As part of the California Architectural Practice Experience (capX) program, CAF is committed to sharing valuable resources that support the next generation of architects. We’ll provide tools we develop, as well as those contributed by the capX community.
Have a resource that could help firms or aspiring architects? Whether it’s a guide, template, or mentorship advice, we’d love to share it! Your contribution can make a real difference in shaping the future of the profession. To share a resource, please contact kanderson@aiacalifornia.org.
Ways an Intern Can Contribute To Your Bottom Line
Looking for ways to maximize efficiency while mentoring the next generation of architects? Interns can provide valuable support across research, organization, marketing, client presentations, and site visits—freeing up your team’s time and enhancing workflow. Need suggestions on how interns can contribute to your firm’s success? Click here (from AIA California’s Working for You, Feb 2025).
Tips For Working with the Next Generation of Architects
Want to better connect with and support emerging architects? From fostering collaboration to embracing new technology, small shifts in your approach can make a big impact. Learn practical tips to engage, mentor, and inspire the next wave of talent. Click here.
Stand Out: Resume, Portfolio & Interview Strategies
This panel discussion offers practical insights on crafting standout resumes and compelling portfolios, making a lasting impression in interviews, and leveraging community and professional engagement to differentiate themselves.
Shaping Talent: Internships + Job Shadow Insights for Firms
Hear from leading California architects as they share how firms can successfully engage, mentor, and grow future talent through internships and job shadow programs. This capX Firm Meet-Up explores practical strategies, real-world examples, and the value these experiences bring to both firms and emerging professionals.
Architecture Experience 101
How to prepare for and get the most out of your architectural job shadow or internship. Speakers: Ida Clair, FAIA / California State Architect and Liam Hanlon, Assoc. AIA.
(Available via passcode to enrolled capX participants).
Architecture Experience 102
Offers insights on firm structure and operations, and skills to sharpen while job shadowing or interning at an architecture firm. Speakers: Mark Roddy, FAIA / SmithGroup, Mark Graham, AIA / PBK and Katee Chard, AIA / Carrier Johnson + CULTURE.
(Available via passcode to enrolled capX participants).
Guide the California Licensure Process
Obtaining a professional license is a clear and compelling statement about one’s knowledge and qualifications to practice architecture and protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public. Getting there is a rigorous process of education, experience, and examination—not an easy process, but to make it manageable, it’s broken down into five steps. There are licensing advisors to help you and a variety of resources at the state and local AIA Chapter levels.
AIA-U Courses
Becoming an Inclusive Mentor in Architecture
Becoming an architecture mentor is one of the most meaningful ways to support the next generation of design professionals. This interactive course prepares you to become the best mentor possible by building the skills needed for effective, inclusive, and sustainable mentoring relationships. Drawing on the AIA Guides for Equitable Practice, proven research, and national models, you’ll explore the purpose and impact of mentorship, distinguish between mentoring, coaching, and sponsoring, and learn how to set clear goals and boundaries. Emphasizing inclusive practices, this course helps mentors recognize bias, build trust across differences, and foster equitable growth for mentees. Through real-world scenarios and guided reflection, you’ll develop strategies for navigating common mentoring challenges and assess your readiness to mentor with confidence, empathy, and intentionality.
Becoming an Empowered Mentee in Architecture
Becoming a mentee is one of the most powerful ways to shape your professional growth in architecture. This course equips you with the knowledge and skills to engage effectively and confidently in mentorship programs. Drawing on the AIA Guides for Equitable Practice, proven research, and national models, you’ll explore the purpose and benefits of mentorship, distinguish mentoring from coaching and sponsorship, and learn how to set clear goals, communicate effectively, and build a professional network. Emphasizing inclusive practices, this course helps mentees recognize bias, build trust across differences, and take ownership of their professional development. Through real-world scenarios and guided reflection, you’ll develop strategies for active engagement, self-assessment, and problem-solving strategies—ensuring your readiness to maximize the value of mentorship relationships.
The California Architectural Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to promoting excellence in architecture through scholarships, grants, and educational programs–bridging the gap between the academic and professional worlds. CAF exists to provide a mechanism for members of the AIA and the general public to contribute to an organization with a great benefit to society.
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1931 H St, Sacramento, CA 95811
T: (916) 642-1730
E: kanderson@aiacalifornia.org
