CLARISSA SUIKKARI EPPS, NCARB | ARCHITECT
One of the most meaningful ways architects can continue to grow throughout their careers is by investing in the future of the profession. VLK is highly supportive of the idea that professional development isn’t limited to the work that we do on projects, but is exponentially enhanced by sharing our experiences, collaborating with peers, and helping shape the standards that guide the next generation of licensed architects.
In search of this, I recently had the opportunity to participate in a volunteer workshop with the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) as part of a committee that develops items for the Architect Registration Examinations (ARE). The workshop brought together architects from across the United States, each contributing their unique perspective and experience, while working toward a common goal of supporting a rigorous, fair, and relevant licensure process. The architectural licensing exams are unique in that they are intended to test a candidate’s ability to understand and apply their understanding of specific topics at a professional level, as opposed to a textbook memorization format that is typical for standardized tests. One way that NCARB works to maintain the current nature of the professional content in the exams is by engaging practicing architects as subject matter experts to help develop and review exam content.
Throughout the weekend workshop, we discussed how real-world practice informs the knowledge and judgment expected of newly licensed architects and put that into practice together to create exam content. These conversations reinforced the importance of ensuring that the licensure process reflects the realities of architectural practice today, while maintaining the high standards that protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public. At the end of this session, we came out with tangible deliverables for NCARB staff and future volunteers to refine further, but also with numerous intangible takeaways for us as individuals. This was a reminder for me that our profession is strengthened when architects collaborate beyond the walls of their firms, across project types, and even across industries.
Volunteer service like this is an opportunity to give back to the profession that we are all passionate about, while furthering your own professional growth. And if you work for a firm like VLK, they even provide hours for volunteer work! I’m honored to have a role in contributing to the ARE and look forward to continuing this work in support of the future of architecture, but, even more so, I hope to encourage everyone else to seek opportunities to do the same!
