Ascend Mentorship Program

Program Outcomes

1. Guidance

• Awareness and identification of culture of architecture profession. Training on professional etiquette and expectations. Negotiate the adjustments from academia to profession.

2. Support, problem solving

• Preparing for and dealing with challenges in the working environment. Problem solving.

3. Career Planning, Goal Setting

• Understanding the different career paths in architecture. Setting goals in a career and developing a pathway to achieve those goals.

Attendance

This program’s success is directly dependent on the consistent attendance by the participants and therefore attendance is mandatory. Each member will be allowed one excused absence. The agreement form must be filled out and signed by the applicant. The signature of a firm principal is also required showing the commitment of the firm to the applicant’s full participation.

2026 Schedule

All mentors/mentees will meet the last Thursdays of the month from February to June. Individual pairs of mentors/mentees are encouraged to meet between group sessions once a month for further discussion.

• Ascend Kickoff meeting: February 26.
  • Introductions and icebreakers.
• Session 2: March 26. 
  • Design Your Life exercises.
• Session 3: April 30.
  • Discussion on Atomic Habits and skills development.
• Session 4: May 28.
  • Leadership skills from Leadership on the Line.
• Session 5: June 25. 
  • Range and the importance of having a broad skill set.
• Closing session/Ascend Reunion: August 27
• 1 Mentorship meet-up between each session

*session topics subject to change*

Program Requirements

• Emerging professional and AIA member 
• Currently working in the architecture field
• Between 1 – 5 years of professional office experience
• Unlicensed
• Started AXP process Preferred
• Recent Graduates can apply

Program Overview

The Ascend Program will empower people to see the future of their career in architecture, and develop a path for their next 5-10 years in the profession.

This program has been developed to fit as the first step in a series of established AIA Colorado opportunities to enrich careers and provide opportunities for leadership. Graduates of the Ascend program are encouraged to continue their professional development through these other programs:

1. The Ascend Program
2. Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program
3. Volunteering
   • Local advisory councils
   • Committee work
   • Knowledge communities
   • Board membership
4. College of Fellows

Mentor Selection

• Licensed Architects
• Currently working in the architecture field
• Between 10 – 15 years of professional office experience
• Hold a leadership or Senior position
• Engaged on active projects