Pub. 1 2013 Directory

18 THE MONTANA ARCHITECT | 2013 | www.aia-mt.org T his past fall the Montana State University School of Archi- tecture Graduate Council hosted a “So You Want to be an Architect” roundtable discussion with current students. The students were able to ask candid questions about beginning their architectural internships such as, “Are small offices better than big offices” and “Is getting licensed even worth it?” We were able to share our opinions with the students, emphasize the importance of licensure, and prepare them for the transition between studio and the office. The discussion reminded me of why I wanted to be an architect. If you are an architect, remember what made you decide you wanted to be an architect? Maybe it was a hands-on experience building something . . . or an experience in a high school art or drafting class . . . or a teacher that encouraged you to consider architecture because you were good at math. Each AIA Montana member has his or her own unique story about why they wanted to be an architect and how he or she got there. If you are a student, you may be wondering how to get from where you are to being an architect. There are four main steps to becoming an architect – education, experience, examination, and licensure. Many students choose to begin with education. Most states, in- cluding Montana, require an accredited degree in architecture such as a Bachelor of Architecture or a Master of Architecture, which is offered at Montana State University in Bozeman. Over 120 schools of architecture have degree programs that are accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). These programs take from five to seven years to complete. Classes will include design, hand graphics like sketching, drawing, and painting, computer graphics for 2D and 3D programs, history, and theory. They will also include studying building systems such as structures, lighting, power, heating and cooling, and plumbing. Many times these courses and what you learn are the foundation for the remainder of your architectural career. The next key step is experience. Your architectural experience can begin after high school graduation, while attending architecture school, or after you have graduated from college. Most state regis- tration boards required the completion of an internship program before becoming licensed. The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) administers the Intern Development Program (IDP), a program widely accepted by state boards. This comprehensive training program requires the completion of 5,600 hours to gain the knowledge and skills needed to independently prac- tice architecture. After you have completed your education, Montana and many other states allow you to immediately begin the examination step. All states require candidates to pass the Architectural Registration Examina- tion (ARE) to become licensed. The current ARE is formatted into seven divisions which include multiple choice and graphic vignettes. The ARE is developed by NCARB and offered at test centers across the United States and internationally. The next version of the ARE is currently in development and is anticipated to launch in late 2016. After you have completed your education, experience, and exam- ination, you are likely to be eligible to become licensed to practice architecture by the state board. Each state has their own licensing re- quirements, so candidates should check with each registration board for the application and licensure process. States required licenses to protect the public health, safety, and welfare. By becoming licensed, you will be able to call yourself an architect and provide architec- tural services. It also provides opportunities to grow your career in architecture. So you want to be an architect? While the road can be long and winding, it does not have to be. Become familiar with the steps and what to expect along the way. For more information on becoming an architect, check out www.aia.org, www.ncarb.org, and www.archcareers.org. Or ask an architect, I am sure they would share their story. So You Want to be an Architect? SHANNON PETERSON, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C, AIA MONTANA IDP COORDINATOR CELL 801.554.4587 SETH ATKINSON SALES SUPERVISOR E-MAIL satkinson@lutron.com w