AIA Virginia > Leaders in Architecture & Business Program
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Application deadline has been EXTENDED to Sunday, March 1, 2026!

Download the 2026 LAB Class Application>>

Key Dates
December 5: Applications open
March 1: Applications close
March 9 week: Class participants notified
March 27: First session of LAB 2026

AIA Virginia is excited to enter the second year of Leaders in Architecture & Business (LAB), a program to support experienced architects as they make the mid-career transition from maker to manager, and employee to owner. 

Each year, a cohort of experienced architects will learn essential skills for managing people, time, finances, and firms – while building an enduring community of peer support. Over 9 months, content-experts will provide a comprehensive overview of the business and management practices architects need to manage creative teams and build stronger, more profitable firms. Sessions will be held monthly on Fridays from 9:30a.m. – 5:00p.m.

Are you an architect ready to elevate your career?
The Leaders in Architecture & Business (LAB) program is a comprehensive business management training initiative designed specifically for experienced architects like you, who are transitioning from hands-on production to leadership roles – whether as managers, firm owners, or entrepreneurs.

What is LAB?
LAB is an intensive, cohort-based program that provides you with the essential business acumen and leadership skills needed to thrive in today’s dynamic architectural world. Through expert-led sessions, hands-on workshops, and real-world case studies, you’ll gain practical knowledge and build a powerful network of peers and industry leaders to help you succeed.

Who Should Attend?
LAB is ideal for AIA members who:

  • Have around 10+ years of experience in the field.
  • Currently manage projects and people – or aspire to.
  • Current or future leaders in their firm or organization.
  • Are considering growing, changing, or starting a firm.
  • Want to enhance their leadership capabilities and advance their career.

What You’ll Gain:
LAB will equip you with practical tools and knowledge to:

  • Lead and Manage High-Performing Teams: Master effective communication, delegation, and conflict resolution strategies to build more collaborative and productive teams.
  • Win work & attract the right clients: Learn to identify and attract your ideal client, and communicate your value to win more of the right kind of work.
  • Navigate Firm Finances with Confidence: Understand financial management principles for effective accounting, budgeting, projections, and performance analysis.
  • Optimize Time and Maximize Productivity: Develop effective time management techniques and strategies to prioritize tasks, manage deadlines, and achieve work-life balance.
  • Grow, Change, or Start a Firm: Learn from industry experts how to manage, grow, change, or start a firm through business development strategies, marketing and sales techniques, and operations management best practices that enhance firm performance.
  • Enhance Business Acumen: Develop skills in risk management, contracts, and negotiation.

Program Highlights:
LAB participants meet monthly over 8 months, and learn from a variety of content experts, within and outside the architecture profession. Through a variety of in-person classes, workshops, and case studies, you will gain the practical skills you need to lead. The program offers:

  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Covering essential business management topics tailored for architects.
  • Expert-Led Sessions: Learn from industry leaders, business experts, and seasoned architects.
  • Cohort-Based Learning: Build a strong network of peers through collaborative workshops and group discussions.
  • Practical Application: Apply new skills and knowledge to real-world scenarios through case studies and hands-on activities.
  • Lasting Connections: Forge valuable relationships with peers and industry experts that extend beyond the program.

A Look into the Program
People Management (3 sessions):
1. Design Your Career + Work/Life Balance – March 27 – Charlottesville
2. Effective Communication + Decision Making – April 24 – Richmond
3. Firm Culture + Effective Teams – May 15 – Norfolk

Financial Management (1 session):
1. Financial Management Fundamentals – June 19 – Northern Virginia

Time Management (2 sessions):
1. Time Management for Individuals + Teams – July 17 – Roanoke
2. Project Management Best Practices – August 14 – Northern Virginia

Firm Management (3 sessions):
1. Marketing & Business Development – September 11 – Charlottesville
2. Contracts, Insurance + Risk Management – October 9 – Norfolk
3. Strategic Planning & Leadership Transitions – November 6 – Richmond

Invest in Your Future
More than just business training, LAB is an investment in your future success. By developing your business and leadership skills, you’ll be better equipped to lead teams, manage projects, control your finances, and drive innovation within your firm.

Ready to take your career to the next level?
Applications for the LAB program are now open! Apply here by March 1st. Don’t miss this opportunity to become a true Leader in Architecture & Business!

If you would like to sponsor the LAB program, please contact Jody Cranford.