Architects intuitively understand the importance of networking. However, it?s also a concept that often gets implemented only after dealing with our ?putting out the fire? lists: meeting deadlines, working on one more design scheme, responding to clients and consultants in our daily practice.
I recently experienced the benefits of networking through serving on the newly established AIA Canada Society?s board?which was surprising to me, since my work with the Society took place almost entirely during the though the pandemic.
In the fall of 2019?before anyone knew how a virus was going to change our lives?I received an email from someone I met at an AIA Conference years ago. He invited me to get involved with the newly established AIA Canada Chapter, which consists of US-licensed architects practicing in Canada. The lack of AIA presence here in Canada has always seemed peculiar to me, considering that I have met many Canadian architects who had studied and gotten licensed in the US. Perhaps due to our proximity to the US, it was felt that there was no need for a separate board presence in Canada. We could all attend the AIA conferences happening in the US.
But this is not practical or economical for many Canadian architects with AIA designations. Every year, I have to consider carefully whether the expense of renewing my AIA membership is worthwhile?as I am sure is the case for many other Canadian architects who trained in the States.
The newly established Canadian chap...