Got to thinking about next year’s 2018 high school graduates and the future of the Architectural profession. PCH Architects provides annual scholarships to several local high schools for students interested in pursuing a career in Architecture.

My partner asked that I start to think about the scholarships for this upcoming year. How time flies? I can recall just giving a speech at M.L. King High School prior to presenting a scholarship to a praiseworthy high school senior planning to major in Engineering.

Now, I have nothing against Engineers. We need more of them. But, where are our aspiring, next generation of architects? Unfortunately, the profession is still seeing the drought of talent that was wrought by the Great Recession. Maybe the blame cannot be placed entirely on the economy however.

Even in my generation, I heard the same excuses. “It’s too hard!” “Why should I get my architectural license?” “I got my Bachelors or Masters of Architectural degree.” “I’m too old or too busy.” All the myriad of challenges that architectural candidates have to contend with.

I feel our profession is slowly depleting. The passion, the drive, may be a little lacking. Maybe it’s the current Public School curriculum that puts enormous emphasis on science, mathematics and technology, leaving behind art and creativity. I am not saying that is wrong or bad. I’m just trying to understand and maybe create a discussion on how we can help carry, pass along, and/or keep the torch lit for our next generation of architects.

If you have put in the time and hard-earned money to go to college, then why not complete your journey to licensure? Maybe the process is quite trying. The hours that one has to document and get approval for seems tedious. The testing is definitely taxing. Nonetheless, as the People of Troy Shout, “Fight On!” Don’t give up or make excuses. If you say you want to, or say you would like to: Just Do It. Sounds like a commercial?

I hope, we can continue to encourage our fellow designers, drafters, CAD technicians, project coordinators, job captains, etc. to make the leap and become a licensed architect in the states where each resides.

It all comes down to you. No one will be more responsible for you than you. There should be no regrets. It’s a personal fight and struggle to please and satisfy only you.

I wish you great success as you leap along the fiery path that leads to becoming a licensed architect. Cheers to those who recently passed their last AREs or the California Supplemental Exam! Job well done!