Construction Administrator

Posted on by cguske

VIA design | Norfolk, VA

ABOUT VIA DESIGN
VIA isn’t just about designing spaces; we’re about shaping the future. Guided by our three core principles of future-focused design, client-centricity, and community-driven initiatives, we strive to create architecture that not only shapes the built environment but also positively impacts the lives of those who interact with it. Our team members are dedicated to strong design and enhancing our communities through our work and civic engagement, a passion that is nurtured through close mentoring, skill building, and exploring the best of the region.

POSITION OVERVIEW
VIA is seeking an experienced Construction Administrator to manage the construction process for all of our projects. We’re looking for a highly organized, ethical, and collaborative professional with a proven track record and at least 7 years of professional experience. This role is a great fit for a seasoned architect, design or construction project manager, or construction superintendent with a passion for construction.

In this role, you will be responsible for overseeing the full range of construction administration duties, from interpreting design documents and managing submittals to coordinating with contractors and ensuring design intent is executed successfully. You must also balance a rapid response to on-site issues with meticulous documentation and budget compliance, and be proficient in Revit, Navisworks, and Microsoft Office Suite.

Interested individuals should submit a letter of interest, resume, and digital portfolio using the employment interest form at viadesignarchitects.com/careers

posted 9/12/2025

Project Architect

Posted on by cguske

VIA design | Norfolk, VA

ABOUT VIA DESIGN
VIA isn’t just about designing spaces; we’re about shaping the future. Guided by our three core principles of future-focused design, client-centricity, and community-driven initiatives, we strive to create architecture that not only shapes the built environment but also positively impacts the lives of those who interact with it. Our team members are dedicated to strong design and enhancing our communities through our work and civic engagement, a passion that is nurtured through close mentoring, skill building, and exploring the best of the region.

POSITION OVERVIEW
VIA is seeking a talented and licensed Project Architect with 5+ years of experience to join our multidisciplinary design team. We are looking for a collaborative team player with a proven track record of bringing projects to life, from concept through construction.

As a Project Architect, you’ll be challenged daily to lead a team of designers and guide decisions that result in beautiful spaces while meeting our clients’ goals. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of managing built work and facilitating multiple projects with a variety of team members. You should also be able to communicate design intent effectively through both sketching and digital production. This is an excellent opportunity for professional growth, offering involvement in the full range of skills required by an architect:

• Business Development: Proposal development and interview participation
• Design & Strategy: Schematic design and client presentations
• Project Execution: Executing construction documents and managing projects through construction

Interested individuals should submit a letter of interest, resume, and digital portfolio using the employment interest form at viadesignarchitects.com/careers

posted 9/5/2025

Project Leader

Posted on by cguske

VIA design | Norfolk, VA

ABOUT VIA DESIGN
VIA isn’t just about designing spaces; we’re about shaping the future. Guided by our three core principles of future-focused design, client-centricity, and community-driven initiatives, we strive to create architecture that not only shapes the built environment but also positively impacts the lives of those who interact with it. Our team members are dedicated to strong design and enhancing our communities through our work and civic engagement, a passion that is nurtured through close mentoring, skill building, and exploring the best of the region.

POSITION OVERVIEW
VIA design is seeking an accomplished Project Leader with an active architecture license and 6+ years of professional leadership experience. This is a project management position where you will work directly with VIA Principals to define and execute the project vision from schematic design through construction administration.

As a Project Leader, you’ll be challenged daily to lead teams of designers and consultants, guiding decisions that deliver beautiful, functional spaces and expertly achieve client goals. You’ll be responsible for the full project life cycle, managing and tracking schedules, budgets, and performance across multiple concurrent projects to ensure the design intent is executed successfully. The ideal candidate must have a proven track record of managing built work and a strong understanding of the architectural process.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced professional to have a tangible impact on both our projects and our people, as you will also play a crucial role in developing and mentoring our internal project teams and fostering a culture of shared learning.

Interested individuals should submit a letter of interest, resume, and digital portfolio using the employment interest form at viadesignarchitects.com/careers

posted 9/5/2025

Robert L. Easter, FAIA named 2025 recipient of the William C. Noland Medal

Posted on by cguske

Robert L. Easter, FAIA, NOMAC, has been named the 2025 recipient of the William C. Noland Medal, the highest honor awarded by AIA Virginia, recognizing a career of distinguished, far-reaching contributions to architecture.

Easter is President of KEi Architects, with offices in Richmond, VA and Charlotte, NC. A graduate of Hampton University and Virginia Tech, he is also an ordained minister. His early career included military service, academic teaching, and architectural practice, before co-founding Kelso & Easter Architects.

A dedicated educator, Easter recently retired as Chair of Hampton University’s Department of Architecture, where he led significant program advancements including implementation of the IPAL program.

As the 15th President of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA), he worked nationally and internationally to increase minority representation, including helping form the Association of Black Architects in South Africa, and working to reconcile black and white architects in that country during the transition between apartheid and democratic rule.

Easter has held leadership roles in AIA Virginia, NCARB, and on national accreditation boards. He’s been instrumental in advancing diversity in the profession through partnerships between major firms and HBCUs.

His accolades include elevation to the AIA College of Fellows (2020), the NOMA Council (1994), the AIA Whitney M. Young Jr. Award (2022), and the Marcellus Wright Jr. Award (2024).

Easter will be honored with the Noland Medal on Thursday November 6, 2025, at the Visions for Architecture event in Richmond, VA. Tickets will be available starting September 2, 2025 at www.aiava.org.

VMDO Architects named 2025 recipient of the T. David Fitz-Gibbon Virginia Architecture Firm Award

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AIA Virginia is proud to announce that VMDO Architects will receive the 2025 T. David Fitz-Gibbon Virginia Architecture Firm Award, the highest honor it bestows on a Virginia-based architecture firm. This prestigious recognition celebrates firms that have made outstanding and sustained contributions to the profession, the community, and the quality of the built environment. VMDO is notably the first-ever two-time recipient of this honor, having previously earned it in 2003.

Founded in 1976, VMDO Architects has offices in Charlottesville, Virginia, and Washington, DC. The firm is known for its unwavering commitment to designing community-centered environments that foster human connection and elevate the human experience. VMDO’s work is deeply rooted in the belief that architecture has the power to educate, inspire, and uplift.

VMDO stands apart in its exclusive focus: since its inception nearly 50 years ago, the firm has dedicated its entire practice to educational and community-focused institutions. Its portfolio does not include private residences, commercial developments, or speculative projects—instead, VMDO channels its creativity and expertise into schools, universities, and spaces that support learning and community.

The firm’s designs have received widespread acclaim, earning international and national recognition from the AIA Committee on Architecture for Education (AIA CAE), the Society for College and University Planners (SCUP), and the Association of College Unions International (ACUI). VMDO’s commitment to environmental responsibility is also reflected in its receipt of two AIA Committee on the Environment (COTE) Top Ten awards, among the most prestigious honors in sustainable design.

To celebrate VMDO’s legacy of excellence and its continued impact on the profession and society, the T. David Fitz-Gibbon Award will be presented during Visions for Architecture on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at the Richmond Downtown Marriott. Tickets will be available starting September 2, 2025, at www.aiava.org.

Gina Robinson, AIA, honored with 2025 Virginia Emerging Architect Award

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Gina Robinson, AIA, has been awarded the 2025 Virginia Emerging Architect Award, recognizing her leadership and significant contributions to architecture throughout her career. With over 18 years of experience, she serves as Project Designer and Design Studio Lead at HDR in Arlington, Virginia, specializing in complex public sector projects.

Robinson is known for her commitment to mentorship, inclusivity, and developing emerging talent, having transformed HDR’s internship programs and founded the Student Outreach Taskforce. She emphasizes accessibility and diversity in architecture, supporting applicants often overlooked in traditional selection processes.

Her leadership has earned her internal accolades, including HDR’s Pathfinder Awards, and she has also served in various roles with AIA Virginia, promoting diversity and mentorship within the profession.

Robinson will be honored at the Visions for Architecture event on November 6, 2025, at the Richmond Downtown Marriott. Tickets will be available starting September 2, 2025, at www.aiava.org.

Ava Helm, AIA honored with the Virginia Associates Award

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AIA Virginia has named Ava Helm, AIA, as one of two recipients of the 2025 Virginia Associates Award, recognizing exceptional Associate AIA members for outstanding leadership, creative thinking, and significant contributions to their communities and the architecture profession.

A 2022 graduate of Syracuse University, Helm began her full-time career at KGD Architecture, following years of active involvement in the architecture community through internships and volunteer efforts. She played a pivotal role in revitalizing AIA Northern Virginia’s Young Architects Forum post-pandemic, serving as Vice Chair in 2023, and was a participant in the AIA Virginia Emerging Leaders in Architecture program, where her team designed resiliency hubs that included pet care support in crisis planning.

Helm’s leadership extended to Canstruction events in 2023 and 2024, raising substantial food and funds for the Arlington Food Assistance Center, highlighting how architectural skills can be leveraged for tangible community benefit.

Her dedication to mentorship, thoughtful design, and community engagement embodies the transformative power of architecture and the evolving role of architects in society.

Helm, who is now a licensed architect, will be formally recognized at the Visions for Architecture celebration on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at the Richmond Downtown Marriott. Tickets go on sale September 2, 2025, at www.aiava.org.

Ayesha Shaikh, Assoc. AIA, honored with the Virginia Associates Award

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Ayesha Shaikh, Associate AIA, has been named as one of two recipients of the prestigious 2025 Virginia Associates Award, presented by AIA Virginia. This honor recognizes Associate members for outstanding leadership, creative thinking, and significant contributions to their communities and the architecture profession.

A Project Designer at VIA design, Shaikh brings a global perspective to her work, holding advanced degrees and architectural licensure in India. Her portfolio includes impactful projects like the Half Moone Cruise Terminal and Gosnold II supportive housing, where she has contributed from concept through construction.

Shaikh is also a passionate advocate for mentorship and community engagement. She founded and leads VIA’s Volunteerism Committee, which has gained regional recognition, and played a key role in launching the Spring Shadow Studio program for Hampton University students. Additionally, she has led initiatives through AIA CoVA, including the STEAM-based Pop-Up Park project, and currently serves as Contact Manager for the AIA Virginia Emerging Leaders in Architecture Class of 2025.

Shaikh will be formally recognized at the Visions for Architecture gala on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at the Richmond Downtown Marriott. Tickets will be available starting September 2 at www.aiava.org.

Harry M. Falconer, Jr., FAIA receives 2025 Award for Distinguished Achievement

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The 2025 Award for Distinguished Achievement has been awarded to Harry M. Falconer, Jr., FAIA, recognizing his long-standing contributions to architectural education, licensure reform, and mentorship. As Senior Architect and Vice President for Policy + International Relations at NCARB, Falconer has spent 18 years leading transformative initiatives that removed barriers in the licensure process while maintaining rigor.

Falconer introduced key changes to the AXP eligibility date, updates to direct supervision rules, and elimination of the employment duration requirement. He transformed NCARB’s outreach culture to value listening and collaboration, established the Intern Think Tank, and restructured the Architect Licensing Advisors network. A passionate advocate for future architects, he has spoken at over 160 events across AIA chapters and academic institutions.

Falconer will receive the award during the Visions for Architecture event on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at the Richmond Downtown Marriott. Tickets will be available from September 2, 2025, at www.aiava.org.

Jay Hugo honored with 2025 Award for Distinguished Achievement

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Jay Hugo, AIA, ASLA, ASID, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Award for Distinguished Achievement, recognizing his outstanding contributions to architecture through design, leadership, community service, and social impact.

As the founder of 3North, Hugo has guided the firm from a solo practice to a leading regional design studio, now celebrating its 25th anniversary. He has developed and nurtured a progressive architectural firm and creative business model that inspires purposeful design, employs influential entrepreneurism, and catalyzes societal impact. Known for his visionary leadership and progressive approach, he has received numerous accolades, including local and state AIA design awards as well as a prestigious Institute for Classical Art and Architecture (ICAA) award.

Beyond design, Hugo actively supports the architectural community through public engagement, including speaking at events like the Modern Richmond Tour.

The award will be presented at the Visions for Architecture gala on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at the Richmond Downtown Marriott. Tickets will be available starting September 2 at www.aiava.org.