The Architect Licensing Advisors Community is a group of individuals committed to assisting licensure candidates and architects as they navigate the path to licensure and reciprocity. Architect licensing advisors provide guidance throughout the licensure process by facilitating the flow of information to architecture students, licensure candidates, and architects. The program is led by NCARB and jointly supported by the American Institute of Architects. Appointees serve a two-year term.
As an architect licensing advisor, you’ll gain access to resources and support to ensure you’re equipped to help candidates, including access to NCARB’s online advisors community, exclusive webinars and training resources, and more. Plus, you’ll have direct NCARB staff support for questions and guidance.
Activities of a State Licensing Advisor
Every month this position will require 12 to 16 hours of your time. A licensing advisor is expected to engage with candidates in your community on a regular basis and stay active in the community by:
- Maintaining a thorough understanding of the AXP, ARE, and NCARB certification requirements, objectives, and resources
- Connecting with local candidates—both by request and proactively—to provide licensure information and guidance
- Participating in Architect Licensing Advisors Community training and development events
- Communicating with your local licensing board to maintain a thorough understanding of licensure requirements and procedures
- Attending AIAVA member events; e.g., Quarterly Component Calls, Architecture Exchange East, Town Halls in local components, etc.
- Making sure that your contact info in My NCARB is up-to-date so local candidates can reach you
- Every other year, NCARB hosts the Licensing Advisors Summit, an exciting and engaging conference where you can meet NCARB staff, engage with other advisors, hear updates on NCARB programs, and explore factors that impact the pursuit of licensure. NCARB waives summit registration fees for all licensing advisors and provides travel funding for many advisors. The next summit will be held in 2027 (date and location TBD).
Application Requirements
AIA Membership – Applicant must be an AIA member in good standing within AIA Virginia (AIA Blue Ridge, AIA Central Virginia, AIA Coastal Virginia, AIA Northern Virginia, and AIA Richmond) and must be licensed not more than 10 years at the time of submission.
Letter of Interest – From Applicant. Indicate understanding of the position, qualifications/experience, and reasons for seeking election. Limit one page.
Letter of Nomination – From an AIA local or state component Board Member. Indicate the connection between the State Licensing Advisor position and the Nominee’s leadership qualities. Limit one page.
Letter of Recommendation – From an AIA member. Indicate the Nominee’s qualifications for the licensing advisor position. Limit one page.
Letter of Support – From Employer. A Principal (or Officer) within the candidate’s firm must commit to supporting the candidate in fulfilling the role’s obligations. Limit one page on company letterhead.
Resume – Indicate education, employment history, organizations, activities, honors, and awards. Limit two pages (It is NOT in the applicant’s best interest to simply submit a firm resume with project experience).
Prospective candidates should send their application materials to EVP Paul R Battaglia, AIA at pbattaglia@aiava.org no later than Wednesday, July 30, 2025. Submissions will be reviewed by the Nominating Committee to confirm eligibility. The Board of Directors will review candidates and make an appointment during its Meeting scheduled for Friday, August 15, 2025 for a term commencing on September 1, 2025.