, AIA
Washington, D.C., Kumi Wickramanayaka, AIA
Puerto Rico, Reily J. Calderón Rivera, AIA
AIA International, Jason Holland, AIA
Connection is the official quarterly publication of the Young Architects Forum of AIA.
This publication is created through the volunteer efforts of dedicated Young Architect Forum members and made possible through generous grant funding from the College of Fellows.
06 Meeting Today, Shaping Tomorrow. Chair’s Message: Growth and Career Evolution
Sara Woynicz, AIA
07 Beyond Scale: How Firm Size Shapes Your Career Evolution
Kumi Wickramanayaka, AIA and
Danielle McCormick, Assoc. AIA
10 How to Prepare for a Job Interview
Carrie Parker, AIA
14 Everyone Should Have Hobbies: Personal Growth from Creative Endeavors
Calvin Gallion, III, AIA, NOMA
16 Aligned for Impact: ALIGN Alumni on Purpose, Practice and Power
Gabriella Bermea, AIA
19 Finding Your Niche: How Specialization Fuels Career Growth in Architecture
Manuel Granja, AIA. MBA, PMP, LEED AP
22 Newly Licensed Workshop
James Wesala, AIA
24 Interview with Graciela Carrillo, FAIA
Jessica O’Donnell, AIA
28 Growth + Career Evolution - My Journey in Architecture
Isabel Souza, Assoc. AIA, FITWEL AMB
30 Practicing Architecture in the Public Realm
Bryce Bounds, AIA, NCARB, CGC
32 The Ethics of AI in Creative Practice
Saakshi Terway, Assoc. AIA
34 Education Outreach Through Student Design Competitions
Kyle Kennerly, AIA
36 Through the Looking Glass: When an Architect Becomes a Developer
Andrew Gorzkowski, AIA
38 ABC | Archi-TEXT Book Club “So Good They Can’t Ignore You,” A Review
Justin Marquis, AIA, NCARB
40 Connection & Chill AIA YAF Knowledge Focus Group
Editorial team
Nicole Becker, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C Editor in chief
Nicole is an Associate and Project Architect at ZGF Architects in Portland, Oregon specializing in Healthcare. She is the 2025 Communications Director of the AIA Young Architects Forum.
Bryce W. Bounds, AIA, NCARB, CGC Senior editor
Bryce is a Miami native, a Construction Project Management Supervisor in the Public Works department of Broward County, and Florida’s YAR. He attended Design and Architecture Senior High School (DASH) in Miami-Dade and graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) with bachelors in both Architecture and Fine Art.
Constance Chen, AIA, NCARB Senior editor
Constance is a Minnesota native and a principal at Locus Architecture in Minneapolis. A University of Notre Dame graduate, her design approach intends to make meaningful connections between people and spaces. She serves as Minnesota’s YAR.
Andrew Gorzkowski, AIA, NCARB Senior editor
Andrew is a Senior Associate at Pickard Chilton in New Haven, Connecticut, where he works in design and project management roles on a variety of large-scale commercial projects. Passionate about advocating for a sustainable future for the profession, he serves as the Connecticut YAR and co-chair’s his local AIA Committee on the Environment. He received his degree at Cornell University, where he was a Meinig Family Cornell National Scholar.
Andrea E. Hardy, AIA, EDAC, NOMA, NCARB Senior editor
Andrea is a Senior Architect at Shepley Bulfinch, where she supports healthcare projects out of their Phoenix Office as a Project Manager. She is Arizona’s YAR, and is passionate about community involvement whether through work, AIA, or locally in the City of Phoenix. She has degrees from Wentworth Institute of Technology and ASU.
Kyle Kenerley, AIA Senior editor
Kyle is an Associate at Modus Architecture based in Dallas, Texas where he works on healthcare and workplace projects as the project manager and technical design lead. He is currently the YAR for Texas where he also serves on the board for the Texas Society of Architects. Kyle’s service with his local and state AIA chapter has primarily been focused on mentoring young architects and education outreach.
Justin Marquis, AIA, NCARB Senior editor
Justin is a Project Architect with Somerville Architects & Engineers in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Managing projects through all phases of development from conceptual design to construction administration, he currently supports the healthcare and educational studios at Somerville. He has a degree from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee and lives in the Fox Valley area with his family. Justin is the Wisconsin Young Architect Representative..
Garric Baker, AIA, NCARB Senior graphic designer
Baker is a graduate of the College of Architecture, Planning & Design at Kansas State University and excels in leadership positions with state and regional Chambers of Commerce, Young Professionals, the Kansas Barn Alliance, local and state Wide AIA Kansas Board of Directors, and Regional Economic Development activites.
Katie Bennett, AIA, NCARB Senior graphic designer
Katie is a project manager at Babcock Design in Salt Lake City, Utah and Boise, Idaho, and oversees projects during their inception phase through schematic design. She is the current YAR for the state of Idaho and is passionate about housing and sustainable design.
Calvin Gallion, III, AIA, NOMA, NCARB, LEED GA Senior graphic designer
Calvin is an architect and principal at studio^RISE in New Orleans. A Tulane graduate and Natchitoches native, he is a passionate advocate for community and rehabilitation projects. He serves as EDI Chair for AIA New Orleans and as Louisiana’s YAR.
Kendra is a project architect at Arete Design Group in Wyoming and Colorado and is Wyoming’s YAR. As a graduate from one of the top undergraduate architecture programs in the country, Kendra’s training and experience provides her with a unique and innovative perspective for creating extraordinary experiences and designs.
Designing your Path Editor’s Note
What do you think of when you hear “career growth”? Are you looking for a promotion? Do you aspire to own a firm? Maybe transition into academia? Practice in a new sector? Or do you want to pivot into a related specialty? Building on the perspectives shared in Q1, this quarter we’re elevating young architect voices and the immense value they bring across scales, disciplines, and expertise in “Growth and Career Evolution”.
This issue explores the many forms a design and architecture career can take. Whether you’re in a firm climbing the leadership ladder, carving a niche in academia or advocacy, leveraging your skills in adjacent industries, or stepping into the world of tech and AI, there is no single blueprint. The profession is transforming, and so are the roles we play within it.
We’re spotlighting immigrant and international perspectives, acknowledging how diverse backgrounds bring fresh ideas and resilience to the practice of architecture. We’re exploring how AI is reshaping workflows and redefining what it means to be a designer. And we’re addressing the very real challenges of searching for a job, finding the right mentor, and preparing yourself mentally, emotionally, and professionally, for the next step on your path.
Mentorship, education, leadership, and personal growth all weave through these stories as essential threads. No matter what your goals are, we hope you’ll find both inspiration and practical insight, whether you’re at the start of your journey, mid-pivot, or redefining what success looks like on your own terms.
A never-ending special thank you for the generous support of the AIA College of Fellows, whose generosity and advocacy have been instrumental in making this publication a reality.
Their ongoing enthusiasm for amplifying young architect voices continues to propel Connection forward.
As young architects, we’re not just designing buildings; we’re designing careers, communities, and a profession that is stronger because of its diversity. Diversity in thought, background, ambition, and humanity.
Here’s to evolving with purpose, growing with intention, and finding your path.
With optimism,
Nicole Becker Editor in chief / Connection
Editorial Committee Call
Q3 2025:
Call for submissions on the topic Steering the Future of the Profession.
Our editorial committee welcomes the submission of articles, projects, photography, and other design content. Submitted content is subject to editorial review and selected for publication in e-magazine format based on relevance to the theme of a particular issue.
2025 Editorial Committee:
Call for volunteers, contributing writers, interviewers, and design critics.
Connection’s editorial committee is currently seeking architects interested in building their writing portfolio to work with our editorial team to pursue targeted article topics and interviews that will be shared amongst Connection’s largely circulated e-magazine format. Responsibilities include contributing one or more articles per publication cycle (3–4 per year). If you are interested in contributing to Connection, please contact the editor in chief at: nicolejbecker1@gmail.com.
Nicole Becker, AIA NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
Associate, Project Architect
ZGF Architects in Portland, OR 2025-2026 Communications Director AIA Young Architects Forum.
Meeting Today, Shaping Tomorrow
Chair’s message: Growth and Career Evolution
Mid-career architects occupy a unique place: a generation with one foot in two directions. We are mentoring, teaching, growing the next generation of architects, while also navigating a continually changing landscape of the profession and the weight of growing responsibilities.
Last year, the Young Architects Forum focused on growth and career advancement. That remains important, yet with a lens that continues to expand. Though growth through advancement is essential in the arc of any career. It’s also about evolution.
“I’m licensed,now what?” or “Do I stay or do I go?” are questions all too familiar for those mid-career in architecture. These aren’t just questions about roles or titles. For some, they are questions about the profession itself—whether to remain in architecture or to pivot entirely.
Architecture, at its most fundamental, as licensure will say, is not about form or function - but responsibility for health, safety, and welfare. That foundation doesn’t change. Though, in the present and the ever-present future, context does change. The world’s challenges:climate, equity, housing, infrastructure, are not new, but they are growing more complex. The profession of architecture must continue to transform and evolve—not simply to stay relevant, but to truly make an impact and meet the challenges our communities and world are facing.
This is evolution happening in real time. In the colleague who shifted from traditional practice into software development. In the architect-developer, merging creativity and capital. In our peers who serve in public office, or in leadership roles beyond architecture firms. In the current AIA president, whose path has led through non-traditional practice to a broader impact and influence.
The profession of architecture must continue to transform and evolve—not simply to stay relevant, but to truly make an impact...
Wherever the path, your path,leads, evolution does not mean leaving architecture behind—it means expanding what architecture is. Sometimes that’s within the profession. Sometimes it’s adjacent. Sometimes it’s beyond. Always, though, it’s about harnessing our skills as creative thinkers, as shapers of the built environment, as connectors and leaders,to meet the moment and shape what comes next.
As questions shift, as our communities and challenges evolve, may the profession continue to do the same. May we stay curious. May we keep growing.
With you on the journey,
Sarah Woynicz 2025 Chair | Young Architects Forum
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore.
Sarah Woynicz, AIA is the 2025 Chair of the Young Architects Forum and a Project Architect at HKS. She brings a community-centric focus to clients and teams, valuing purpose-driven practice
Beyond Scale
How Firm Size Shapes Your Career Evolution
Architects shape the built environment—but just as importantly, the firms they work for shape their professional journeys. The decision to join a small or large firm goes beyond project scale; it touches on one’s identity as a designer, access to mentorship, creative autonomy, and long-term growth potential. While small firms often foster generalists through hands-on involvement in every phase of a project, large firms can offer specialized roles within structured systems and high-profile work. This article explores how firm size influences not just day-to-day responsibilities, but also leadership opportunities, adaptability, and career trajectory. Through the real-world experiences of two professionals—one in a small firm (10 employees), one in a large firm (200+ employees)—we’ll examine how each setting cultivates talent, shapes challenges, and supports aspirations. Whether you’re early in your career or reevaluating your path, this comparison can help you assess where your strengths, values, and goals align.
The Small Firm Perspective: Kumi Wickramanayaka
Wearing Many Hats: Growth Through Versatility in a Small Firm
Since starting my career at a small firm after completing my master’s degree, I’ve had the opportunity to wear many hats. I’ve contributed across multiple project teams, various phases of design, and even office management tasks.
One day, I might be working on an urban plan that combines townhomes with multifamily buildings; the next, I’m developing a marketing package, preparing an award submission, leading a client meeting, or managing construction administration. In other words, I’ve gained a broad range of experiences by engaging deeply in the many facets of practice.
My firm primarily focuses on affordable and market-rate multifamily housing, including senior living communities. We also work on civic projects like shelters and day centers that serve marginalized populations. While the typology of our work is specific, it remains rich in purpose and complexity. I sometimes wonder how my growth might have differed with exposure to a wider range of building types,but the depth of
Above: Spring Flats - Credits Wiencek Associates & Matt Ryb
involvement I’ve had in each project has made my experience incredibly rewarding.
The lack of silos and the collaborative culture have enabled me to grow quickly. I’ve been proactive about identifying gaps in my knowledge, seeking out experiences to fulfill my AXP requirements, and stepping into roles that challenge me. On lean project teams, I’ve often taken on more responsibility than my title might suggest,learning on the job and supporting others as needed.
Working in a small firm has made me resourceful. From the beginning, I learned to take initiative, conducting research, problem-solving independently, and knowing when to ask for guidance. I’ve also learned to adapt to different project teams and personalities, a necessity in a tight-knit office where collaboration is constant.
Time management and team coordination have also been critical skills to develop. Since I’m rarely dedicated to just one project at a time, managing shifting priorities and deadlines has helped strengthen my organizational and leadership abilities.
That said, small firm environments do come with trade-offs. Resources may be limited, and the structure for mentorship or advancement can be informal or undefined. Growth paths aren’t always clearly mapped out; instead, they depend on your initiative and ability to advocate for yourself. Opportunities for coaching or guidance are available, but they typically need to be actively sought out.
Incentives and benefits—such as professional development support, maternity and paternity leave, and paid overtime—may also be less competitive in a small firm compared to a larger firm, which typically operates under more formalized policies and structured HR frameworks.
However, the transparency of a small firm also provides an invaluable education in how a practice is run. Being involved in the day-to-day operations,—whether it’s observing contract negotiations, tracking project budgets, or contributing to officewide decisions,—has given me unique insight into what it takes to start and manage a firm. While the road to ownership might be less clearly defined, the exposure to the inner workings of the business has made the idea of starting my own practice one day feel more tangible and achievable.
The Large Scale Perspective:
Danielle McCormick
Finding My Voice Through Flexibility and Focus
My career journey began in small and medium-sized firms, right after earning my undergraduate degree in architectural technology. Like many emerging professionals, I entered the field with a broad, somewhat idealistic view of what architecture could be. What I quickly learned, through hands-on roles, shifting
responsibilities, and exposure to a wide range of project types and delivery methods, is just how many directions this profession can take.
That early variety helped me discover my passion: historic preservation. Having already worked on a few preservation projects, I realized that I wanted to specialize in this intersection of design, culture, and history. I was fortunate to be at a medium-sized firm that not only encouraged my growth but also made it possible for me to pursue a master’s degree in historic preservation while working full-time. My firm’s tuition reimbursement benefit—modest in size, but significant in support—was a meaningful investment in my future.
Earning that degree opened new doors. Preservation is a niche practice area, but it spans an incredible range of project types and sectors. Some days, I led large-scale restoration efforts that stretched on for years. Other days, I took on small, quick-turnaround projects that required me to wear multiple hats. That flexibility, honed in smaller firms, became one of my strongest professional assets.
Eventually, I reached a point where I wanted more: more variety, more sectors, more complexity. But instead of jumping from one specialized firm to another, I made a conscious choice to move into a large firm with diverse practice areas—
one that not only embraced preservation and modernization, but also worked across healthcare, education, civic infrastructure, and more. That transition was pivotal.
At a large firm, I’ve had the opportunity to apply my specialized knowledge in ways I never imagined: rehabilitating landmark buildings, modernizing university campuses, contributing to hospital renovations, even working on cemetery restoration projects. Each sector brings its own lens to preservation, and I’ve found that cross-disciplinary overlap to be both challenging and rewarding.
But it’s not just the project scale or diversity that’s made an impact. The resources available at a large firm have significantly supported my professional growth. From reimbursement for professional memberships and ARE testing fees, to attending conferences and using dedicated education hours (without dipping into PTO), the benefits are real and impactful.
Large firms also come with senior-level leadership experts in every practice area, and while it’s up to you to seek them out, their insight is invaluable. Employee Resource Groups offer community and support across every career stage and many firms now use career heatmaps to make growth expectations more transparent. You know what you need to demonstrate to level up, and that clarity can be incredibly empowering.
Still, scale has its trade-offs. In a large firm, it’s easy to feel like just a number. Career advancement doesn’t always come automatically, you have to advocate for yourself. That’s one of the most important lessons I’ve learned: to showcase my contributions and speak directly to decision-makers about the impact I’m making. Whether it’s leading project work, presenting at conferences, or staying active in industry organizations, I’ve learned to articulate not just what I do, but why it matters.
Working across different firm sizes has made me agile and adaptable. I know how to fill the gaps, no matter the role I’m
assigned. But the large firm environment has pushed me to advocate not only for myself, but also for my peers whose work deserves recognition, even if it flies under the radar.
Most importantly, it’s where I’ve found my voice in the profession. That voice now extends beyond the office walls and is reflected in the leadership roles I hold in the organizations I care deeply about.
Ultimately, the choice between a small or large firm isn’t about which is better, it’s about what aligns with your values and goals. Whether you’re drawn to broad exposure and adaptability or deep expertise and structured growth, both environments offer unique opportunities for professional development. As seen through the two experiences above, the most fulfilling careers are often built through varied experiences that challenge and shape you in different ways. Understanding how firm size influences your role, learning opportunities, and long-term trajectory empowers you to make intentional decisions, ones that support your evolving goals, amplify your voice, and help you build a career that’s authentically your own.
Kumi Wickramanayaka, AIA is a Project Architect at Wiencek+Associates in Washington, DC. She is passionate about public interest design and affordable housing, and currently serves as the YAR for Washington, DC.
Danielle McCormick, Assoc. AIA is Senior Technical Designer at Page in Washington DC. She serves as AIA DC | NAC STAR and leadership roles with the AIA DC | Historic Resources Committee and the Association for Preservation Technology DC.
Above: ABMC Manila American Cemetery and Memorial (Page)
Above: ABMC Manila American Cemetery and Memorial (Page)
How to Prepare for a Job Interview
Congratulations! You have been selected to interview for the position you applied to. Your resume and portfolio are polished and you can walk right in, right? Not so fast–let’s spend some due diligence in preparing for the interview.
Research the Company:
• Understand its mission, values, culture, products, and recent news.
• Familiarize yourself with the industry and competitors.
• What do they do? What are their specialties? What is some of the work you admire?
Research your interviewers
• What have they worked on? What have they written and published? What organizations do they volunteer with? But stick with Linkedin and published news and stay away from personal social media profiles as you may inadvertently cross a line.
Know the Job Description:
• Review the responsibilities and required skills.
• Identify how your experience aligns with the role.
Practice Common Interview Questions:
• Prepare answers for common questions (e.g., “Tell me about yourself,” “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”).
• Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions.
Practice your pitch first:
• How well do you know your own material? Interviewers may only do a cursory review of your material 10 minutes before the interview. You never know what will pop out at them and prompt a question to you.
• Be cognizant and respectful of your interviewer’s time. Assume they only have an hour, especially if it is a virtual interview. 30 minutes max should be spent on your work, 30 minutes in Q&A (15 minutes for them to ask you questions, and 15 for you to ask them questions)
Prepare Your Own Questions:
• Formulate insightful questions about the role, team, and company culture to show your interest.
• What is important to you that you could not find in research? Career growth potential, path to firm ownership or firm transition plans, licensure and
professional development support, policies, benefits, flexible work, pay for relocation or signing bonus schedule are all common questions.
• What can you expect to work on? Who will be your team? Can you meet or be introduced to your future team members?
Review Your Resume:
• Be ready to discuss anything on your resume in detail.
• Highlight relevant experiences and accomplishments.
Dress Appropriately:
• Choose professional attire that fits the company culture, leaning towards formal unless you know it’s a more casual environment.
Plan Your Logistics:
• Know the interview format (in-person, virtual, or phone) and prepare accordingly.
• If in-person, plan your route and arrive early. If virtual, test your technology and find a quiet space
Prepare Your Mindset:
• Practice relaxation techniques to manage anxiety (e.g., deep breathing).
• Approach the interview with a positive attitude and confidence.
Be proactive and responsive:
• Coordinating required materials and planning logistics (per above) with the interviewer is a great way to show interest and responsiveness. Not doing so shows disinterest.
• Don’t expect an identical approach with every interviewer, company, or process. Some companies or roles can skip steps, or not ask for material like a portfolio
Follow Up:
• Prepare to send a thank-you email after the interview, reiterating your interest and summarizing key points discussed.
As an interviewer, there are some common red flags of which to be cognizant:
Inconsistent Work History:
• Frequent job changes without clear explanations can raise concerns about commitment.
• Changing jobs frequently. I know many recommended the strategy of changing jobs every two years to increase pay, but it tells me that I shouldn’t invest in you. Your professional growth may have also been inhibited due to the inability to see a project through.
Attitude and tone.
• How you present yourself and your ability to speak to your work is more valuable than the work itself.
Lack of Preparation:
• Candidates who don’t know about the company or the role may not be genuinely interested.
Negative Attitude:
• Speaking poorly about previous employers or colleagues can signal a lack of professionalism.
Vague Answers:
• Inability to provide specific examples of past work or achievements may suggest a lack of experience or confidence.
Poor Communication Skills:
• Struggling to articulate thoughts clearly can be a concern for many roles.
Defensiveness:
• Getting overly defensive about questions regarding weaknesses or past job issues can indicate insecurity.
Lack of Questions:
• Not asking questions about the role or company might suggest a lack of interest or engagement.
Exaggeration:
• Overstating accomplishments or skills can be seen as dishonest.
Inflexibility:
• Being rigid about salary, work hours, or other terms may indicate an unwillingness to collaborate.
Body Language:
• Negative body language, like lack of eye contact or closedoff posture, can signal discomfort or disinterest.
But these can be actively managed with these green flags:
Preparation:
• Candidates who have researched the firm and articulate why they’re a good fit demonstrate genuine interest.
Clear Communication:
• The ability to express thoughts clearly and concisely shows strong communication skills.
Specific Examples:
• Providing concrete examples of past experiences and achievements indicates competence and confidence.
Positive Attitude:
• A positive demeanor and enthusiasm for the role can reflect a good cultural fit.
Growth Mindset:
• Discussing learning experiences, adaptability, and a willingness to grow suggests resilience and ambition.
Asking Thoughtful Questions:
• Candidates who ask insightful questions about the firm and role show engagement and critical thinking.
Professionalism:
• Timeliness, appropriate attire, and courteous behavior signal respect and seriousness about the opportunity.
Alignment with Values:
• Expressing values that align with the company’s mission and culture indicates a good fit.
Flexibility:
• Willingness to discuss various aspects of the role, including salary and work hours, suggests adaptability.
Strong References:
• Having solid references from previous employers, or instructors/community leaders if you have no work history, reflects positively on the candidate’s past performance.
Humility:
• Know when to say “I” vs “we”. Know when to toot your own horn about your contribution, but balance it with your ability to collaborate and work on a team.
Intuition
• Intuition of the interviewer and the anticipated ability to work with the team and/or deliver results. Sometimes it just feels right.
How and what should you negotiate? Should I even negotiate?
ABSOLUTELY AND ALWAYS negotiate, even as a new graduate with no experience. Even if the answer is no, it is still worth asking (with humility). You have VALUE to bring.
Being clear about priorities and doing research on industry standards can help in these negotiations. Check out their Glassdoor profile, AIA Salary Calculator, Archinet Salary Poll, and US Government GS Pay Tables. The federal government employs roughly 1,800 architects across various departments, and they want to be competitive in the local job market, so the GS tables are not just for people looking at government jobs, but are a well-researched and geography-specific tool for research.
Many firms have pay bands and equitable employment practices that make it difficult to negotiate salary and other benefits. But you won’t know unless you ask.
In a job interview, candidates commonly negotiate for:
Salary:
• The most frequent negotiation point, where candidates aim for a higher base salary.
Benefits:
• This includes health insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses.
Work Hours:
• Flexibility in working hours or options for remote work.
Job Title:
• Candidates may negotiate for a more senior title that reflects their experience.
Professional Development:
• Opportunities for training, education reimbursement, or mentorship.
Vacation Time:
• Additional paid time off beyond the standard offer.
Performance Reviews:
• Setting timelines for performance reviews that could lead to salary increases.
Relocation Assistance:
• Support for moving expenses if the job requires relocating.
Equipment and Resources:
• Specific tools, technology, or resources needed to perform the job effectively.
Non-compete Agreements:
• Negotiating terms that protect future job opportunities.
I want to take a moment to talk about career changes between firm sizes or different markets. At a certain point in your career, between about 7-10 years of experience, you tend to specialize in that client and market type. If you are applying to a new job during or after this window in a firm building projects more complicated or vastly different than your prior experience, you should anticipate coming in at a lower rank or salary than your current role, as you will have a steeper learning curve compared to a candidate making a lateral move. I have often heard frustrations from candidates who do not consider this qualitative aspect in applying their experience to the job description, focusing only on the minimum qualifications. Have you been working in housing and now you are applying at a firm building research labs or hospitals? Do you know what med gases or vivariums are? If not, then be honest with yourself and your interviewer about your capabilities and anticipated growth, and share your excitement to learn. Your motivation can overcome inexperience.
What should you NOT reveal in an interview? An interviewer asking these questions could open themselves up to discrimination lawsuits, and they should not ask, but everyone is human and they may forget. You should do your best to avoid these topics:
Salary History:
• Unless required by law or explicitly asked, avoid sharing past salaries. Focus instead on your salary expectations based on the role and market standards.
Personal Information:
• Avoid sharing details such as age, marital status, religion, or family plans, as these are not relevant to your qualifications for the job.
Negative Comments About Previous Employers:
• Speaking poorly about past employers or colleagues can raise red flags about your professionalism and attitude.
Political or Religious Views:
• Keep your opinions on sensitive topics to yourself, as they can create unnecessary bias or conflict.
Job Offer Details:
• If you’re considering multiple offers, avoid discussing specifics about other offers or negotiations.
Long-term Career Plans:
• While it’s good to express ambition, avoid discussing plans that may suggest you won’t stay long in the position (e.g., pursuing unrelated fields).
Health Issues:
• Unless relevant to the job or necessary for accommodations, it’s best to keep personal health matters private.
Financial Issues:
• Avoid discussing personal financial problems, as they can lead to assumptions about your reliability or stability.
Lack of Skills:
• Don’t dwell on skills or experiences you lack; instead, focus on how your strengths and experiences align with the role.
Gaps in Employment:
• While it’s okay to explain gaps, avoid going into too much detail. Keep it brief and focus on what you learned or how you grew during that time.
In interviews and design reviews one of the most common presentation mistakes is when someone says “I meant to…” or “I was planning to do [this] but didn’t get to it” or “oops, I didn’t mean to put that in here.” Now all I can think about was what you called my attention to. Focus on the merits of your application; they likely do not see what you see.
A job interview is like a first date. The best thing to do in an interview is be your authentic self and be honest. If your interviewer does not interact with the real “you”, and you are not seeing their real reaction, how can you be sure you will work well together? If the employer declines to make an offer, humbly ask for a debrief so you can learn for the next one; debriefs are common in marketing pursuits and show a high level of professionalism. A debrief is ideally in person or virtual to help maintain your connection for future opportunities, but any feedback is welcome. Every interview is an opportunity to learn something about the employer and about yourself, and you will grow with each one.
“A job interview is like a first date. The best thing to do in an interview is be your authentic self and be honest.”
Carrie Parker, AIA
Carris is the Young Architect Forum Strategic Vision Director and Associate Vice President in CannonDesign’s Arlington, VA office.
Everyone Should Have Hobbies
Personal Growth from Creative Endeavors
I want to preface this entire piece by stating that, just like many of the readers, I am not an author. Writing was never my strongest talent. I am, like many others here, an architect by trade. Architecture was never a clear path, especially as I grew up in Kistachie National Forest in Natchitoches, Louisiana. However, growing up, I was surrounded by a large family of creatives, achievers and thinkers. We all strived to make art, or understand how something worked, or create something.
Above: (fig. 1) high school art competition, pen and ink.
Below: (fig. 2) Danish furniture woodshop, final piece.
It wasn’t until high school and winning an art competition, where the entry had to be a drawing of a historic building (fig. 1) in my hometown, that architecture struck me as a possible career path. I realized I loved drawing the technical aspects of everything, making sure the details were right and wanted to continue this endeavor further. I wondered what was going on inside, not just the exterior and wanted to dive deeper into that aspect of the building.
I also realized at that moment that hobbies can lead to an interesting take on life and help you see things froma new perspective. Groundbreaking theology, I know, but at the time, I hadn’t thought of it like that. Hobbies were a break. Art was a fun little thing to do while I worked on finding a future job.
Once at college, I elected to study abroad and took a Danish furniture design course. I was not a stranger to a woodshop, as I had spent a fair bit of time in my grandfather’s growing up. I had spent countless hours with him, helping plane the rough lumber, stripping down the wood, stacking to dry, mocking up blanks and templates, helping with joinery, staining, finishing and then…I just stopped. High school came, and I wasn’t able to help or be in the shop as much; and then, I went to college. Sure, I got to make models, but it wasn’t the same. Only after getting back in the woodshop and building a chair (fig. 2) loved by my Danish host family was the spark reignited; I realized I still loved the craft. I started looking at the finer details in my designs. The
“...creation breeds innovation and self reflection, a sense of accomplishment and above all else - accountability.”
Above: (fig. 3) Detailed Revit model for Vieux Carre Commission review and permitting in New Orleans, LA.
little things. Things that, while in school some would say were overkill, or superfluous, I realized made my designs seem more human and more mine.
Now as a licensed architect, part owner and design principal at a firm, I still have to remind myself that those hobbies I have are good. They’re not a waste of time, and can actually provide more help than my training in some instances. Something else I loved growing up was gaming. I’ll always remember that Christmas, getting my turquoise Gameboy COLOR with Pokemon Blue and immediately spending the next 12 hours, a packet of AA batteries, and all my willpower on training my Charmander to catch them all! It never clicked that my love of gaming grew into my tinkering with computers. Another leap in time brings us to COVID, when I decided to build my own gaming computer. That rekindled that hobby and now, that love of computers has placed me squarely in the role of IT director at my office. It has also led to me handling more of the detailed and difficult modeling (fig. 3) as well as doing all of our renderings in-house (fig. 4).
All of my creative hobbies have shown back up over time. These three are just some of the most obvious examples in my life. Even now, I feel as if every time I pick a hobby up again, it teaches me something else about myself. I recently got back into live sketching (fig. 5 & 6). It has shown me I need to slow down; things take time and a sure hand is better than an erratic one. To
try and keep that mentality, I ended up joining the New Orleans chapter of Urban Sketchers and starting my own Instagram account, @gallions.sketchbook, so that I feel as if I’m being held accountable, both in person and online, in continuing this hobby.
What amazes me is that doing this has led to some cold calls, interesting conversations, and clients asking about certain things. My posts of live sketches, thought processes, and design processes have garnered some attention. My desire to keep growing as a live sketcher has led to new connections in the profession. They don’t always pan out, but the connection is there and the recognition among the right crowds is always positive.
I’d say if you don’t already have a creative release, I would encourage you to think about picking one up. My string of friends and acquaintances tend to find joy in cooking, furniture design, woodworking, sketching, stand up comedy, home brewing, gardening, and photography. These creative outputs will continue to mold you as a person and a professional (even if you’re not an architect). For me, creation breeds innovation and self reflection, a sense of accomplishment and above all elseaccountability.
Calvin Gallion III, AIA,
NOMA
Calvin is an architect and design principal at studio^RISE in New Orleans. He serves as EDI Chair for AIA NOLA, Louisiana’s YAR and as a graphic designer for CONNECTIONS.
Above: (fig. 4) Interior render of a recently completed ADU.
Left: (fig. 5) Urbansketch done at a layover.
Above: (fig. 6) Reference photo.
Aligned for Impact: ALIGN Alumni on Purpose, Practice and Power
The journey from initial licensure to AIA Fellow is rarely a straight path. It’s one guided by vision, mentorship, and purpose. The ALIGN program, a national initiative of the AIA Young Architects Forum, was created to bridge that path for young architects by aligning leadership potential with long-term career advancement. As we celebrate the recently elevated Fellows, we sat down with a few distinguished alumni of ALIGN whose stories exemplify the power of guidance, representation, and grit. Their reflections offer an honest, hopeful look into what it means to lead, serve, and elevate the profession while bringing others along.
R. Corey Clayborne, FAIA, MBA, CAE, is the Senior Vice President, Knowledge & Practice, at The American Institute of Architects (AIA). In this role, he is responsible for member education & learning, 21 knowledge communities, economics, research, climate action & design excellence, and professional practice for 100,000+ members to increase their value to clients, employers, and communities.
Most recently, Corey served as Executive Vice President and Chief Executive for AIA Virginia. There he was responsible for the success of the advocacy, education, outreach, and member services portfolios while coaching staff to tap into their fullest potential. During his five-year tenure, he grew its Political Action Committee (PAC), cultivated impactful industry and government relationships, and established AIA Virginia as a reliable, authentic resource on the built environment to city councils, mayors, the General Assembly, and the Governor. Prior to his role at AIA Virginia, Corey worked in private practice for 13 years managing local, state, and federal government projects.
In 2020, Corey was elevated into the AIA College of Fellows. Today, he serves on the Albemarle County Planning Commission (2023 Chairman), the Executive Committee for ACE Mentor Program of America (National Level), the Board of Directors for LEAD Virginia, and the Virginia Tech School of Architecture advisory board. He also continues to invest in a number of local organizations in Charlottesville, Virginia that strengthen the community.
PURPOSE
Jeffrey Patsva, FAIA, CPHC is an architect, leader, and coalition builder dedicated to addressing the housing shortage in the U.S. Throughout his career, Jeff has designed and built thousands of housing units, advised cities and neighborhoods, contributed thought leadership through published work, and founded committees to explore the issue in depth. With his expertise, leadership, and deep understanding of collaboration, Jeff has the tools to drive meaningful change, especially in the fight for better housing solutions In 2024, he was elevated into the AIA College of Fellows.
Gabriella Bermea (GB): How have you defined your professional purpose over the course of your career, and in what ways—if any—did ALIGN help you refine or reflect on that path?
R. Corey Clayborne (RCC): As an architect and member of the AIA College of Fellows, I feel it is an obligation to pour into the next generation of architects to facilitate their success and prosperity. Every single one of us can think back on our respective careers and charge its trajectory to a handful of individuals who made themselves available to listen, coach (coaching by not
telling me what to do, but sharing their experiences), and be a sponsor (advocating for me when I wasn’t in the room). I just want to pay it forward so they can reap a similar reward.
Jeffrey Patsva (JJP): I will preface these answers to say the pilot of ALIGN may have had a different charge than how it has evolved. While mentorship was always a goal, there was a specific target in my pod of helping those on the cusp of Fellowship to get there. For example, my pod “elders” consisted of Matt Dumich and Mary Kay Lanlizotta. Both were Fellows, YAF alumni, and Mary Kay had been a past Fellows Jury chair. We talked a lot about weaving our story together into what
would be a cohesive Fellowship application. On the other side, all the YAFers had already won the YA Award and were flagged as potential “future Fellows”. Since the pilot in 2019, 3 of the 5 YAs have been elevated and I suspect the other 2 will sooner or later.
PRACTICE
GB: Did ALIGN change how you choose where and how to lead—whether in the workplace, in the profession, or through volunteer efforts?
RCC: At the end of the day, I’m not really concerned about the title on your business card. That is “what” you are. Most don’t really care about that. I’m more concerned about “who” you are. The “who” is what makes you valuable – your unique skills, knowledge, and abilities. It is why you were hired. I learn just as much from others with a “lesser” title as I do from “high ranking muckity-mucks”. In my role as Sr. Vice President at the AIA, I try to instill that same culture within the team that I lead.
JJP: I don’t think ALIGN directly influenced my professional work, but it made me reassess my volunteer efforts. For example, I served on a number of AIA committees at the time, particularly at the local and state level. I was doing it as a method of giving back/lending my expertise as needed. However, it wasn’t cohesive. ALIGN made me focus more on aligning my passions
with the specific committees that are doing the work important to me and reinforcing where my expertise was.
POWER
GB: Now that you’ve been elevated, how are you using your platform to open doors for others and shift the profession forward?
RCC: Your network is your net worth. In the realm of “social capital”, I might be considered a billionaire….with a “B”. It brings me great joy and satisfaction to be able to use my relationships across the country to open doors for others to help advance their careers or provide opportunities that may otherwise not exist. One of the current initiatives that I’m passionate about is at Virginia Tech through my role as an advisory board member to the School of Architecture. Three years ago, I was instrumental in starting the W_internship program which places third-year students in paid immersive experiences within firms over a 10-day period during winter break. This program is open to all – but for minorities – it plays a vital role in opening doors to experiences that are often locked at that time without a professional connection. It allows students to put something under the “EXPERIENCE” header in their resume, thus making them more competitive in landing summer internships. Moving into its fourth cohort in 2026, we have seen student applications rise from 9 to 18 to over 50 – with continuous growth and impact expected.
Above: Image courtesy Jeffrey Pastva.
JJP: I’m not currently in a pod or any formal structure, but I try to make myself available and accessible to current emerging professionals as they seek guidance. One of the benefits of being a young Fellow is that I could have 3-4 decades of mentorship runway in that role. I aim to use it, so to readers of CONNECTION and beyond, they can find me on LinkedIn and I’m happy to offer advice.
THE ROAD AHEAD
GB: What’s one lesson or legacy you hope to pass on to the next generation of architects coming through ALIGN?
RCC: Continue growing your network and remember to pay it forward.
JJP: I’ve always used volunteering as a way to balance out my professional life and experiences. While it may seem like more work at first, this is where a lot of emerging professionals (myself included) were able to forge leadership development opportunities and break out of just being an employee.
The stories of these elevated Fellows are markers of momentum. Rooted in purpose, grounded in identity, and driven by service, each of them has woven together the seemingly unconnected pieces of their journey into a powerful narrative of impact. Whether through mentorship, advocacy, or simply making themselves available, they are creating the conditions for others to thrive. Their leadership is not defined by titles, but by generosity, the quiet, consistent act of opening doors, offering guidance, and paying it forward. As the next generation steps forward, they do so with a network of champions behind them. The future of the profession isn’t only being built, it’s being supported, nurtured, and shaped by those committed to leaving the ladder down.
Resources:
Align Mentoring Program Overview - AIA Community Hub
AIA Guides for Equitable Practice - Mentorship and Sponsorship
Virginia Tech W_ Internship Program
Gabriella Bermea, AIA is a Senior Associate and Project Manager at Perkins Eastman in Austin, TX, specializing in Pre-K-12 educational facilities. She is VP of Practice and Recognition for the Texas Society of Architects.
Finding Your Niche: How Specialization Fuels Career Growth in Architecture
We often hear about the celebrated “starchitects” and follow their well-documented paths. While there’s undeniable merit in traditional architectural careers, have you ever considered the power of deep specialization?
“What if I wasn’t an architect?”
Towards the end of my architectural career, I began to doubt my path. I felt a disconnect from the standard or traditional architecture showcased in magazines, biographies, firms, and architecture books. On the other hand, I started to see a greater connection with physical trainers and nutritionists who aimed to improve people’s health, especially those treating diabetes, mental health and hypertension, which are significant diseases in the United States. For me, the question of “what if I wasn’t an architect?” has a simple answer: I would still be deeply involved in promoting health and well-being. This intrinsic drive, coupled with an early focus, has shaped my journey in architecture, leading me down a unique path of specialization in sustainable design for commercial fitness facilities and wellness spaces for corporations. During an exchange program, when I needed to choose elective courses, I selected Aquatics, where I learned how to be a lifeguard and taught swimming to kids. While there, I also volunteered to coach soccer. In my summer vacations, I helped organize Sailing International tournaments. I wasn’t very interested in architecture at that time, but my very mature father guided me to finish my degree.
My passion for health and its profound impact on mental wellbeing, relationships, performance, and overall quality of life was ignited, and I found a way to complement my architecture journey. I felt more like a fitness coach than an architect, which is how my teachers and colleagues saw me in college. This realization led to my graduation project in 2013, “MED Gardens” – a non-built, conceptual project aimed at combating obesity and diabetes. Even then, these topics were not at the forefront of architectural discourse, but my personal experience fueled my conviction. This early exploration made me question if a traditional architectural career was the right fit, leading me to explore entrepreneurship in the fitness sector.
My first venture was a Design-Build firm for the creation of the first calisthenic park in Ecuador, a project I remain incredibly proud of. With limited experience, but boundless passion, we chose sustainably sourced farmed teak as a building material for this design-build project, demonstrating an early commitment to environmental consciousness. This hands-on experience laid the groundwork for my future endeavors.
Because of that project an experienced Architect, who was my first Professional Mentor, Pedro Velez, gave me the opportunity to collaborate on the Salinas yacht Club’s Mayor Renovation expanding my experience in different sport facilities.
“This international exposure...provided invaluable technical knowledge about the nuances of various fitness machines”
This project opened the door to an international opportunity in Panama with FITU, the exclusive Life Fitness representative for Latin America. Over my time there, I had the privilege of working on diverse fitness projects across the region, from resorts in the Dominican Republic to private clubs in El Salvador, commercial gyms in Guatemala, and even governmental and school facilities. This international exposure not only broadened my understanding of different cultures and project requirements but also provided invaluable technical knowledge about the nuances of various fitness machines – understanding the specific uses and technical differences between treadmills or machines targeting specific muscle groups became second nature, much like a traditional architect understands HVAC systems. At Life Fitness, I realized that the expertise in fitness that I had was also because of the hobbies that I had before: soccer team in México, soccer team in Australia, sailing competitions in Ecuador, etc. At this moment, I understood that the more seriously I pursued my hobbies, not would my health improve, but I would also be more professional and credible when talking with clients. So, at this moment, I rejoined soccer teams and fitness clubs across Panama. One example is that I was the one who tested machines in the company and gave my opinion on how to sell machines and how they could be applied in the designs. When manual treadmills arrived at the office; no one realized the advantages of the manual treadmill beyond not needing to use electricity. I decided to go to the office in my fitness clothes to demonstrate the other advantages. I performed a full training on that machine and gave a clear visualization of what the machines are used for and where they should and should not be used— manual training should not be put in a residential complex, but yes in schools. At the same moment of my career took the LEED GA verification in order to understand more the health and sustainable approach of the building environment
My career then took a turn towards the corporate world with a role at CHEIL, Samsung’s advertising agency. While this experience helped my career evolution by honing my project management skills and providing deep insights into branding, corporate strategies, and the commercial drivers behind design decisions, I didn’t enjoy the feeling of working on projects for commercial electronic goods as much as fitness design projects. I realized that when designing a fitness-focused project, I approached it as if it were for my own use because I genuinely loved fitness facilities. This understanding of the business side of design, despite not being my passion, would later prove invaluable. At this moment, I went into practicing for a Half Ironman, so my expertise grew. I learned how smartwatches work, all the measurements of the body; again, I was able to explain to clients the difference between all bikes, treadmill, exercises for runners, team sports, what can help swimming, etc. I could tell that when
I was training for the Ironman, I was literally practicing and advancing my professional knowledge.
Returning to Life Fitness for a second stint allowed me to leverage my expanded skill set. One notable project was the ADIDAS Gym within the Bladex Building in Panama, one of the first of its kind in Latin America dedicated to the employees of ADIDAS. This project perfectly aligned with my passion for creating spaces that positively impact people’s lives through fitness, a focus I aim to expand upon in the future.
Understanding that to have a greater impact in my career, and already possessing experience working with an American company, I wanted to move to the United States. I recognized a huge national interest in helping to combat diseases like diabetes and hypertension, areas closely linked to fitness and well-being. My specialized experience then led me to PSA Architects in Cincinnati. I was specifically hired from Latin America due to my unique background in commercial and fitness design. At PSA Architects, my responsibilities focused on design and the production of construction documentation, including electrical design, plumbing drawing coordination for important brands like CycleBar, BFT, and Club Pilates. This was a pivotal moment as I transitioned from conceptual and functional design to working on projects adhering to standardized corporate brand guidelines, a knowledge I had gained at Samsung. My role at PSA Architects involved significant technical architectural work, further solidifying my expertise.
Driven by a desire to contribute to a larger scale and advocate for healthier cities, I became involved with the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Joining the Urban Design Committee, I am actively participating in shaping the dialogue around our cities, particularly focusing on how urban design can facilitate fitness and well-being.
“...public health solutions often require more than just private sector initiatives”
Recognizing that public health solutions often require more than just private sector initiatives, I also serve as the AIA National Associate Representative and hold positions in the Advocacy Committees of the NAC and the Ohio Board. With my previous experience in triathlon, I understood better what people need in order for people to commute by biking and running; I understood that street design was not the major issue, but having a place where to shower was the biggest issue, something I have experienced before. This involvement empowers me to advocate for public regulations that support my vision, such as the inclusion of showers in commercial facilities and the creation of public spaces conducive to exercise before work. I have found that the AIA is one of the greatest tools for specialization and career growth because it provides opportunities to meet a diverse range of people, extending beyond the limitations of one’s immediate work environment. Through the AIA, you understand how to professionally integrate passion, profession, and advocacy. I had some volunteer experience, but advocacy for the profession was always good for me. Also, this advocacy helps people trust your movements.
After finishing my AREs and getting my architecture license I went to Sol Design and Consult. Where I specialized in technical sustainable design, putting my LEED GA certification into practice. I firmly believe that the future of fitness facilities must prioritize energy efficiency for both environmental and financial needs, given their high energy consumption. Now my hobbies are soccer and swimming. I am registered for an open water competition in Dayton, so I am learning more specific swimming training, more specialized than when I trained for the Ironman. Another thing is that I am training with my daughter, so now my specialization is also combined with the challenges and importance of family restrooms, safety, water temperature –something that for solo training I never considered, but now with my daughter, there are different things to be considered, helping my expertise to consider young girls’ needs. Knowing this gave me a perspective that the specialization of fitness never stops and we have challenges in every corner, which is the reason I joined the International Association for Sports and Leisure Facilities. Now I am in a good position to be in a Professional group specializing in my endeavor to share my experience and learn also from other experiences.
I now work as a Project Architect at MT Studio, a company that designs Planet Fitness an. My ultimate career evolution will culminate in the launch of my own firm, Brandspace Architects. The mission will be simple: to empower more people to engage in exercise through the creation of thoughtfully designed and sustainable commercial fitness facilities and wellness spaces within corporations. This venture will focus on small and medium-sized commercial gyms, allowing for a specialized and impactful approach to promoting health and sustainability within communities across the United States. My journey, fueled by a lifelong passion for the national interest of public health and a dedicated focus on a specialized niche, demonstrates the powerful synergy between personal drive and professional evolution. Find your key points on how to measure success. I measure mine by more people exercising with my projects. Being driven by personal beliefs and passion in a specific endeavor will give you the energy to succeed.
Manuel Granja, AIA, MBA, PMP, LEED AP is a Project Architect at MT Studio in Troy, OH. Granja is interested in fitness and human mobility in the architectural environment.
So, you got your license. Now what?
Newly Licensed Workshop
For many of us, the thought of finishing your education, gathering all required experience and passing the ARE’s, is the finish line. The reality is, this is just another beginning in your professional career. Many acquire their license with the intent to never actually seal drawings, viewing it more as a pathway to freedom. Regardless of why you sought licensure, the question remains: what’s next?
Well, that is the question AIA Phoenix Metro Chapter sought to answer. In the summer of 2021, as an offshoot of several introductory meetings between the new AIA Arizona Executive Director John Czarnecki, Assoc. AIA and local firms, James Wesala, AIA (at the time AIA Arizona’s AIA10 Director) pitched a Young Architect program event idea. An idea to create a workshop to discuss what licensure in Arizona is about. But being John’s first year as Executive Director, the effort was considered too ambitious, so the workshop was shelved.
“The once shelved workshop was immediately reinitiated with the potential to be a premier event for newly licensed architects in Arizona.”
Fast forward three years and James, at this time appointed to be AIA Phoenix Metro Chapter’s AIA10 Director, was again asked to serve AIA. The once shelved workshop was immediately reinitiated with the potential to be a premier event for newly licensed architects in Arizona. James led the conversation, while collaborating with the AIA10 committee members, to begin planning the early 2025 workshop. Over the course of 2024 the workshop was planned and marketed to newly licensed members and non-members.
The workshop was planned as a half-day event on a Friday afternoon, with prominent local speakers from the profession that delved into several conversations about how to use a newly acquired license and ways to protect oneself from liability.
Additionally, a critical facet of the workshop was to tailor this event as an opportunity to introduce the benefits of AIA membership to non-members. Thus, the workshop was open to non-members as a membership recruitment effort..
The workshop was planned to hit on several key areas to assist newly licensed architects to develop their careers while using their newly earned seals in a responsible manner.
The workshop kicked off with a brief introduction about AIA and the several key benefits that membership offers, highlighting three key items (cost, knowledge, and engagement) by Executive Director John Czarnecki and James Wesala.
The first key benefit of AIA Arizona membership as a newly licensed member is the stepped dues program that offers early members a discount that increases the dues over several years here in Arizona.
The second key benefit of membership, offered at the National level, is knowledge sharing through the Knowledge communities as well as other resources with AIA Trust and AIA Contracts.
Finally, there is a multitude of local AIA subcommittees where a diverse area of interest are covered - from the unique podcasting subcommittee with Tracing Architecture to The Women in Architecture subcommittee, to the more nationally echoed subcommittees such as the COTE committee and EDIB subcommittee.
After the brief intro, Rachel Green Rasmussen, AIA, a Partner at Architekton in Tempe and current President-Elect of AIA Arizona presented her topic - Path to Leadership - Strategies to elevate your career at a Firm
Rachel is well versed to speak on Leadership as an innovative architect with over 17 years of experience, she is known for creating spaces that balance functionality and inspiration. Rachel shared her story of how she grew into her current position with her early experiences at Architekton, where as an intern, she designed a facade screen element, went to school and 3D printed it, then brought the model into the office, where it was developed into the final design. By demonstrating her initiative and self-drive, she quickly impressed her superiors and colleagues that started her career elevation.
Next up, we had James B. Wright, a local attorney and member of Clark Hill’s Construction Law group. He presented his topic - Architect’s Seal - Legal responsibilities and potential Liabilities - Strategies for Protection
With his background in law, he provided a unique perspective on all the topics he spoke about using an Architect’s seal. He started by explaining what an Architect’s seal was and what they meant. He followed up with the technical requirements for seals and required use of the seal. The next two topics, “Restrictions on Use of Seal” and “The Regulatory Consequences of Improperly Sealing Documents” seemed to spark the attendee’s interest. Overall, James’ presentation had the greatest engagement throughout the workshop, which was surprising as his presentation had no graphics.
Our next workshop presenter is a prominent local architect, the founder and principal of Jones Studio, Eddie Jones, FAIA. Born in Texas and raised in Oklahoma, Eddie spoke about his great passion and ways to multiply his efforts with - Moonlighting / Side Work - Self-Development as an Architect
Eddie holds the rare ability to create responsive architecture, timeless in design yet bound distinctively to its place, an ability that is represented by his numerous design awards. He talked with the group about how he moonlights from his own firm, which allows him to take on smaller design projects that enable him to experiment and try new design elements. As a proponent
of design in any fashion, Eddie advocates for his colleagues at his studio to take on sidework and moonlight as a mechanism for development.
As a pause between speakers, we took the time to recognize all the newly licensed architects in attendance and presented them with a seal holder. The seal holders were hand crafted by members of the AIA committee.
Then the fourth presenter was Ryc Loope, FAIA, a practicing architect and retired faculty from the design school at ASU. While at ASU he served as the Inaugural Director of ASU’s first trans-disciplinary master’s degree program in real estate development (MRED) and with his Harvard Business School training he was well prepared to present his topic - Finances - Separating and Protecting personal assets for professional liability.
During Ryc’s presentation, he spoke about the process and benefits of creating an LLC and how to separate your personal asset from your business. One item of note is to place any assets owned outright within a trust to shield it from possible liability.
Our final presenter was Caroline Lobo, AIA, the founding Principal of suoLL architects. Her firm practices a design sensibility that transcends time, is experimental, experiential, sustainable and well rooted in its local environment. She has grown into a prominent firm by developing relationships with people in our profession and was well prepared to speak on her topic - Fostering Connections: People+Place+Experience
Caroline, a very engaging storyteller, related how when she started her firm a key relationship facilitated her landing a large contract. Her existing relationship with a general contractor was the lynch pin in the owner’s decision to go with Caroline’s new firm, which demonstrates the fact you never know who your greatest ally will be.
The workshop culminated with a social mixer at a local establishment where a drawing was held for all attendees to win gift credit at the AIA online store.
James Wesala, AIA Architect at Smith Group, Professor at The Design School.
Interview with Graciela Carrillo, FAIA
Previously Published in COF Quarterly Q2 2025
Graciela Carrillo, FAIA
Graciela Carrillo, FAIA, works as a Senior Manager at Nassau BOCES Facilities Services, coordinating the school’s capital and operational projects serving Nassau County school districts.
She is deeply involved with the American Institute of Architects (AIA) at the local, state, and national levels, having served as the 2024 Moderator of the AIA Strategic Council, 2017-2018 Young Architects Forum New York State Director, 2020-2021 President of AIA Long Island, and Co-Founder/Co-Chair of the AIA Long Island Women in Architecture Committee. Currently, Graciela is serving as the AIA 2025-2027 At Large Director. Graciela is also a Co-Founder of the Immigrant Architects Coalition, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting immigrant architects in advancing their careers. As a national speaker and podcast host, she has co-authored two books “City Shapers: Stories of Immigrant Designers” and “Prospering in the U.S.: A Handbook for Immigrant Architects” and contributed to “Latinas in Architecture”.
Jessica O’Donnell, AIA
Jessica O’Donnell, AIA is a Senior Project Architect at Urban Practice in Camden, New Jersey, where she focuses on affordable and attainable multi-family housing. She is a national volunteer leader with AIA, NCARB, ACE Mentorship, and NAAB. Her contributions to the AEC industry to date have resulted in Jessica being recognized as a 2022 AIA Young Architect award recipient, a 2022 BD+C Network’s 40 under 40 honoree, and a 2024 Engineering News Record New York Top Young Professional. Jessica was the 2022 Chair of AIA’s Young Architects Forum and is the 2025 Moderator of the AIA’s Strategic Council.
Jessica O’Donnell (JO): Congratulations on being elevated to Fellowship in the Class of 2025! As a Fellow who Led the Institute, what does advancement into the College mean to you?
Graciela Carrillo (GC): Being elevated to the College of Fellows is both a humbling honor and a powerful affirmation. As an immigrant woman architect, this milestone transcends personal achievement—it’s a recognition of collective impact. It validates the work I’ve done to create space for underrepresented voices, and reinforces my commitment to lead with purpose, empathy, and advocacy. I also want to inspire other minorities to pursue fellowship. Representation at all levels is important to set the precedence for more immigrants to apply and be recognized.
JO: What advice would you give to those considering applying for Fellowship?
GC: Start early, and let your story guide the process. Fellowship isn’t just about how long you’ve been involved—it’s about the transformational impact you’ve made. It’s about the ripple effect
your work has had within the profession, community, and AIA. Reflect deeply and honestly: How has your leadership moved the needle? Whose lives have you changed? What legacy are you building? These are the questions that matter.
One of the most valuable things you can do is begin documenting your journey early in your career. Keep track of speaking engagements, interviews, written articles, events you’ve organized, awards, mentorship roles, publications, and leadership accomplishments. Having that archive will not only save time later, it will help you see your own story more clearly.
Surround yourself with a support team. Seek out mentors who can help you reflect, mentees who can speak to your influence, and Fellows who can share their perspective. These individuals can serve as advisors throughout the process. Most importantly, recruit a team of trusted reviewers who will give you honest, constructive feedback. This isn’t just about polishing language— it’s about making sure the message lands with clarity and heart.
JO: As an AIA member and volunteer leader for over a decade, can you describe what inspired your initial
engagement in AIA?
GC: Initially, I joined AIA because I was searching for connection. When I arrived in this country, my professional environment was heavily engineering-focused, and I wanted to connect with other architects. Once I joined, I realized the AIA was more than just a professional network—it was a platform for possibility. As I became more involved, I started to see the gaps in representation and the urgent need to create space for voices like mine—immigrant, Latina, female voices that had historically been underrepresented in the profession. That realization shifted everything for me.
It wasn’t enough to just be at the table—I wanted to help shape the table. I saw how the AIA could be a catalyst for change, and I knew I could use it as a vehicle to uplift others, to mentor young professionals, and to advocate for equity, inclusion, and diversity. I started leading initiatives, forming new committees, mentoring students, and speaking out on issues that mattered to me and to so many others. What began as a search for belonging quickly turned into a mission: to build community, champion women and emerging professionals, and ensure that the future of architecture has equal access to all. Through AIA, I found not only my voice—but a purpose greater than myself.
JO: What is your favorite part of being a volunteer leader with AIA?
GC: Without question—the people. Collaborating with passionate, visionary, and mission-driven individuals has been one of the most enriching and inspiring aspects of my journey with AIA. Whether working at the local, state level or on national initiatives, I’ve had the privilege of building relationships that transcend professional networking—they’ve become bonds
grounded in shared purpose, mutual respect, and a collective desire to move the profession forward.
One of the most fulfilling experiences of my volunteer leadership was my time serving first as the New York State Representative to the AIA Strategic Council, and later as Moderator of the Council. That experience was transformative. The Strategic Council brings together a pool of experts, leaders, and innovators from across the country—each offering a unique perspective shaped by their region, their background, and their commitment to elevating architecture and architects. To work alongside such an exceptional group of people, to listen, to learn, and to collectively shape strategic visions for the future of the Institute—it was not only an honor, it was a lesson in the power of collaborative leadership.
JO: You have authored and co-authored several books, including Latinas in Architecture, City Shapers: Stories of Immigrant Designers, and most recently Prospering in the US: A Handbook for Immigrant Architects. What is one key takeaway from those experiences and what advice do you have for others looking to publish a book?
GC: Stories are powerful tools for connection and change. One of the most meaningful takeaways from these experiences has been hearing readers say, “I can relate to this story…” That moment of recognition—of being seen, understood, and validated—is incredibly transformative.
A turning point for me was when Alicia Ponce, AIA, founder of Arquitina, invited me to contribute to the first book, “Latinas in Architecture.” That invitation wasn’t just about sharing my story—it opened the door to deeper collaboration among Latinas across the country. It helped spark a wave of momentum and solidarity among women like me, who were working to break
Above: Photo courtesy of Graciela Carrillo, FAIA: 2025 Princeton Latinas in Architecture Summit
barriers in the profession. Most importantly, it helped us focus our collective energy on Arquitinas mission: raising the percentage of licensed Latinas in the U.S.
Another key takeaway is the opportunities for collaboration that publishing creates. Once a book is out in the world, it becomes a platform that brings people together—authors, readers, advocates—who are aligned by a common vision. These books didn’t just exist on a shelf—they became catalysts for conversations, mentorship, speaking engagements, and crosscultural understanding.
For anyone looking to publish a book, my biggest piece of advice is: start with your “why.” You don’t need to have every chapter planned or every detail figured out. What you do need is clarity around the purpose of your story and the audience you want to reach. Also, don’t let the logistics intimidate you. You can work with an editor to ensure your story reads well, and there are many affordable options to publish—whether through a small publishing company or self-publishing platforms like Amazon.
JO: What leadership initiative are you most proud of and why?
GC: Co-founding the Immigrant Architects Coalition (IAC) alongside Yu-Ngok Lo, FAIA, and Shahad Sadeq, Assoc. AIA is one of the most meaningful and transformative leadership initiatives of my career—and of my life. What began as a shared realization between the three of us has evolved into a non profit organization rooted in support, empowerment, and visibility for immigrant architects across the United States.
We started the IAC because we saw—and personally experienced the challenges that immigrant architects faced. While many conversations were happening around equity, diversity, and inclusion, no formal platform was explicitly dedicated to immigrant architects’ unique struggles. These are professionals who often arrive with extensive education, experience, and talent, yet face enormous challenges: from licensing and language
challenges to immigration restrictions and a lack of mentorship or cultural belonging within the profession.
What began as a grassroots effort has become a thriving and rapidly growing coalition that provides resources, mentorship, community, and a space to highlight voices of immigrant architects.
Our impact is tangible. We’ve hosted national webinars, published two books, launched a Podcast that amplifies voices, created a mentorship program, offered scholarships, and created pathways for immigrant architects to find guidance and belonging. But more than that, we’ve helped people feel less alone. We’ve built a community that not only acknowledges the challenges, but celebrates the strength and resilience it takes to overcome them. And it’s about using whatever platform you have to lift others as you climb.
JO: Describe one of your favorite volunteer initiatives: either one you started personally or one you have participated in?
GC: The Women in Architecture (WIA) Committee at AIA Long Island is, without question, one of the most meaningful initiatives I’ve had the honor of co-founding with Ebru Sulker, Assoc. AIA. It holds a deeply personal place in my heart, not only because of the impact it’s had, but because of how it began—at a moment when I needed inspiration the most.
In 2017, I was awarded the Sho-Ping Chin Grant, which allowed me to attend the AIA Women’s Leadership Summit. That experience was transformative. I walked into a room filled with women from across the country—leaders, mentors, and changemakers—and for the first time, I saw a reflection of what was possible. The energy, the stories, and the shared commitment to equity and leadership moved me in a way I hadn’t anticipated. I left that summit not just inspired—but activated.
When I returned home, I looked around and saw a contrast. At the time, there was very little female participation in our AIA Long Island Chapter events, and I was the “only” woman serving on
Above: Photo courtesy of Graciela Carrillo, FAIA: Immigrant Architect Coalition Book Co-Authors after book signing at AIA24
Above: Photo courtesy of Graciela Carrillo, FAIA: Members of the AIA Global Practice Committee who also collaborated as co-authors of the two publications led by Graciela at the Immigrant Architects Coalition.
the Board. It became clear to me that we were missing not only representation, but also a space where women architects could find support, mentorship, and community. That realization— combined with the fire sparked at the Summit—became the catalyst to co-found the AIA LI Women in Architecture Committee.
Today the Chapter Board is now 50% women. In 2017, just one year before WIA was launched, I was the only woman serving on the AIA LI Board.
JO: Describe one of your most recent engagement initiatives and why it is important to you?
GC: One of the most meaningful and recent initiatives I’ve had the privilege of co-creating is the Licensing Series Podcast through the Immigrant Architects Coalition (IAC)—a project I developed alongside Gloria Kloter, AIA. This podcast is deeply personal to me, not just as a professional, but as an immigrant myself who understands the complexity, the isolation, and the sheer determination required to navigate the path to licensure in the United States.
The podcast shines a light on the real, often untold stories of immigrant architects who’ve earned their licensure within the last two years. These are not just career milestones—they are stories of resilience, sacrifice, cultural adaptation, and triumph. For many of our guests, it’s the first time they’ve been invited to share their journeys in a space where their voice matters. And for our listeners, these stories offer something powerful: hope, guidance, and a roadmap.
This project matters to me because I know what it feels like to walk this path that often looks challenging. Through this podcast, we’re making sure others don’t have to do it alone. We’re saying: your story matters, your struggle is valid, and your success is possible.
JO: What advice would you give to those who are looking for ways to engage with AIA?
GC: Start small and follow your interests. Attend an event, join a committee, volunteer for a cause you care about. AIA is a space where your voice matters and your contributions can grow into leadership. There’s room for everyone—and your perspective is needed.
Above: Photo courtesy of Graciela Carrillo, FAIA: 2023 AIA LI Women in Architecture Event
Above: Photo courtesy of Graciela Carrillo, FAIA: 2023 AIA Strategic Council Assembly Meeting
Growth + Career EvolutionMy Journey in Architecture
“...encouragement gave me the confidence to pursue an opportunity that would ultimately change the course of my career.”
My journey in architecture began in 2011, when I enrolled in architecture school in my hometown in Brazil. A few months into my studies, I had the opportunity to intern with the engineering division of the local Department of Education, where I worked under the guidance of an architect who would become one of my earliest mentors. A couple of years later, she invited me to join her private architecture firm— an experience that expanded my perspective and surrounded me with her business partners who were not only highly skilled but deeply invested in my professional development. When I shared my goal of studying abroad, their encouragement gave me the confidence to pursue an opportunity that would ultimately change the course of my career.
In 2014, I set foot in the United States for the first time as an enthusiastic exchange student, ready to embrace a new culture, language, and way of life. It was my first time living away from home, and I was determined to make the most of the experience. I attended architecture school in Ohio as a guest student and interned at an interior design firm in New York City. That experience was nothing short of transformative. It gave me a firsthand look at the AEC industry in the United States and
opened my eyes to the possibilities a global architecture career could offer.
At the time, I was still midway through my bachelor’s degree in Brazil, but my time in the U.S. exposed me to lessons that extended far beyond the classroom. I learned the importance of networking, how to present myself professionally, and the value of building lasting relationships. The mentors and colleagues I met during that time became pivotal in helping me envision a future for myself within the U.S. architecture community.
With their encouragement, I returned to the United States as a graduate student, earning a Master of Architecture degree from the same school I had once attended as an exchange student. There, I was introduced to the American Institute of Architects (AIA), an organization that would become central to both my personal and professional development. AIA not only expanded my understanding of the architectural profession, but also emphasized the responsibility architects hold in shaping equitable, resilient communities.
Graduate school gave me more than a degree—it gave me a space to grow as a leader. I had the opportunity to serve as an International Student Ambassador, where I supported fellow international students and collaborated with campus leaders to build a more inclusive environment. I also served as a teaching assistant, a role that deepened my appreciation for educators and reinforced my desire to mentor and uplift others in the profession.
Graduating in 2020, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, brought challenges I could never have anticipated. The job market was uncertain, and for months I sent out resumes to hundreds of firms across the country, often without a response. Despite the discouragement, I remained committed and focused. During this time, my AIA network proved invaluable. Through conversations and advice from colleagues, I shifted my job search strategy to focus on local firms—even those not actively hiring. Eventually, one firm saw my potential and gave me a chance.
That first role post-graduation allowed me to dive into real-world projects, assisting with design development and construction documentation while learning from experienced architects. I quickly found myself involved in client meetings, gaining insight into the architect-client dynamic and developing my voice as a design professional.
As my responsibilities grew, so did my confidence. I began co-leading presentations, managing small-scale projects, and navigating the complex world of project coordination. These formative experiences gave me a deeper understanding of the architecture and construction process—and affirmed the type of leader I aspire to be.
Outside of project work, my engagement with AIA has remained a cornerstone of my career. Over the past five years, I’ve served at both local and state levels. I currently sit on the AIA Toledo Board as the AIA Ohio Chapter Alternate Director, a role that also grants me a seat on the AIA Ohio Board, where I serve on the Public Awareness Committee. These leadership roles have given me a broader platform to advocate for the profession and for emerging professionals, whose voices are essential to the future of architecture.
Within my firm, I’m equally passionate about creating space for growth and mentorship. I proposed and co-found our Young and Emerging Professionals Forum—a space dedicated to empowering the next generation of designers through connection, collaboration, and shared learning.
Today, as an NCARB Licensure Candidate preparing for the Architect Registration Examination (ARE), I remain committed to my professional development. The process of studying for licensure has been both humbling and motivating, a reminder that growth is a continuous journey and that the pursuit of excellence is never truly complete.
Since 2011, I’ve worked in architecture firms across Brazil and the United States. Each role, each city, each challenge has contributed to the professional—and person—I am today. Through it all, I’ve been guided by mentorship, resilience, and a deep-rooted passion for architecture. From an exchange student discovering her place in the world to a practicing professional contributing to meaningful projects and community impact, my journey is still unfolding.
Every chapter has brought growth, and I look forward—with humility and excitement—to the ones yet to come.
Isabel Souza, Assoc. AIA, FITWEL AMB.
Isabel is a design professional with 10+ years in the AEC industry, working at PMBA Architects in Ohio.
Practicing Architecture in the Public Realm
To be a public architect is to not practice architecture. And yet, one must have practiced architecture to effectively be a public architect. Perhaps I should explain.
In every Town, City, County or State government there are architects scattered throughout the organization. They are engaged in practice(s) that you probably rarely think of, doing work that is fundamental to the built environment around us. These civil servants eschew politics, instead focusing on the needs of the public. They act as stewards of Health Safety and Welfare (HSW) in everything from permitting, to design, to urban planning, and even budgeting.
Before I became a public architect, I would have sworn I could never see myself in any place but private practice. It’s what every
aspiring architect learns about first in the studio. And it is a worthwhile experience. One that teaches people the importance of organized drawings, clear details, time management, contractual obligations, and administration of construction contracts. Just as the best defense attorneys start with experience as prosecutors, there is no better teacher of building a building than working for the architect laboring to bring their vision to reality.
It’s probably obvious I’m an advocate for gaining private sector experience as the foundation of one’s career. I do believe it’s the best
“Before I became a public architect, I would have sworn I could never see myself in any place but private practice.”
Above: Photo by Lance Asper
preparation for the gamut of architectural practice, even as I take time to acknowledge it has downsides that we must continue to correct. But what about after the glow of passing your ARE’s when you’re asking yourself “I’m licensed, now what?”.
That experience gained in the private sector is exactly what makes an architect the ideal person to guide the development of the public space writ large. But to have a hand in public space will almost always mean letting go of design control. While it is true that some public architects are self-performing design work within their organizations, the majority of us are not. Rather, to be a public architect is most akin to being an owner’s rep. You select design teams. You set the design scope. You select contractors. You attend OAC meetings as the owner. You act as the conduit between stakeholders and the design team.
There are hard skills needed in civic work, and they all draw on foundational knowledge learned working in design and construction. In fact, having worked in a private practice (big or small) that has engaged in commercial or institutional work, may be the only way to learn the baseline skill sets necessary for public practice . Most of public practice work in AE fields is focused on budgeting, scope, and oversight of design professional’s and contractors. Working with stakeholders to develop needs assessments that form the justification of new public projects. Generating estimates and budgets of design and construction costs that lead to budget allocations for future work. Narrative scopes of work for design and construction from which RFQ’s and RFP’s will be issued. Negotiation of fees or bids and the associated Excel tracking that goes with it. Oversight of AE’s as they produce their instruments of service and oversight of contractors following those instruments. It is in fact a world of word documents and spreadsheets.
Public practice is also expectation management, the soft skill of civic work. You’re charged with managing the expectations of the taxpayers, the stakeholders, and the elected officials. You need to keep all parties on schedule with agreements and milestones while balancing the project vs. stakeholder needs. Public practice is also professional communication. How you say something can be just as important as what you say. You must convey accurate and truthful information, sometimes to audiences who are not afraid to tell you how wrong they think you are. In this environment you must ensure your information is validated and impartial, focused on the scope and performance of design in the face of political or budget pressure. These skill sets require prior experience in project management, consultant management, and staff management typically gained working in
the private sector of architects and engineers.
So why did I start out saying one must have practiced architecture to effectively be a public architect? Because as licensed professionals we bring lessons learned and instinctive oversight of HSW issues from private practice to the public’s benefit. What we lose in control of the design we gain in the power of the purse and the ability to set the agenda. We’ve all had projects where we watched choices made for the wrong reasons and we’ve all seen these same choices lamented later by those that made them. Working in the public sector offers an opportunity to stop those mistakes from happening before they start. Architects bring value to the management of public design and construction work by bringing subject matter expertise that serves the taxpayer’s best interest. That expertise just takes on new forms of practice.
Is everyone involved in public sector design or construction an architect? Not at all. It takes an army of professionals to create the public space we inhabit. But licensed architects and engineers are well suited to stewarding the public’s funds and trust into the creation of facilities that convey the future and solve the challenges of today.
Bounds, AIA, NCARB, CGC is a Miami native, a Construction Project Management Supervisor in the Public Works department of Broward County, and AIA Florida’s Young Architect Representative (YAR).
Bryce
The Ethics of AI in Creative Practice
The ethics of AI have been a topic of discussion for some time now, with people holding a wide range of perspectives. I personally approach new technologies with a neutral stance, welcoming innovation while critically evaluating its potential strengths and limitations. Over the past few years, I’ve spent time researching and experimenting with different AI tools, particularly how they intersect with design in the AEC industry.
Recently, the widespread use of OpenAI’s image-generation tools to create Studio Ghibli-style renderings has raised significant legal, ethical, and cultural concerns.1 2 Studio Ghibli is a renowned Japanese animation studio, internationally celebrated for its storytelling, hand-drawn artistry, and distinctive visual style developed by creators like Hayao Miyazaki. The intersection of art, ethics, and technology has never been more visible or contentious. What began as a whimsical exploration of aesthetic impression has rapidly become a complex web of copyright law, the ethics of AI-generated art, cultural appropriation, and an ongoing debate on the role of AI in creative disciplines. With this trend, we are witnessing an inflection point that impacts digital artistry and has profound implications for creative authorship across professions.
Studio Ghibli’s work is deeply human. It’s rooted in hand-drawn expression, emotional storytelling, and cultural depth. That is what makes the irony so sharp: AI-generated Ghibli-style images imitate the look, but not the soul.
In a 2016 clip3 that resurfaced recently, Miyazaki famously rejected an AI prototype, calling it “an insult to life itself.” Though he was speaking about animation, his sentiment resonates across creative disciplines, including architecture.
At
the core of the debate is a fundamental legal question: Can style itself be copyrighted?
At the core of the debate is a fundamental legal question: Can style itself be copyrighted?
Technically, the answer is no. Copyright law protects specific works, not styles.4 This distinction allows AI tools to produce images “in the style of Ghibli” without technically violating the law. Since these images are technically “new” creations and
the source training data remains undisclosed, companies like OpenAI shift responsibility to the user.5
But the ethical issue runs deeper. Should an artist’s visual language be replicated without their consent or credit?
As someone who mentors students and emerging professionals, I have started to see AI-generated work creeping into studio submissions. The concern is not just about plagiarism, but about losing sight of what it means to cultivate a personal design language. In practice, the stakes are even higher. An architectural brand is deeply tied to visual identity and a firm’s visual identity is hard-earned and brand-defining. If AI-generated renderings start to represent that identity without any authorship, it raises serious questions about intellectual labor, originality, and even liability.
Studio Ghibli’s work is inseparable from its cultural and philosophical roots. Stripping the visuals from this context for the sake of internet aesthetics or design exercises does a disservice to the original intent. The same applies to architectural works rooted in place, culture, and history. Mimicking aesthetics without respecting the context leads to hollow design. In our line of work, style is never just about appearance. It is generally informed by program, site, materiality, and community. AI, by contrast, often flattens design into pattern recognition, making decisions based on visual cues rather than critical thinking. This disconnect can undermine the integrity of the design process itself.
That said, I don’t think AI is inherently harmful. When used thoughtfully, it can aid ideation, speeding up visualization, and helping small firms or students explore ideas. But we need to be intentional about how we use it, as ethical use requires clear frameworks.
This Ghibli trend is just one lens into a much larger picture of ownership, ethics, and authorship. As these tools become more accessible, the temptation to use them for speed or spectacle will grow. Architecture is grounded in meaning, process, and purpose. If we let AI shortcut that journey, we risk turning our discipline into a collage of borrowed aesthetics—disconnected from context, culture, and authorship.
Footnotes:
1. The AI Generated Studio Ghibli Trend, Explained, Forbes. 2. People Love Studio Ghibli. But Should They Be Able to Recreate It?
3. Hayao Miyazaki’s Thoughts on an Artificial Intelligence 4. Copyright Registration Guidance, United States Copyright Office
5. Open AI Terms & Policies
Saakshi Terway, Associate AIA also sits on the Immigrant Architect’s Coalition which is a non-profit organization committed to empowering immigrant architects on their journey to professional success.
More information can be found here: Immigrant Architects
A design professional based in DC working at Quinn Evans, Associate Representative to Strategic Council
Saakshi Terway, Assoc. AIA
Education Outreach Through Student Design Competitions
Everyone has heard the saying, “A little competition never hurts anyone,” but I would argue that this phrase personifies competition as more of an obstacle than it deserves to be. In my experience competition presents an opportunity to challenge oneself beyond their perceived limits, or to measure one’s abilities against those of their peers. Every architect has likely encountered this dynamic, and many professionally thrive within the community of competitions. Participation alone can place someone in front of the right people at the right time, opening doors to opportunities that may not have previously been considered. This is exactly why competition is beneficial in the professional realm and vital in the academic one. For students who have only begun to scratch the surface of what the architecture industry is, a competition can lift the veil of mystery and ignite the early stages of what could become a remarkable architectural career.
ACE was also where I first saw the power of competition used as a motivational tool. The prospect of winning gave the students a healthy sense of drive—it pushed them to dig deeper, engage more meaningfully with their mentors, and take ownership of the design process. As a mentor, it would have been easy to simply give them answers, so-to-speak, but I came to understand that the real value lay in guiding them to discover those answers for themselves. That’s the core challenge of mentorship: knowing when to step in and when to step back, recognizing that every student learns differently.
Encouraging perseverance while providing the right prompts helped foster the kind of motivation that not only led to strong presentations, but in one case, a win in the competition. The experience also led to lasting relationships. I ended up writing several letters of recommendation for those students, many of whom went on to pursue degrees in engineering or architecture.
“Competition presents an opportunity to challenge oneself beyond their perceived limits”
I have been actively involved in student competitions across nearly every organization I’ve joined, taking on a variety of roles, from mentor to juror and organizer. Regardless of my role, there’s a unique sense of gratification in contributing to the development of our industry. Of course, that sense of fulfillment doesn’t come without its challenges, some of which I will discuss Mentorship Through Competition
Most professionals, regardless of their background or experience, vividly remember the early stages of their careers. The impressions and experiences we gather during that formative time shape both our future paths and our perception of the industry. Today, with increasing efforts to expose students to the profession earlier, this shaping process often begins much sooner than it did for many of us. Personally, I wasn’t truly introduced to architecture as a profession until a few years into college.
Organizations like ACE Mentorship, a well-established nationwide program, play a crucial role in providing that early exposure. Through ACE, high school students have the opportunity to work directly with professionals in collaborative, mentor-guided environments. It was through this program that I had the privilege of mentoring several students as they developed their own design projects, culminating in presentations and juryselected awards.
Providing Value as a Juror
Serving as a juror for a student competition is a meaningful experience. It’s gratifying to be recognized as a qualified professional, and it reflects the belief of the selection committee in one’s ability to provide valuable insights to the students. I have had this privilege with two organizations: the ACE mentorship program and, more recently, the SchoolsNEXT student competition, an A4LE initiative.
In both instances, I had the opportunity to attend virtual presentations by students, during which I provided real-time feedback and critiques. While this format offers less interaction compared to being a mentor, it is nonetheless significant for the students. In those vulnerable moments, students deeply consider the feedback they receive, often holding onto it for the long term.
Therefore, the juror’s challenge is to ensure that feedback is constructive, encouraging students to think critically and expand their understanding. This is where a juror’s value truly lies; a well-delivered comment can inspire a student to explore a career in architecture as they contemplate their future paths.
Getting It Started and Seeing it Through
One of the most gratifying experiences during my time in organizational work has been helping to establish the Texas Society of Architects (TxA) Student Design Challenge while serving on the TxA Education Outreach Committee. Together with a dedicated team of architects and educators, we developed a statewide competition for secondary school architecture students. As of 2025, the competition is entering its fourth year, solidifying its place as a key program for the organization and enhancing its recognition within the profession across the state.
Initially, I believed that formulating the competition prompt would be the greatest challenge. However, I quickly discovered that it was relatively simple. Especially since we aimed to align the topic with the overarching theme of the annual TxA conference. The real challenge emerged later when we needed to effectively communicate the competition to schools and their teachers. Fortunately, one of the committee members had dedicated considerable effort to compiling a comprehensive list of active contacts, which helped generate a strong number of submissions from the outset and maintain that level of participation in subsequent years.
Among the many submissions, several schools consistently stood out, most notably, students from the Guthrie Center at Spring Branch ISD and Eldorado High School’s Aztec Architecture Academy. Both programs have submitted entries nearly every year, with students consistently showing a strong desire to engage with the industry.
In particular, watching Eldorado rise as the inaugural winners of the competition and continue to secure top placements has been remarkable. I’ve witnessed firsthand how a high school architecture program can grow and significantly elevate its students, driven in large part by the motivation that competition fosters. This is a clear demonstration of how effective competition can be in inspiring students and advancing the profession through meaningful outreach.
Related Links:
ACE Mentor Program
SchoolsNEXT
Student Design Challenge - Texas Society of Architects
Guthrie Center Architecture Program Excels at TxA 2024 Design Challenge | Featured News
El Dorado architecture students win state student design competition for fourth straight year
Kyle Kenerley, AIA
Kyle is an Associate at Modus Architecture based in Dallas, Texas where he works on healthcare and workplace projects as the project manager and technical design lead.
TxA 84th Annual Conference & Design Expo
Guthrie Center Architecture Program Excels at TxA 2024 Design Challenge
Through the Looking Glass:
When an Architect Becomes a Developer
Stephen Harris, AIA is the Executive Vice President - Development at Lanoha Real Estate Company in Omaha, Nebraska. Harris is also involved in the community on local design committees and initiatives, and as a juror for undergraduate architecture studios.
Andrew Gorzkowski (AG): Stephen, thank you for sharing with our readers. Can you tell us a little bit about your journey from architect to developer?
Stephen Harris (SH): The transition grew out of an existing relationship with a client I had worked with for several years as an architect. In some ways the move to the other side of the table has been very natural, as one of my projects as a developer is continuing to work on a project that I started as an architect. One of my reasons for switching roles was to continue to grow and see more sides of a project, and I am pleased to continue to learn new things every day about the financial, political, management, and legal aspects of the projects.
AG: Transitions can be intimidating. What steps did you take to ease your transition?
SH: I was fortunate that my transition was pretty smooth. I took some important steps to understand the role I have stepped into though conversations with friends in similar positions and my future colleagues. My most important preparation, however, came during the many years of my career as a practicing architect. The thorough understanding of detailed projects and how they move from an idea on paper to built form was crucial preparation for my current role, but even more important was the years of experience I got working with people. Leading teams, working directly with clients, and shepherding projects through entitlements processes set the foundation for how I work today. As always, good projects can be exciting, but working with great people is the most rewarding part of this field.
AG: As a developer, what architecture-honed skills do you use less than you expected to? Which skills do you use more than you expected?
SH: There are aspects to working with design teams that feel very similar to my previous role, and I am certainly involved in project management and construction administration, though from a different perspective now. The fundamentals of how a project comes to life and what fits on a site are still the same, and I am pleased to be able to lead those early feasibility studies internally.
AG: What has surprised you most about your new role in development?
SH: My new role is certainly different, but in many ways, I am surprised at how natural the transition has been. I spend zero time in Revit and more time than an architect would like to spend in Excel, but I feel like this transition has been extremely smooth.
AG: What are the similarities and differences have you noticed in workplace culture in the two professions? What elements of developer firm culture would you encourage the architecture profession to borrow?
SH: As is true in architecture, there is a wide range of development firms and their associated cultures. My firm is plenty flexible but emphasizes being in the office to collaborate and work most effectively together. The opportunity to have a quick conversation about a project, rather than scheduling a
meeting helps move things forward more quickly. We also work to focus on meeting topics and attendance to make sure we are not spending time in meetings that are not productive. My colleagues joke that I learned how to be good at being in all-day meetings as an architect, and they are retraining me to spend less time in meetings.
AG: Architecture and development require overlapping, yet distinct skill sets. Which skills possessed by successful developers would you like to see more architects at all career stages focus on developing more?
SH: Although this is likely the expected answer, I will still offer that it is critical that architects understand the economics of a project. All projects, even those not created through a developerled process, can benefit from architects thinking ahead to better understand what moves the needle on the financial side of a project to create value for their clients through the design process.
AG: What advice would you give someone considering shifting from architecture to development? What key questions should they ask themselves to figure out if it would be a good fit?
SH: Development is very different than architecture, but both are necessary to bring projects to life. As a developer I still feel like I am creating, but certainly in a less direct sense; I do not have my hand on the pencil. It took some soul-searching as I was considering this position to figure out if I was ok with that transition and having less direct impact on design. In my current role I am now ‘the client,’ so I relish the opportunity to work with architects and design teams to bring projects to life, but I absolutely miss the ability to see the design process from the inside. I am extremely happy in my new role, but I had to make the decision that I wanted to focus less on the question of how a project looks and functions, and more on how a project can come to fruition at all. Essentially, it is a wider lens looking at the same process.
Andrew Gorzkowski, AIA is a Senior Associate at Pickard Chilton in New Haven, CT. Passionate about the future of the profession, Gorzkowski also serves as the Young Architect Representative for Connecticut and co-chair for the local COTE community.
Above: Tour of Mutual of Omaha Headquarters, Courtesy of Stephen Harris
ABC | Archi-TEXT Book Club
So
Good They Can’t Ignore You, A Review
So Good They Can’t Ignore You: Why Skills Trump Passion in the Quest for Work you Love, by Cal Newport and reviewed by Justin Marquis, AIA, NCARB.
If you opened up a career guidance book and found the phrase “Don’t Follow Your Passion” listed as Rule #1 you would think it was a joke, but that is exactly how Cal Newport’s 2012 book So Good They Can’t Ignore You begins. While searching for titles to start our new Archi-texture Book Club, I came across a review that said: “I would recommend this book to any 25-year-old graduate, who is faced with seemingly difficult career choices or the 35 year old, who wonders why she feels worse after her raise.” These both seemed like pretty relatable experiences for any recently licensed Architect, so I thought this could make a great pairing with this quarters CONNECTION theme of “Growth + Career Evolution”.
and burnout, paired with the state of our profession, maybe architects are not those rare examples we think ourselves to be? With that in mind, I decided to approach this book by accepting Newport’s argument as true, to see what we might learn from his research.
The book is nicely laid out and organizes its main thesis into “4 Rules”, with each one spread out over a couple chapters, making for a quick read. Newport still manages to pack a lot of concepts and theories within each rule by laying out the rules main idea, providing an example anecdote from his research, and then adding some caveats to each. I found the caveats to be troublesome though, as some of the limitations/disqualifiers create rules within rules that muddy the simplicity of the book’s core message. Nonetheless, I did find that the main highlights to be reasonable, digestible, and actionable.
“...as architects, we identify so much with our career and feel it IS our passion...”
The overall argument of the book is to challenge what the author calls the “Passion Hypothesis”, or that preexisting passions are rare and have little to do with how most people end up loving their work. So, blindly following what you love can lead to disappointment, anxiety, and burnout. I found this theory interesting since, as architects, we identify so much with our career and feel it IS our passion that led us to where we are. Knowing how much time that schooling, interning, exams, and licensing takes, the process MUST have weeded out the non-passionate from among us, right? Then again, looking at the list of negatives: disappointment, anxiety,
The central message of the book is not to chase your passion, but to master skills that people find valuable. The mastery of the skill becomes its own reward, causing you to love the work. Career satisfaction then follows. Newport calls this “The Craftsmen Mindset” to contrast against the aforementioned “Passion Mindset (hypothesis)”. If you build rare and valuable skills, or what he calls “Career Capital”, then you can spend it on the three traits he identifies as defining great work: Creativity, Impact, and Control. I really liked this approach to building skills to invest in things that actually make your life better, especially in comparison to today’s prevalent hustle culture. Investing your resources into control over your schedule or being able to do work you find meaningful, seems like a great reason to build skills.
As an architect I really liked this idea of “perfecting your craft.” When reading the section about rare and valuable skills, I couldn’t help but think of an analogy to the specification writer in the office. To be a specification writer, one needs to have a very intimate knowledge of a very specific, but important, part of the process. It is usually staffed by a person that has honed their skills in the profession but also the unique and rare skill of putting together a specification book. While this doesn’t always lead to total control for them, as they are not always immune to the last minute email asking “can we pull something together by tomorrow?”, it does ensure they are an indispensable member of
Above: Image by Calla Bardwell, Assoc. AIA.
the firm. I would imagine Newport would tell any specification writer they should leverage their essential skills to make sure they feel they have creativity, impact, and control in their work. Anecdotally, I know of a freelance specification writer that has honed his craft so much that he gets to select which projects he accepts, sets his own fee rate and timeline, and lives/works 9 months out of the year….. in Costa Rica, only coming back to the US to visit family when it suits him. How is that for autonomy?!
This also brings to mind one of the articles in this quarter’s issue of CONNECTIONS titled, “Finding your Niche: How Specialization Fuels Career Growth in Architecture” by Manuel Garanja, AIA. You can find this article on page 19. In his article, Mr. Granja outlines how he has entwined his intimate knowledge of physical training, nutrition, and sports culture, cultivated over many years as a marathon athlete, with his schooling and training in architecture to bring deep value to his clients and projects. While reading his article, I couldn’t help but return to the idea that there must be something more than just being the subject matter expert that goes into perfecting your craft. Go read his article and then tell me that his passion for sport has nothing to do with shaping his career.
Overall, I agree with a lot of the ideas Newport explores about building skills, but I think there is some room to flex and blend his ideas. He notes a lot of examples of people who use this craftsmen mindset to hone their skills - like comedians, musicians, and TV writers. The thing I kept coming back to is, does passion really have no part to play? Newport sets up the craftsmen versus passion mindsets as dichotomies, when I can’t help but feel you need BOTH to be successful. You need the skills and mastery to move to the next stage of your career, but you also need the passion to carry you through those long nights of actually getting good. I feel as though the craftsman mindset is a really good way to reframe an approach to career development to avoid burnout and fatigue. However, I find it hard to believe that that alone creates or sustains passion. Mr Granja tested different fitness equipment just to understand how each piece might fit into his gym designs better. He needed both the craftsmen mindset of an architect but the passion mindset of a marathon athlete to fully bring his projects together.
Ultimately, the book does a good job of giving some actionable steps for people to try and implement in their own practice with simple, pithy, and easy-to-remember ideas. So I too agree with that initial reviewer, and recommend this book to any 25-yearold graduate, who is faced with seemingly difficult career choices
or the 35 year old, who wonders why she feels worse after her raise. The answer might be to develop your unique skills and perfect your craft as best you can in an effort to grow. Though, my only personal addition would also be to never forget why you fell in love with Architecture in the first place.
If you read this quarter’s book we want to hear about it! If you loved it or hated it, whether it is one sentence or one paragraph, let us know! You can reach us at nicolejbecker1@gmail.com
Our next issue’s book will be Likeable Badass by Alison Fragale, PhD. If you have any books you would like added to the list let us know!
Above: Likeable Baddass promotional material, via Alison Fragale’s Website.
Justin Marquis, AIA, NCARB
Justin is a Project Architect with Somerville Architects & Engineers in Green Bay, Wisconsin. He serves as YAR for Wisconsin and serves on the Editorial Team for CONNECTIONS.
Connect + Chill
Cocktails & Streaming Content for the Casual Consumer
Each quater the YAF Knowledge Focus Group curates streaming video content and a cocktail / mocktail recipe to salute each quarterly theme. In Q2 we highlight Growth + Career Evolution with the following recommendations:
(the new whey is the non-alcoholic alternative to the cognac)
Ingredients: (double the portion for two servings)
2 oz De Nigris Rose Sweet Vinegar detoxify, balance blood sugar, and support digestion
2 oz Milk
the whey from milk is a protein source, rich in essential amino acids, and can aid muscle grow th, repair and overall health
Instructions:
Prep a coffee filter on top of an old fashion glass
Pour the milk into the vinegar, then pour the mixture into the filter As career evolutions take time, this chemical reaction takes 15 minutes to filter Once the new whey mocktail is readyadd a block of ice and relish the goodness
Change has many benefits - grab some crackers, spread the natural cheese that remains after the milk’s whey is strained out, and toast to the new whey!
(this mocktail is best served over a ball of ice)
What I Learned on my Journey to Become an Architect - Dami Lee (34 min) - An architect, entrepreneur and digital storyteller, Dami shares how she started her journey and evolution to today - changing how the world sees architects / architecture.
My Evolutionary Journey as an Architect - Bjarke Ingels (50 min) - Hear Bjarke share about his growth+career evolutions in his second quarter of his journey; from his formative years to the friends that pour into his life, he is able to craft his story in this lecture at Harvard.
Alternative Careers for Architects - Joann Lui (11 min)
Watch this video to explore a framework for the sphere of alternative careers for architects.
C ognac embodies the pinnacle of craftsmanship, where each sip reveals the culmination of years of meticulous aging and exper tise - a process that mirrors the trajector y of a distinguished architect’s career
A continuous evolution - where tradition meets innovation, resulting in a depth and sophistication through reputation in time
Instructions:
Dim the lights, turn on your favorite chill music - close your eyes and breathe deeply As you sip the worlds most complex and prestigious spirit, savor this timeless moment, and reflect on how your career can grow and refine over the next quarter or year
Author Bio: The AIA YAF Knowledge Focus Group is dedicated to identifying important issues of recently licensed architects and the creation of knowledge resources to enable young architects to advance their careers
