News from National 11.16.20

Calling all students: 2021 CRIT Scholar Research Grant Program

AIAS and AIA are seeking applicants for the 2021 CRIT Scholar program. If selected as a CRIT Scholar, students receive a $1,000 grant towards their research along with a mentor. Proposals in various stages of research will be reviewed. Students should be AIAS members and applications are due November 30th, 2020. Learn More

Architects Foundation scholarships now open

Do you know any aspiring architects? Encourage them to apply for an Architects Foundation scholarship by January 15! Help us empower the next generation of architects by sharing this opportunity with your members. Apply Today

Best Practice: Marketing plans

Well-developed marketing plans and analyses help new architecture firms complete the most critical business task: getting work. This best practice includes a marketing plan outline and sample market analysis, which are beneficial to a firm’s success by identifying and analyzing a firm’s markets, capabilities, organizational structure, and more. Learn More

AIA unveils new logo

New visual identity implemented to support AIA priorities

To signal a big change, you have to change something big.

That’s the guiding principle behind AIA’s updated brand identity, which launches this month.

In 2019, triggered by the increasing threat of climate change, AIA committed its full  influence to eliminating building carbon emissions by 2040. In 2020, following the murder of George Floyd and the ensuing demonstrations for social justice, AIA pledged to pursue racial equity – in our association, in our profession, and in the communities we build – with the same dedication.  

As an organization, AIA is evolving to reflect new, 21st century challenges. To achieve maximum influence and impact, AIA’s updated visual identity, approved by the Board, signals that evolution and reinforces commitment to achieving meaningful change in the built environment.

“AIA’s vote to propel the full force of our resources toward climate action marked a defining moment for our organization, and this year’s decision to pursue racial equity with the same urgency is another turning point,” commented AIA 2020 President Jane Frederick, FAIA. “Architects understand how design communicates meaning, and this logo underlines AIA’s commitment to designing a zero-carbon, resilient, healthy, just, and equitable future for everyone.”

See the logo, learn more about AIA’s new focus, and join us in this effort at blueprintforbetter.org.

News from National 10.21.2020

Call for submissions: Innovation Awards

The Innovation Awards recognize the exemplary use and implementation of innovative technologies and progressive practices among architects, designers, collaborators, and clients. We encourage members to submit their best projects by October 26.  Submit your project >

Updated AIA documents released

On Oct. 19, AIA Contract Documents released new documents including two complex residential documents, the popular Condominium Project guide, an updated Contractor’s Qualification Statement, a revised Pro Bono services contract, and a new Warranty Bond. See how these documents can enhance your practice.  Learn more > 

CRAN® seminar series 

Six AIAU live courses will focus on timely topics including practicing during COVID-19, social equity, and sustainability. This series replaces the annual CRAN Symposium and will run through December 2020. Earn up to 5 LU/3 HSW  Register >

Free Webinars

New residential agreements and guide

Residential construction is fraught with risks, especially condominium projects. Join a free webinar to understand how to manage and mitigate residential project risks by examining updates to key AIA residential documents and the updated Condominium Projects guide. Earn 1 LU. Register >

Five key contract clauses 

Design firms must have a thorough understanding of five key clauses. Join us on Nov. 5 for a free webinar as presenters review these important contractual clauses and how to identify, negotiate, and incorporate these clauses successfully. Earn 1 LU. Register >

Pandemic prognostication - A common sense approach to senior living design 

This course discusses how senior living communities and design professionals responded to the pandemic, how these responses affected senior living residents, and what we all learned. Earn 1 LU. Register >