Author: Jon Bell

In this Newsletter:

• Architects Day at the Capitol
• AIA College of Fellows Nominating Committee
• One Good Idea
• Renewing your AIA membership
• Allied Memberships are open through January 31
• Jan 30: Firm Fridays: SAR+
• Feb 17: North Section happy hour
• Premier Partner spotlight: Humboldt Sawmill and Allweather Wood

Members enjoyed welcoming new AIA EVP/CEO Carole Wedge, FAIA to Colorado. We’re honored to be her first chapter visit as CEO and enjoyed hearing from her. Her passion for the AIA is palpable and we’re grateful for her leadership in the years to come! Thank you to Hord Coplan Macht for hosting us.

Looking for Members to join 2026 Architects Day at the Capitol

A key part of AIA Colorado’s advocacy efforts is to build relationships with state legislators and discuss issues important to the architecture profession. Our 2026 day at the capitol will be Friday morning, January 30th, and we’re looking for members who can help us share our perspective. Please note that the date is tentative, as legislative schedules may shift. If you’re interested in attending, please contact advocacy engagement director Nikolaus Remus, AIA, so we can discuss who your state legislators are and try to set up a meeting with them, and which of our legislator meetings can best leverage your expertise.

AIA College of Fellows Nominating Committee

Election to the AIA College of Fellows represents the highest individual honor bestowed by the Institute, recognizing architects whose careers demonstrate sustained excellence and a broad impact on the profession. Since 1886, 110 AIA Colorado members have been elevated to Fellowship, including two new Fellows named last year. For architects whose work, leadership, and service reflect this level of achievement, Fellowship is a meaningful next step. If you are interested in exploring the Fellowship process, the AIA Colorado College of Fellows Nominating Committee would welcome a conversation. Learn more here and contact Phil Gerou, FAIA, Chair of the Fellows Nominating Committee, by February 18th.

One Good Idea

Throughout 2025, members contributed their One Good Idea to make architectural practice a little easier, together. The campaign now lives on the AIA Colorado website, where members can browse past submissions and contribute ideas of their own. Whether big or small, your idea could help another architect improve their day-to-day work. See ideas here.

Renewing Your AIA Membership

Continue your connection to the world’s largest and most influential community of architecture professionals by renewing your AIA membership for 2026. All memberships are managed through the AIA National office, and the renewal process begins at renew.aia.org. If you have questions or need assistance with your renewal, contact AIA Member Support at (800) 242 3837, option 2, or email membersupport@aia.org.

Allied Memberships are open through January 31

Do you know a company or professional who would benefit from becoming an Allied member of AIA Colorado? Now is the perfect time to spread the word. 

Allied membership connects businesses and professionals to a statewide network of architects and industry leaders, preferred pricing for AIA Colorado events, reduced rates on the job board, and access to timely industry insights and resources. This membership is ideal for those working in architecture-related fields who do not hold an architecture license or degree, including engineers, planners, landscape architects, consultants, manufacturers, and other allied professionals. Explore the full list of member benefits and sign up or renew today.

Firm Fridays: SAR+

Firm Fridays offer a behind-the-scenes look at architecture firms across Colorado and provide members with a chance to connect, learn, and build community in a relaxed setting.

Join us on Friday, January 30, from 4:30 – 6pm, for an informal open house and happy hour as SAR+ opens their doors to AIA Colorado members. You’ll have the opportunity to tour SAR+’s office, learn about the projects they are currently working on, and hear directly from the team about their design philosophy and creative process. You will also have the chance to meet Andy Rockmore, AIA, 2026 AIA Colorado President, and connect with fellow members while enjoying drinks and light refreshments. AIA members can RSVP here.

Feb 17 • North Section happy hour

Tuesday, February 17th, from 5 – 7pm, celebrate Valentine’s Day the AIA way! Join AIA Colorado North members and meet in Fort Collins for a post-Valentine’s happy hour centered on For the Love of Architecture, with good company, thoughtful conversation, and a shared appreciation for design. Join members at Social in Fort Collins and RSVP here.

2025 AIA Colorado Architect of the Year Kevin Nguyen, AIA, and his outsized influence on Denver’s culinary landscape. The story offers a thoughtful look at his design philosophy, career path, and community impact. Read it here.

Photo by Hyoung Chang/The Denver Post

Congratulations to AIA member firm Davis Partnership Architects and AIA Colorado Premier Partner KL&A for winning the IDEAS Award for Excellence in Sustainable Design and Construction for their project City of Boulder Fire Rescue, Station #3.

Congratulations to AIA Colorado members on their recent promotions at Rowland+Broughton!

• Associate: Greg Ingalls, AIA
• Senior Project Manager: Soren Phibbs, AIA
• Project Manager: Caitlin Zemljak, AIA
• Project Manger: Colton Todd, AIA
• Project Architect: Eliot Alpert, AIA
• Project Architect: James Jones, AIA
• Project Architect: Liz Whitacre, AIA

CCY’s Victorian Music Box project was recently featured in Denver Life Magazine.

Have news to share? If you or your firm have been featured in the media, published in a design outlet, received an award, or announced a major promotion, email AIA Colorado’s Communications Director Jon Bell.

The AIA Colorado Job Board is updated daily. Job hunting? Take a peek to discover new opportunities. Hiring? Post your single job for 30 days. Connect with qualified candidates. Here are a few featured job openings:

• Project Manager at MOA Architecture
• Architectural Associate at Foothills Architects, Ltd.
• Architect / Architectural Designer at MA Studios

Safety Assessment Program (SAP)

AIA Connecticut is hosting a virtual, two-day Safety Assessment Training (SAP) on February 4 and 5. This program is managed by Cal OES in cooperation with professional organizations, including AIA. SAP is the training standard for the AIA Disaster Assistance Program, which provides leadership, advocacy, and training for architects who wish to volunteer their professional skills during times of crisis.

The registration deadline is Friday, January 23 to ensure all training materials are delivered to attendees in advance. You can find more details and register here

AIA Strategic Plan

Guided by a Strategic Planning Committee, Co-chaired by AIA Colorado’s CEO Mike Waldinger, Hon. AIA, the American Institute of Architects will deliver profound change through its strategic plan, inspiring and empowering the architecture community to improve society and transform the world. Learn more at AIA.

7 Questions with AIA’s new EVP/CEO

Read an interview with Carole Wedge, FAIA, to learn about her excitement for her new role, her favorite projects, and more, here.

Get to know 2026 AIA President Illya Azaroff, FAIA

In this interview, Azaroff discusses his formative experiences, what he envisions for AIA members, and why “leadership can’t wait.” Read at AIA.

January 2026 Consensus Construction Forecast

In 2026, nonresidential construction faces slowing growth, widening sector imbalances, and continued economic uncertainty. Read at AIA.

ABI December 2025: Architecture firm billings remain soft to end the year

Most firms have seen some stalled, delayed, or canceled projects over the last six months. Read more at AIA.

We’re proud to highlight one of AIA Colorado’s Premier Partners, Humboldt Sawmill and Allweather Wood, and look forward to their ongoing support and involvement serving Colorado’s architecture community. 

Humboldt Sawmill Company, LLC manufactures redwood and Douglas-fir dimensional lumber, timbers, and uppers at the company’s sawmill in Scotia, California. Logs are sourced from company-owned timberlands totaling nearly 450,000 acres, and all products are certified to the standards of the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC® C013133). Products are available mill direct, as well as through company-owned distribution centers, servicing home improvement retailers and local lumberyards, including locations throughout Colorado.

Allweather Wood, LLC is the largest waterborne preservative treated lumber and plywood manufacturer in the western United States with six manufacturing facilities, including a facility in Loveland, Colorado. Treated products include borate, copper, and fire retardants available in Douglas-fir, Hem fir, and Southern Yellow Pine. 

View AIA Continuing Education Courses offered by Humboldt Sawmill

Looking for additional resources?

Allied Members are better known as trusted industry colleagues and members of AIA Colorado—they’re the interior designers, the kitchen specialists, the engineering partners, and more who make up our AEC community in Colorado.
View AIA Colorado’s Allied Member Directory.

Helpful Links:

• Contact AIA Colorado Staff
• RSVP to Events
• AIA Colorado News and Articles

AIA Colorado Firm Directory

• Add your firm to the directory here.

Save the Dates:

• 2026 Awards Celebration: 
  • Mile High Station, Denver, CO
  • Thursday, September 17
• 2026 Practice + Design Conference: 
  • Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO
  • November 11 – 13

Calls for Proposals:

• AEF Traveling Scholarships
  • Submission window closes March 31
• Design + Honor Awards
  • Submission window closes June 26
• Conference Call for Presentations
  • Submission window closes July 31

In this Newsletter:

• 2026 AIA Colorado Board of Directors
• 2026 Christopher Kelly Leadership Development Program Scholars
• AIA College of Fellows Nominating Committee
• Renewing your AIA membership
• Allied Memberships are open through January 31
• What’s new for 2026
• Jan 7: AIA member reception with AIA CEO Carole Wedge, FAIA
• Jan 30: Firm Fridays: SAR+
• Premier Partner spotlight: Humboldt Sawmill and Allweather Wood

Introducing the 2026 AIA Colorado Board of Directors

A new year brings new leadership! We welcome the 2026 AIA Colorado Board of Directors, a team committed to elevating the architecture profession to design a more equitable, sustainable, and beautiful Colorado.

This year’s Board of Directors will enjoy the valuable contributions of several new members:

• Secretary: Kari Lawson, AIA, HDR
• North Director: Chris Aronson, AIA, Vaught Frye Larson Aronson Architects
• West Director: Will Otte, AIA, Rowland Broughton Architecture and Interior Design
• Associate Director: Jarrett Hardy, Assoc. AIA, HKS, Inc.

Additionally, we are pleased to share that Lauren Falcon, AIA, Stantec, has been elected to the Young Architects Forum.

Meet the Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program class of 2026

The program aims to train the next generation of leaders in architecture through a yearlong series of

sessions focusing on everything from community leadership to firm management.

Congratulations to the 2026 scholars:

• Alexandra Addesso, Assoc. AIA, Populous
• Andrea Arias, Assoc. AIA, Fentress Studios
• Alexander Blum, AIA, RB+B Architects
• Leo Borasio, Assoc. AIA, OZ Architectures
• Ben Charpentier, AIA, AMD Architects
• Robert Cleary, Assoc. AIA, HKS
• Fatemeh Dashti, Assoc. AIA, Fentress Studios
• Gina Frenette, Assoc. AIA, Davis Partnership Architects
• Mason Huffaker, AIA, SAR+
• Julia Lecy, AIA, DLR Group
• Geoffrey Mittler, AIA, Stantec
• Shannon Newberry, Assoc. AIA, Dynia Architects
• Kendra Oester, AIA, Land+Shelter Architecture Studio
• Kelly Ryan, AIA, Cuningham
• Katharine Schmachtenberger, AIA, Davis Partnership Architects
• Mo Zaina, Assoc. AIA, HNTB

Welcome, new volunteers!

From Committees to Knowledge Communities and appointed roles, AIA Colorado is proud to welcome 125 volunteers from across Colorado who will help advance the architecture profession this year. We’re also looking forward to sharing the work they undertake throughout the year, so stay tuned to see periodic committee recaps, articles, events, and webinars outlining the work and discussions that will be taking place. Join us in welcoming and getting to know our 2026 Board of Directors, representatives, and volunteers! Meet the teams here.

Looking for Members to join 2026 Architects Day at the Capitol

A key part of AIA Colorado’s advocacy efforts is to build relationships with state legislators and discuss issues important to the architecture profession. Our 2026 day at the capitol will be Friday morning, January 30th, and we’re looking for members who can help us share our perspective. Please note that the date is tentative, as legislative schedules may shift. If you’re interested in attending, please contact advocacy engagement director Nikolaus Remus, AIA, so we can discuss who your state legislators are and try to set up a meeting with them, and which of our legislator meetings can best leverage your expertise.

AIA College of Fellows Nominating Committee

Election to the AIA College of Fellows represents the highest individual honor bestowed by the Institute, recognizing architects whose careers demonstrate sustained excellence and a broad impact on the profession. Since 1886, 110 AIA Colorado members have been elevated to Fellowship, including two new Fellows named last year. For architects whose work, leadership, and service reflect this level of achievement, Fellowship is a meaningful next step. If you are interested in exploring the Fellowship process, the AIA Colorado College of Fellows Nominating Committee would welcome a conversation. Learn more here and contact Phil Gerou, FAIA, Chair of the Fellows Nominating Committee, by February 18th.

Renewing Your AIA Membership

Continue your connection to the world’s largest and most influential community of architecture professionals by renewing your AIA membership for 2026. All memberships are managed through the AIA National office, and the renewal process begins at renew.aia.org. If you have questions or need assistance with your renewal, contact AIA Member Support at (800) 242 3837, option 2, or email membersupport@aia.org.

Allied Memberships are open through January 31

Do you know a company or professional who would benefit from becoming an Allied member of AIA Colorado? Now is the perfect time to spread the word. 

Allied membership connects businesses and professionals to a statewide network of architects and industry leaders, preferred pricing for AIA Colorado events, reduced rates on the job board, and access to timely industry insights and resources. This membership is ideal for those working in architecture-related fields who do not hold an architecture license or degree, including engineers, planners, landscape architects, consultants, manufacturers, and other allied professionals. Explore the full list of member benefits and sign up or renew today.

Calls are open earlier than ever

New this year, we’re opening multiple submission portals at the start of the year—giving members more time and flexibility to engage with opportunities that showcase your work, advance your career, and grow your business.

• AEF Traveling Scholarships: Submission window open; closes March 31
• Design + Honor Awards: Submission window open; closes June 26
• Conference Call for Presentations: Submission window open; closes July 31

A new event ticketing platform

In 2025, AIA Colorado staff and volunteers organized more than 70 events! To better support that level and volume of programming, we’ve transitioned to a new ticketing platform designed to improve the member experience while reducing staff burden. The New platform is Humanitix, a Denver-based company that is more responsive to our needs and operates with a business model donating 100% of profits from booking fees to charity.

A few notes regarding events:

• Events remain a member benefit. We ask for member numbers during the RSVP process to ensure that members are first in line.
• Events that provide education credit will always be listed with a $25 ticket fee. Members can waive the ticket fees by entering their member number in the discount code field during checkout. 
• AIA Colorado Allied Members are members and will use their registered email address to bypass fees.

Event access & Zoom link updates

To improve security and flexibility, Zoom links for online events will now be emailed to registrants the day before the event. This helps keep meeting links secure and allows staff or volunteer leaders to make last-minute adjustments with minimal confusion.

Helpful tips:

• Use an email address you check regularly when registering
• Keep your member number handy when submitting an RSVP
• Watch your inbox for event updates or changes

Updated guidance on AI use

To support meaningful engagement and clear accountability, members may not use an AI or automated agent during committee meetings or events. Members may not send an AI agent in their place either. Participation is expected to be human and active. Additionally, AIA Colorado will use snapsight, when possible, to capture events for editorial and communications purposes.

New communications policy

With so much happening each year, AIA Colorado has adopted a Communications Policyto ensure we are prioritizing and delivering relevant AIA Colorado news to our members. While we receive many requests to share information from outside organizations and companies, we are intentional and selective about what we distribute on behalf of others.

LegalLine: a new member resource

AIA Colorado will be enlisting LegaLine, an informational resource designed especially for small firms and sole practitioners who have legal questions related to architectural practice.
LegaLine provides practical, up-to-date insight on topics such as contracts, risk management, dispute mitigation, and determining when it’s time to engage an attorney. While it does not provide legal advice, it offers valuable guidance to help members make informed decisions.

• Available exclusively to AIA members
• Especially useful for firms not yet ready to retain legal counsel

To learn more LegalLine, please contact membership@aiacolorado.org.

Save the dates:

• January 31 • Architects Day at the Capitol
• March 31 • Architectural Education Foundation travel scholarships window closes
• June 26 • Design + Honor Awards submission window closes
• July 31 • Conference presentation submission window closes
• September 17 • Awards Celebration Event, Mile High Station, Denver
• November 11 – 13 • Practice and Design Conference, Keystone Conference Center
• December • Holiday Happy Hours in Denver, North, South, and West Sections

Kick Off 2026 with AIA CEO Carole Wedge, FAIA

Today, January 7th, from 4:45–6:15 pm, start the new year by welcoming AIA’s new Executive Vice President and CEO, Carole Wedge, FAIA, to Colorado. AIA Colorado is honored to host Carole for her first chapter visit as CEO during her time in Denver, and we invite members to join us for a relaxed reception and conversation. This event is for AIA members and 2026 Allied Members and RSVP required in advance. More information and RSVP here.

Firm Fridays: SAR+

Firm Fridays offer a behind-the-scenes look at architecture firms across Colorado and provide members with a chance to connect, learn, and build community in a relaxed setting. Join us on Friday, January 30, from 4:30 – 6pm, for an informal open house and happy hour as SAR+ opens their doors to AIA Colorado members.

You’ll have the opportunity to tour SAR+’s office, learn about the projects they are currently working on, and hear directly from the team about their design philosophy and creative process. You will also have the chance to meet Andy Rockmore, AIA, 2026 AIA Colorado President, and connect with fellow members while enjoying drinks and light refreshments. AIA members can RSVP here.

The AIA Colorado Job Board is updated daily. Job hunting? Take a peek to discover new opportunities. Hiring? Post your single job for 30 days. Connect with qualified candidates. Here are a few featured job openings:

• Architectural Associate (1-3yrs) at BG Architecture and Design
• Project Architect / Senior Architectural Staff at Godden Sudik Architects
• Project Manager at Dynia Architects

We’re proud to highlight one of AIA Colorado’s Premier Partners, Humboldt Sawmill and Allweather Wood, and look forward to their ongoing support and involvement serving Colorado’s architecture community. 

Humboldt Sawmill Company, LLC manufactures redwood and Douglas-fir dimensional lumber, timbers, and uppers at the company’s sawmill in Scotia, California. Logs are sourced from company-owned timberlands totaling nearly 450,000 acres, and all products are certified to the standards of the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC® C013133). Products are available mill direct, as well as through company-owned distribution centers, servicing home improvement retailers and local lumberyards, including locations throughout Colorado.

Allweather Wood, LLC is the largest waterborne preservative treated lumber and plywood manufacturer in the western United States with six manufacturing facilities, including a facility in Loveland, Colorado. Treated products include borate, copper, and fire retardants available in Douglas-fir, Hem fir, and Southern Yellow Pine. 

View AIA Continuing Education Courses offered by Humboldt Sawmill

Looking for additional resources?

Allied Members are better known as trusted industry colleagues and members of AIA Colorado—they’re the interior designers, the kitchen specialists, the engineering partners, and more who make up our AEC community in Colorado.
View AIA Colorado’s Allied Member Directory.

Helpful Links:

• Contact AIA Colorado Staff
• RSVP to Events
• AIA Colorado News and Articles

AIA Colorado Firm Directory

• Add your firm to the directory here.

Save the Dates:

• 2026 Awards Celebration: 
  • Mile High Station, Denver, CO
  • Thursday, September 17
• 2026 Practice + Design Conference: 
  • Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO
  • November 11 – 13

Calls for Proposals:

• AEF Traveling Scholarships
  • Submission window closes March 31
• Design + Honor Awards
  • Submission window closes June 26
• Conference Call for Presentations
  • Submission window closes July 31

In this Newsletter:

• Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
• Is your record up to date?
• Lock in 2026 sponsorships
• Dec 17 West Section Holiday Happy Hour in Carbondale
• Dec 18 Cancel Culture in Climate COTE discussion
• Dec 18 South Section Holiday Happy Hour in Colorado Springs
• Member News
• Premier Partner spotlight: KL&A

Colorado architects win 2nd and 3rd Prizes in the Denver Affordable Housing Challenge

AIA Colorado, the City of Denver, and Buildner have announced the 10 winning entries in Denver’s Affordable Housing Challenge. AIA Colorado is pleased to add that member architects took 2nd Place + Sustainability Recognition and 3rd Place!

The competition attracted 148 qualified submissions from around the world. Entrants explored how affordability, sustainability, and design excellence can be combined to create innovative housing solutions tailored to Denver’s local context. Submissions were reviewed by a jury of globally renowned architects, City of Denver leaders, and affordable housing developers.

“This reveal shows what is possible when creativity, community, and commitment come together,” said Denver Mayor Mike Johnston. “The ideas showcased in this challenge push us to think boldly about how Denver can deliver affordable, sustainable housing solutions for every resident.”

The top 10 features submissions from Australia, Denver, Vietnam, Finland, Chicago, New York, San Francisco, and South Korea. All winning projects, jury comments, and commentary can be viewed at Buildner.

More information from the announcement event and the winners is available on AIA Colorado’s website here. All event photos available to view and download here.

Read about the competition in the Denver Business Journal here.

2nd Place + Sustainability Recognition: re FRAME

Having met during orientation for the Master of Architecture program at the University of Colorado Denver just a few years ago, Meghan Kress, Assoc. AIA, Maggie Krantz, Assoc. AIA, and Sean Pike won big with their first project together. Get to know them and their winning entry here.

3rd Place: Alley Town La Alma

Denver’s Radix Design focused on a neighborhood they know well, La Alma, and leaned on the firm’s focus of social benefit, sustainability, and connection to place in developing their winning submission. Get to know Ozi Friedrich, AIA, Alex St. Angelo, AIA, and Archer Squire and their winning entry here.

2025 Legislator Awards

Recently, the AIA Colorado Government Affairs Committee met at The Alliance Center to recognize Rep. Andrew Boesenecker as the recipient of our 2025 Legislator of the Year award and Senator Matt Ball as 2025’s Outstanding New Legislator.

AIA Colorado also recognized Rep. Chad Clifford, Rep. Cecelia Espenoza, Rep. Ryan Gonzalez, and Rep. Michael Carter as 2025’s Legislative Champions. Rep. Shannon Bird, our 2022 Legislator of the Year was also recognized for her continued work.

Learn more about these awards and see photos from the event here.

Is your AIA record up to date?

If you haven’t do so lately, this is your reminder to check your transcript to ensure it meets AIA and State requirements for continuing education. This is a license renewal year and as part of that process, you’ll need to confirm that you’ve completed the continuing education requirements:

• 12 HSW credits for 2024
• 12 HSW credits for 2025 (to be completed and reported by December 31, 2025)

For specific Colorado-related CE requirement questions, visit DORA here. If you need to take additional courses, find them at AIAU.

Secure you 2026 sponsorship opportunities

We’re opening early access to 2026 sponsorships for anyone ready to plan ahead. By purchasing before the end of the year, you can use remaining 2025 budget dollars, lock in discounted rates, and guarantee early access to next year’s most in-demand opportunities! AIA Colorado has a range of opportunities for you to engage throughout the year as a Premier Partner, and two signature events in the Fall. Learn more here.

Denver Members had a great time bowling at the Denver Athletic Club on Monday night!

North Members enjoyed connecting in Longmont last night!

Dec 17 • West Section Holiday Happy Hour

Wednesday, December 17th, from 5:30 – 7:30pm, join the AIA Colorado West Section members for a Holiday Happy Hour Party at Carbondale Clay Center (135 Main St. Carbondale, CO 81623). RSVP here.

Dec 18 • Cancel Culture in Climate

Thursday, December 18th, at 8am, join AIA Colorado’s Committee on the Environmentto meet Jenny Morgan and discuss her book Cancel Culture in Climate. This event is open to AIA members and RSVP is here.

Dec 18 • South Section Holiday Happy Hour

Thursday, December 18th, from 5:30 – 7pm, join the AIA Colorado South Section members for a Holiday Happy Hour Party at COATI, in Colorado Springs (

514 S Tejon St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903). RSVP here.

AIA Colorado members in new Modern In Denver issue 

The cover story features a home neighboring Roxborough State Park by Matt Davis, AIA, Davis Urban. Read about it here. 

Bob White, AIA, Dynia Architects, reimagined a mountain home in Breckenridge. See it here. 

2025 Award of Excellence project, LAWS Whiskey House, by BOSS architects, is featured in the article Dine-In Design here.

AIA Colorado CEO Mike Waldinger, Hon. AIA, talks with Modern In Denver founder and publisher William Logan about what motivated him to start the magazine, the ways it has changed how he sees design, their recent 2025 AIA Colorado Impact Award, and how the media can shape the look, feel, and meaning of our built environment. Read the interview here.

Curtis Fentress, FAIA, shared about his collaboration with the late Jim Bradburn as the two envisioned the structure that became the Great Hall at Denver International Airport in “Two men, a bar and a sketch: How the DIA ‘tent’ came to be” here.

The AIA Colorado Job Board is updated daily. Job hunting? Take a peek to discover new opportunities. Hiring? Post your single job for 30 days. Connect with qualified candidates. Here are a few featured job openings:

• Job Captain at CCY Architects
• Project Architect/Job Captain at Carvell Architects, Inc.
• Project Designer / Project Architect / Project Manager at Lightwell Architecture

The Architect’s Structural Playbook: From Code to Construction

Thursday, December 18, at 11am, join AIA Colorado Premier Partner American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) for a webinar earning 1 AIA LU|HSW. This course equips design professionals with the insight to make strategic structural decisions early in the design process, saving time, reducing costs, and streamlining coordination when designing with structural steel. Learn more and register here.

We’re proud to highlight one of AIA Colorado’s Premier Partners, KL&A, and look forward to their ongoing support and involvement serving Colorado’s architecture community. 

KL&A is a firm built around the idea that structural engineers should return to a master builder role by taking ownership of structural systems. A collaborative approach and project centric behaviors are our differentiators, facilitating a more engaging design and construction process. Their philosophy of personal responsibility has generated a corporate culture of problem solving and innovation. They are engineers first and foremost, which they leverage on their steel detailing and steel construction projects. hey also take great pride in sustainability efforts, utilizing mass timber to minimize embodied carbon in our structures, and providing Life Cycle Assessments on our committed projects.

Visit KL&A’s website

Looking for additional resources?

Allied Members are better known as trusted industry colleagues and members of AIA Colorado—they’re the interior designers, the kitchen specialists, the engineering partners, and more who make up our AEC community in Colorado.
View AIA Colorado’s Allied Member Directory.

Helpful Links:

• Contact AIA Colorado Staff
• AIA Colorado Calendar
• AIA Colorado News and Articles

AIA Colorado Firm Directory

• Add your firm to the directory here.

Save the Dates:

• 2026 Awards Celebration: 
  • Mile High Station, Denver, CO
  • Thursday, September 17
• 2026 Practice + Design Conference: 
  • Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO
  • November 11 – 13

In this Newsletter:

• Denver Affordable Housing Challenge Winners Announcement
• Practice + Design Conference attendance
• Is your record up to date?
• 2026 sponsorships now open
• Dec 9 West Virtual Connect
• Dec 10 Denver Affordable Housing Challenge Winners Announcement
• Dec 10 Business of Architecture: Owner Burnout
• Dec 15 Denver Section Holiday Happy Hour
• Dec 16 North Section Holiday Happy Hour in Longmont
• Dec 17 West Section Holiday Happy Hour in Carbondale
• Dec 18 Cancel Culture in Climate COTE discussion
• Dec 18 South Section Holiday Happy Hour in Colorado Springs
• Premier Partner spotlight: KL&A

Mayor Johnston, the City of Denver, and AIA Colorado to Reveal Winners of International Affordable Housing Design Challenge on December 10

Colorado architects and City of Denver representatives will gather on Wednesday, December 10th at 5pm for the public reveal of the winning entries in Denver’s Affordable Housing Challenge. Media representatives are invited to attend and cover the event, which takes place at the Denver Arts Complex, 1245 Champa Street. 

The competition, organized by the City of Denver, AIA Colorado, and Buildner attracted hundreds of submissions from around the world. Entrants explored how affordability, sustainability, and design excellence can be combined to create innovative housing solutions tailored to Denver’s local context. Submissions were reviewed by a jury of architects, City of Denver leaders, Council members, and affordable housing developers. 

Architects are welcome to invite their developer and media friends! All attendees must register in advance and no walk ups will be allowed entrance. Read more here and RSVP for the announcement event here.

2025 Practice + Design Conference 

If you missed this year’s Practice + Design Conference and its corresponding coverage, catch up with session recaps and key takeaways from the keynote presentations and pick up insights from breakout sessions and the tech connect event. Also, view and download photos from the conference, and feel free to share them! When you do, please credit AIA Colorado and Amp Media. View conference coverage here. 

All attendance for the conference has been reported and available on your transcript. If you have any questions, please contact Rylee Younger.

Congrats to Mary Fiore, AIA, for winning the $100 gift card from a random draw of conference attendees who completed the attendee survey!

Is your AIA record up to date?

If you haven’t do so lately, this is your reminder to check your transcript to ensure it meets AIA and State requirements for continuing education. This is a license renewal year and as part of that process, you’ll need to confirm that you’ve completed the continuing education requirements:

• 12 HSW credits for 2024
• 12 HSW credits for 2025 (to be completed and reported by December 31, 2025)

For specific Colorado-related CE requirement questions, visit DORA here. If you need to take additional courses, find them at AIAU.

Secure you 2026 sponsorship opportunities

We’re opening early access to 2026 sponsorships for anyone ready to plan ahead. By purchasing before the end of the year, you can use remaining 2025 budget dollars, lock in discounted rates, and guarantee early access to next year’s most in-demand opportunities! AIA Colorado has a range of opportunities for you to engage throughout the year as a Premier Partner, and two signature events in the Fall. Learn more here.

Dec 9 • West Virtual Connect

Tuesday, December 9th, from Noon – 1pm, connect with Western Slope AIA members for a discussion recapping the past and upcoming government affairs work of AIA Colorado with a focus on the impacts in Western Colorado. There will be a brief presentation to get the conversation started, following by Q+A and discussion. More info and RSVP here.

Dec 10 • Denver’s Affordable Housing Challenge: Celebration of the Winning Projects

Wednesday, December 10th, at 5pm, join leaders in architecture, development, the City of Denver, and Buildner for the unveiling of the Denver Affordable Housing Challenge winning projects. We will host the celebration at the Denver Arts Complex to reveal the top submissions from an international ideas competition focused on design excellence, sustainability, and affordability. Light refreshments will be provided and capacity is limited, so please RSVP. All attendees must register in advance! More info and RSVP here.

Dec 10 • Business of Architecture: Owner Burnout

Wednesday, December 10th, networking from 5:30 – 6pm, roundtable discussion from 6 – 7:30pm. Join in person or online for a discussion about owner burnout. Topics to be discussed include: 

• What is owner burnout and what does it look like?
• How does an owner get to burnout stage?
• Dealing with stress
• How to release/delegate responsibilities
• Taking a sabbatical

This is a hybrid event with hosted locations in Denver and Carbondale, as well as online via Teams. RSVP here.

Dec 15 • AIA Colorado Denver Section + IMEG Holiday “Roll with Us” Bowling Party

Monday, December 15th, from 6 – 8pm, join AIA Colorado Denver Section members and AIA Colorado’s Premier Partner IMEG for a Holiday “Roll with Us” Bowling Party at the Denver Athletic Club. This holiday season, we’re trading blueprints for bowling pins and specs for strikes! Join us as we celebrate a year of building great things together—no hard hats required (but festive sweaters are encouraged!). More info and RSVP here.

Dec 16 • North Section Holiday Happy Hour

Tuesday, December 16th, from 5:30 – 7:30pm, join the AIA Colorado North Section members for a Holiday Happy Hour Party at Teocalli Cocina in Longmont (460 Main St, Longmont, CO 80501). Festive holiday sweaters encouraged! RSVP here.

Dec 17 • West Section Holiday Happy Hour

Wednesday, December 17th, from 5:30 – 7:30pm, join the AIA Colorado West Section members for a Holiday Happy Hour Party at Carbondale Clay Center (135 Main St. Carbondale, CO 81623). RSVP here.

Dec 18 • Cancel Culture in Climate

Thursday, December 18th, at 8am, join AIA Colorado’s Committee on the Environmentto meet Jenny Morgan and discuss her book Cancel Culture in Climate. This event is open to AIA members and RSVP is here.

Dec 18 • South Section Holiday Happy Hour

Thursday, December 18th, from 5:30 – 7pm, join the AIA Colorado South Section members for a Holiday Happy Hour Party at COATI, in Colorado Springs (

514 S Tejon St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903). RSVP here.

The AIA Colorado Job Board is updated daily. Job hunting? Take a peek to discover new opportunities. Hiring? Post your single job for 30 days. Connect with qualified candidates. Here are a few featured job openings:

• Project Architect/Job Captain at Carvell Architects, Inc.
• Architectural Senior Project Coordinator at The Beck Group
• Architect at Vetegrity

We’re proud to highlight one of AIA Colorado’s Premier Partners, KL&A, and look forward to their ongoing support and involvement serving Colorado’s architecture community. 

KL&A is a firm built around the idea that structural engineers should return to a master builder role by taking ownership of structural systems. A collaborative approach and project centric behaviors are our differentiators, facilitating a more engaging design and construction process. Their philosophy of personal responsibility has generated a corporate culture of problem solving and innovation. They are engineers first and foremost, which they leverage on their steel detailing and steel construction projects. hey also take great pride in sustainability efforts, utilizing mass timber to minimize embodied carbon in our structures, and providing Life Cycle Assessments on our committed projects.

Visit KL&A’s website

Looking for additional resources?

Allied Members are better known as trusted industry colleagues and members of AIA Colorado—they’re the interior designers, the kitchen specialists, the engineering partners, and more who make up our AEC community in Colorado.
View AIA Colorado’s Allied Member Directory.

Helpful Links:

• Contact AIA Colorado Staff
• AIA Colorado Calendar
• AIA Colorado News and Articles

AIA Colorado Firm Directory

• Add your firm to the directory here.

Save the Dates:

• 2026 Awards Celebration: 
  • Mile High Station, Denver, CO
  • Thursday, September 17
• 2026 Practice + Design Conference: 
  • Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO
  • November 11 – 13

In this Newsletter:

• Practice + Design Conference session recaps and coverage
• 2026 AIA Colorado Call for Volunteers
• 2026 Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program
• 2026 ASCEND Mentorship Program
• Wild Rose, Gunnison County Library, and Confluence on America ByDesign
• Dec 9 West Virtual Connect
• Dec 10 Business of Architecture: Owner Burnout
• Dec 16 North Section Holiday Happy Hour in Longmont
• Dec 18 Cancel Culture in Climate COTE discussion
• Dec 18 South Section Holiday Happy Hour in Colorado Springs
• Dec 18 West Section Holiday Happy Hour in Carbondale
• National news
• 11Premier Partner spotlight: Humboldt Sawmill and Allweather Wood

THE POWER OF: 2025 Practice + Design Conference

Thank you to everyone who joined us in Keystone for the 2025 Practice + Design Conference and to those who followed along from your studios across the state. Whether you were onsite or catching updates from colleagues, this year’s gathering made one thing clear: THE POWER OF is not just a theme, but a call to action for Colorado architects.

Over three days, attendees explored the power of design to drive meaningful change, the power of technology to reshape practice, the power of a resilient and supported workforce, and the power of architects to lead with clarity in a rapidly evolving world.

Session Summaries and Conference Photos

New this year, catch up with session recaps and key takeaways from this year’s conference sessions! On the AIA Conference webpage, you’ll find write-ups and imagery from our keynote presentations delivered by Hank Koning, FAIA, and Julie Eizenberg, FAIA, Mark Bacon, AIA, Michelle Delk, and David Zach, plus insights from eleven breakout sessions and all three tech connect sessions!

Also, view and download photos from the conference, and feel free to share them! When you do, please credit AIA Colorado and Amp Media.

2026 Call for Volunteers

The 2026 AIA Colorado Call for Volunteers is now open. We are seeking members to serve on committees that reflect our mission, vision, and values. Volunteering with AIA Colorado is a great way to develop leadership skills, connect with colleagues, and help shape the future of the profession. We encourage candidates from a variety of perspectives and backgrounds including career stage, firm size, practice type, location, and personal demographics. Apply today and make your impact on architecture in Colorado! Application window closes Monday, December 1st, at 11:59pm. More information is available here.

2026 Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program

The Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program (CKLDP) aims to train the next generation of leaders in architecture through a series of nine half-day sessions. The curriculum focuses on honing skills like:

• Entrepreneurship and firm management
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Negotiation skills
• Client development
• Community leadership
• Understanding industry trends

Each year, this competitive program accepts 16 emerging professionals to collaborate,

learn together, and develop as leaders in architecture. This program is ideal for members who are eager to advance in their career and either have not yet become a licensed architect, or have been licensed for 10 years or less. 

Applications for the 2026 Class are now available with the window closing Monday, December 1st, at 11:59pm. More information about the program can be found here and the application link is here.

2026 Ascend Mentorship Program

The Ascend Program connects emerging architecture professionals with mid-career architects through mentorship as an intentional first step into the profession. These connections will support EP’s in the early stage of their careers, guiding through challenges, setting goals, and developing the skill set to succeed. Ascend groups are organized locally. 

Program Outcomes:

• Guidance
  • Awareness and identification of culture of architecture profession. Training on professional etiquette and expectations. Negotiate the adjustments from academia to profession.
• Support, Problem Solving
  • Preparing for and dealing with challenges in the working environment.
• Career Planning, Goal Setting
  • Understanding the different career paths in architecture. Setting goals in a career and developing a pathway to achieve those goals.

Mentors and Mentees for the 2026 program are now invited to apply now until Monday, December 1st, at 11:59pm. More information about the program can be found here and the application link is here.

America ByDesign

Season 4’s finale episode features two projects by AIA Colorado members. Click on the video thumbnails to skip ahead to the Colorado project segments.

Do you have a project that you’d like to see in a future America ByDesign episode? The show’s producers are looking for more Colorado projects! Information about the show and next steps can be found here.

Dec 9 • West Virtual Connect

Tuesday, December 9th, from Noon – 1pm, connect with Western Slope AIA members for a discussion recapping the past and upcoming government affairs work of AIA Colorado with a focus on the impacts in Western Colorado. There will be a brief presentation to get the conversation started, following by Q+A and discussion. More info and RSVP here.

Dec 10 • Business of Architecture: Owner Burnout

Wednesday, December 10th, networking from 5:30 – 6pm, roundtable discussion from 6 – 7:30pm. Join in person or online for a discussion about owner burnout. Topics to be discussed include: 

• What is owner burnout and what does it look like?
• How does an owner get to burnout stage?
• Dealing with stress
• How to release/delegate responsibilities
• Taking a sabbatical

This is a hybrid event with hosted locations in Denver and Carbondale, as well as online via Teams. RSVP here.

Dec 15 • AIA Colorado Denver Section + IMEG Holiday “Roll with Us” Bowling Party

Monday, December 15th, from 6 – 8pm, join AIA Colorado Denver Section members and AIA Colorado’s Premier Partner IMEG for a Holiday “Roll with Us” Bowling Party at the Denver Athletic Club. This holiday season, we’re trading blueprints for bowling pins and specs for strikes! Join us as we celebrate a year of building great things together—no hard hats required (but festive sweaters are encouraged!). More info and RSVP here.

Dec 16 • North Section Holiday Happy Hour

Tuesday, December 16th, from 5:30 – 7:30pm, join the AIA Colorado North Section members for a Holiday Happy Hour Party at Teocalli Cocina in Longmont (460 Main St, Longmont, CO 80501). Festive holiday sweaters encouraged! RSVP here.

Dec 17 • West Section Holiday Happy Hour

Wednesday, December 17th, from 5:30 – 7:30pm, join the AIA Colorado West Section members for a Holiday Happy Hour Party at Carbondale Clay Center (135 Main St. Carbondale, CO 81623). RSVP here.

Dec 18 • Cancel Culture in Climate

Thursday, December 18th, at 8am, join AIA Colorado’s Committee on the Environmentto meet Jenny Morgan and discuss her book Cancel Culture in Climate. This event is open to AIA members and RSVP is here.

Dec 18 • South Section Holiday Happy Hour

Thursday, December 18th, from 5:30 – 7pm, join the AIA Colorado South Section members for a Holiday Happy Hour Party at COATI, in Colorado Springs (

514 S Tejon St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903). RSVP here.

The AIA Colorado Job Board is updated daily. Job hunting? Take a peek to discover new opportunities. Hiring? Post your single job for 30 days. Connect with qualified candidates. Here are a few featured job openings:

• Project Architect/Job Captain at Carvell Architects, Inc.
• Architectural Senior Project Coordinator at The Beck Group
• Architect at Vetegrity

Young Architect Forum (YAF) October Newsletter

A newsletter from the AIA Young Architects Forum (YAF). Look out for important news, AIA updates, and ways to engage, no biggie. Highlights include:

• Align Mentorship Program – applications open and more information here. 
• Q3 Connections published.
• It Takes a Village AIAU course moderated by Future Forward Grant recipients from 2024, including AIA Colorado’s Kaylyn Kirby, AIA. More information here.

Read the newsletter here.

Architecture Firm Billings See Continued Decline

The ABI score rose to 47.6 in October from 43.3 in September, indicating that while a majority of firms still saw a decline in their billings, the share was smaller than it was last month. Read at AIA.

We’re proud to highlight one of AIA Colorado’s Premier Partners, Humboldt Sawmill and Allweather Wood, and look forward to their ongoing support and involvement serving Colorado’s architecture community. 

Humboldt Sawmill Company, LLC manufactures redwood and Douglas-fir dimensional lumber, timbers, and uppers at the company’s sawmill in Scotia, California. Logs are sourced from company-owned timberlands totaling nearly 450,000 acres, and all products are certified to the standards of the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC® C013133). Products are available mill direct, as well as through company-owned distribution centers, servicing home improvement retailers and local lumberyards, including locations throughout Colorado.

Allweather Wood, LLC is the largest waterborne preservative treated lumber and plywood manufacturer in the western United States with six manufacturing facilities, including a facility in Loveland, Colorado. Treated products include borate, copper, and fire retardants available in Douglas-fir, Hem fir, and Southern Yellow Pine. 

View AIA Continuing Education Courses offered by Humboldt Sawmill

Looking for additional resources?

Allied Members are better known as trusted industry colleagues and members of AIA Colorado—they’re the interior designers, the kitchen specialists, the engineering partners, and more who make up our AEC community in Colorado.
View AIA Colorado’s Allied Member Directory.

Helpful Links:

• Contact AIA Colorado Staff
• AIA Colorado Calendar
• AIA Colorado News and Articles

AIA Colorado Firm Directory

• Add your firm to the directory here.