Young Architects Forum (YAF) Update
Navigating Community Engagement: four ways Young Architects can connect, contribute, and create lasting impact in our local community.
Mentorship plays a vital role in professional development by offering guidance, support, and growth opportunities. It enables mentees to gain valuable knowledge, expand their networks, and advance their careers. Having a mentor means having someone who advocates for you, provides constructive feedback, and supports your growth in personal and professional areas. See More>>
Call for Submissions - Call for Connections article submissions for Q4!! Connection's editorial committee welcomes submissions of articles, editorials, project profiles, interviews/spotlights, and other design content. Contact the editor-in-chief at: nicolejbecker1@gmail.com for additional details, including the Zoom link. Unsolicited articles will not be accepted.
Advocacy in Action: AIA YAF's Advocacy group is proud to present the Advocacy in Action Series - a curated collection of resource documents created by young architects for young architects. Through this initiative, the Young Architects Forum seeks to amplify the collective knowledge of early to mid-career professionals and create accessible tools that support growth, career resilience, and meaningful engagement in the profession. Periodically, new documents will be released, addressing topics that shape the young architect experience, including career development, leadership, self-advocacy and wellness. If you are interested in contributing to this series, please reach out to Tanya Kataria, YAF 2026 Advocacy Director at tanya.kataria@gmail.com
New Associate Member Benefit: AIA Associate Licensure Program
AIA National has launched a pilot program expanding access to PrepARE resources for eligible Associate members, including free PrepARE practice exams and discounted access to PrepARE All Access. PrepARE was developed by AIA East Bay and is now being scaled nationally. Licensed members can also get involved through PrepARE's growing Office Hours Advisor Network, which connects architects with Associates for mentorship on the path to licensure. Details at aia.org/getting-licensed/prepare.
See you at ArchEx
ArchEx 2026 (November 4–6) has a strong slate for emerging professionals this year. If you're a young architect or Associate who hasn't registered, the discount rate runs through October 16. I'll be there all three days and would love to connect with Virginia's YAs.
John McKenna, AIA
Young Architect Representative