AIA Colorado National Representatives – Spring 2023

Sarah Broughton, FAIA, AIA Colorado President

Next week, I am attending the national conference on
architecture in San Francisco. As president, it is
humbling to represent all of our members in votes for
national officers, bylaws and resolutions at the annual
business meeting. I welcome your thoughts on the
candidates and issues. It is also inspiring to see so
many peers leading the profession as presenters,
award winners and new Fellows. For those also going
to the conference, we hope you can join us for
Colorado night – RSVP here.

One annual gathering does not come close to showing
the work. Did you know we have many Colorado
colleagues serving in national roles on your behalf?
Please take a moment to get to know these amazing
volunteers who I’ve asked to share their favorite
resource that their role has helped develop for the
membership.


National Architect Licensing Advisor

Kahyun Lee, AIA, National Architect Licensing Advisor, Fentress, Denver

Along with Mara Song, AIA, we want licensure candidates and architects to have access to every tool they need to navigate the path to licensure and reciprocity – and one of those is the community of Architect Licensing Advisors. Architect licensing advisors are local professionals, educators, and students who volunteer their time to help others pursue licensure and reciprocity. These volunteers often provide candidates with their first glimpse into the licensure process, lending help and guidance along the way.

  • We have helped 10 candidates so far in 2023. 3 of them are internationals (including foreign architects and candidates with foreign degrees).
  • Session at CU Boulder on 2/24, licensure
    pathways and basics
  • Session at CU Denver on 4/17, licensure
    pathways and basics

National Associates Committee

Kari Lawson, AIA, National Associate Committee, State/Territory Associate Representative, HDR Inc,
Denver

National Associate Committee (NAC) meets quarterly to discuss key topics that impact associates. There are 5 workgroups organized to assist with advocating on the behalf of associates: Advocacy, Strategic Partnership, VALUE, Knowledge: Professional Development, and Turquoise Agenda.

Our Q2 call focused on: Licensure (the ARE, Stop the Clock), Associate Resources & Engagement, Equity (Barriers, Pay, Work-Life Balance), Networking (Visibility & Awareness), and Mentorship.

As a team member of the Strategic Partnership NAC work group, our mission is to amplify visibility of the NAC by providing a clear framework to raise associate member awareness and provide a repository of information to leverage leadership opportunities. The Advocacy Work Group recently completed a research sprint of the specific jurisdictional impediments blocking the full adoption of NCARB’s newest score validity policy. See the presentation deck that provides in-depth information for jurisdictions with regulatory or statutory impediments.

Here are several A’23 Sessions featuring NAC Members or Topics:


AIA Small Firm Exchange (SFx)

Emily Adams, AIA, Small Firm Exchange Representative, Neoera, Inc. Denver

The mission of the AIA Small Firm Exchange (SFx) is to advance the mutual interests of architects practicing in small firms. As more than 75% of all firms within the AIA are small firms, including my own, I’m invested in finding ways to leverage that size for collaboration and influence, just like the individual large firms do. Additionally, as a member of the AIA Colorado Business of Architecture Knowledge Community, I’ve been focusing more internal effort on understanding when/how to hire talent into small firms.

To learn more about the work of the Small Firm Exchange (SFx), visit here. If you’re planning to attend A’23, here’s the SFx picks we think you should check out.


State Disaster Assistance

Brett Hartle, AIA, Colorado State Disaster Assistance Coordinator, Director of Design – Denver International Airport, Denver

Brett acts as AIA Colorado’s liaison/primary point of contact with other State Disaster Assistance Coordinators across the United States and AIA National Office. Additionally, Brett is certified by Cal OES as a Safety Assessment Program (SAP) Evaluator.

Home Innovation Research Labs (Home Innovation) was tasked by HUD to develop a set of practical, actionable guidelines to assist builders and developers in designing and constructing residential buildings, neighborhoods, and accessory structures in a manner that could improve residential resilience to natural hazards and integrate resiliency throughout the community. The resilience guides provide technical content in a straightforward way that is easy for a layperson to understand, while also providing references through which design professionals, builders, developers, and public officials can obtain full details. The guide consists of five volumes. Each volume focuses on a major category of hazard that may pertain to a given project: wind, water, fire, earth (seismic, earthslides, sinkholes), and auxiliary (other hazards such as volcanoes, hail, and temperature extremes). These resilience guides are not intended to substitute for engineering or architectural project design work; rather, the technical guidance identifies components that can be enhanced or improved to achieve above code performance to make residential buildings and other community assets more resilient.

View Designing for Natural Hazards Series Volumes 1 – 5


AIA Strategic Council

Zachary Taylor, AIA, Strategic Council Representative, Taylor Architecture Design, Colorado Springs

The AIA Strategic Council, formed in 2015 from the national repositioning, has changed in the last two years as Councilors were previously chosen at the Region level to serve the membership. With the dissolution of the regions, states now have direct representation on the Strategic Council. It has been my privilege to serve as the first AIA CO representative to the Council.

The Strategic Council is charged to be the forward-looking body within the AIA that informs the national Board of Directors of important issues relevant to the profession through the lens of the Strategic Plan’s core values, imperatives, and strategies. More information about the Strategic Council can be found here.

This year the Council is focusing on five areas of study: Carbon, Design, Economy, Equity, and Health Wellness. Personally, I have been involved with the Carbon Study Group where we’ve been diving into the topic of “Climate-Positive Practice”. We are building on past Council work/reports of Scalable Climate Action and Carbon Literacy (both of which can be found at the link above). I’d like to thank Rodwin Architecture, Fentress Architects, and Shape Architecture for allowing me to pick the brains of their team members on how they’re currently pushing this topic forward within their practices.


AIA Young Architect Forum

Kaylyn Kirby, AIA, Young Architect Forum Representative, Semple Brown Design, PC, Denver

As the Young Architect Rep for CO, I represent the state at the National level within the Young Architects Forum. The YAF is the voice of recently licensed architects (licensed less than 10 years) and a catalyst for progress within the Institute. The 2023-2027 Strategic Initiative is: Architects in Action, Catalyzing for Change. The group meets as a full committee as well as is organized into Focus Groups, which allow us to provide more focused attention on certain initiatives. The 2023 focus groups include: Communications, Community, Advocacy, Knowledge, Strategic Vision, and Special Projects.

Available Resources:


AIA College of Fellows

Gregory M. Friesen, FAIA, AIA College of Fellows Western Mountain Region (COF WMR) Representative Member, CSNA Architects, Colorado Springs Colorado, Springboard Preservation Studio, Colorado Springs | Montrose

Although AIA National no longer recognizes it, the College of Fellows retains the Western Mountain Region and considers it to be vital. The seven-state Region includes Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. There are 184 Fellows in the Western Mountain Region, which is 5% of all AIA Fellows.

There are two Regional Representatives – Jonathan Sparer, FAIA Las Vegas Nevada, and Gregory M. Friesen, FAIA Colorado Springs Colorado. In addition to the Regional Representatives, there are State representatives:
Jack DeBartolo, FAIA – Arizona with 62 Fellows
Glen Berry FAIA, – Idaho with 3 Fellows
Jonathan Sparer, FAIA – Nevada with 16 Fellows
Glenn Fellows, FAIA – New Mexico with 25 Fellows
Roger Jackson, FAIA – Utah with 23 Fellows
John Carney, FAIA – Wyoming with 4 Fellows
Currently Colorado – with 70 Fellows – does not have an official representative; I am
serving in that role de facto.

The COF WMR Representatives meet monthly. At our last meeting, we agreed to form a COF WMR Fellows Committee to promote candidates for Fellowship within the Region, and to review and strengthen their submittals to the AIA College of Fellows Jury.

Colorado Architecture News | 03.01.23

“It is a breath of fresh air that the profession is finally recognizing exceptional talent and accomplishments in the community and in support for diversity, equity, and inclusion.”

— Rich Von Luhrte, FAIA, regarding Ron Abo’s recent elevation to AIA’s College of Fellows.

Three outstanding architects from Colorado have been newly elevated to the College of Fellows, one of the highest honors bestowed by the American Institute of Architects (AIA)

Ron Abo, FAIA, Principal at The Abo GroupVictor Olgyay, FAIA, Principal at Rocky Mountain Institute, and Brad Tomecek, FAIA, Principal at Tomecek Studio Architecture were recognized for their contributions to the architecture profession, and their dedication to advancing the built environment. Only 3 percent of AIA’s 95,000 members hold this distinction and only 76 new fellows were inducted this year, a historically small number. Even in a historically small group of inductees, Colorado had the largest class of new Fellows in five years! Please join us in congratulating Ron Abo, FAIA, Victor Olgyay, FAIA, and Brad Tomecek, FAIA on their elevation to the AIA College of Fellows. Their dedication to excellence in architecture and commitment to sustainability and innovation are an inspiration to us all.
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AIA COLORADO NEWS

AIA Applauds NCARB for Eliminating the Rolling Clock
Recently, NCARB’s Board of Directors made the decision to retire the rolling clock policy, which placed a five-year expiration date on passed divisions of the Architect Registration Examination (ARE®). 
For more information, visit NCARB’s statement.

AIA has held ongoing discussions with NCARB in support of the removal of the rolling clock policy to advance a more inclusive future for the architecture profession.
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“We welcome this change and believe Colorado is well positioned to make it effective as soon as NCARB policy is updated in April. AIA representatives will be asking the licensing board to recognize the new guidelines at their next meeting so this can be put in place without delay.

Colorado licensure candidates have a higher test passage rate, complete the ARE exams faster and finish AXP at a greater percentage than national averages in all three categories. The hard work of these candidates and the supporting infrastructure through firms, mentors, and chapter resources makes a difference and this new policy can only help clear the path to licensure.”

— Mike Waldinger, Hon. AIA, CEO AIA Colorado

Share Your Story. How Has the Rolling Clock Impacted You? 
The American Institute of Architects celebrates the recent decision and encourages you share your story of how you have been affected by the rolling clock on your journey to licensure.
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Colorado Project Selected as Recipient for National Design Award
The 2023 AIA Awards, Architecture program, celebrates the best contemporary architecture regardless of budget, size, style, or type. These stunning projects show the world the range of outstanding work architects create and highlight the many ways buildings and spaces can improve our lives. Join us in congratulating Tryba Architects!
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AIA Colorado Wants Your Feedback On Architecture Licensing Law
All licensed professions in Colorado undergo periodic “sunset” reviews, where the Dept. of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) investigates if continued regulation is deemed necessary to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public. Architects, Professional Engineers, and Land Surveyors are up for review in 2023. As part of our advocacy efforts, AIA Colorado will provide feedback and recommendations to DORA later this spring and lobby to continue licensure both this year and during the 2024 legislative session when an updated licensing bill will be introduced. We’re collecting input from members on our current licensing law. What’s working? What’s not? Please reach out to Nikolaus Remus with any comments or questions by Friday, March 24th.

AIA COLORADO EVENTS

MARCH 2
Happy Hour in Boulder
Join fellow AIA Colorado members and the AIA Colorado Board of Directors in Boulder for a social time at the World Famous Dark Horse.
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MARCH 9
Academy of Architecture for Health: Annual Update 
You are invited to join the 2023 Academy of Architecture for Health (AAH) Knowledge Community for an update from AAH National and a discussion on local developments on March 9th at Noon.

We will be joined by the 2023 AAH National President, Kenneth Webb, who will share updates from the Academy, as well as a representative of the American College of Healthcare Architects (ACHA). Additionally, AAH Colorado Chair Jack Reed will be sharing a recap of last year’s activities, along with a preview of the year ahead. Please register beforehand for this virtual event.
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2023 CALL FOR APPLICATIONS

Considering AIA Fellowship?
Fellowship is the highest recognition, other than the gold medal award, given to architects recognizing their work, their service, and volunteerism. It is not an award for longevity in the profession, but for merit and effort. As we engage 2023 and evaluate professional goals for the coming year, we invite you to learn more about and consider AIA Fellowship. Preliminary submittals for the nominating committee to review as they assist our members interested in Fellowship are due by March 27th.
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AIA MEMBER NEWS

­­­Alan Ford Architects Promotes New Associate Principal
Alan Ford Architects recently promoted Tyler Michieli to Associate Principal.
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Hord Coplan Macht Announces Retirement of Founder/CEO and Names Successor
Hord Coplan Macht has just announced the retirement of Founder and Chief Executive Officer Lee Coplan, and named Tim Barnhill, current Chief Operating Officer as successor.
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PARTNER NEWS + EVENTS

MARCH 2 
CAP Lecture Series: Design for the Collective with Joyce Hwang
How can we design for the more-than-human world? What are ways to include non-human species as architecture’s intended inhabitants — and even as stakeholders? The lecture will focus on Hwang’s research and practice in multispecies design, and her more recent interdisciplinary collaborations. This lecture is free and open to the public and will also be livestreamed and recorded. Please RSVP to attend.
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APRIL 13
Architectural Historic Buildings Program by CSU Expert
Colorado State University’s Architectural Virtual Library will be presented Thursday, April 13, from 6-7:30 pm at the Global Village Museum in Fort Collins. Maria Delgado, Assistant Professor in CSU’s Department of Design and Merchandising, will highlight the online library featuring architectural historic buildings across the state. Please RSVP to attend.
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Review Draft Recommendations for Accessory Dwelling Units in Denver
After a year of soliciting feedback from an Advisory Committee, focus groups, neighborhood organizations, and the public, Denver has released draft recommendations to make building accessory dwelling units (ADUs) easier and more responsive to different neighborhood needs.
Draft Guide
2 Page Summary

Denver to Phase Out Gas Equipment in Commercial Buildings
New code requirements to help Denver reach its climate action goals will go into effect for existing commercial and multifamily buildings this week. These requirements were outlined in the Energize Denver ordinance passed by City Council in 2021. Starting March 1, the new requirements will apply to gas-powered space and water heating and cooling equipment (such as gas water heaters, A/C units, and furnaces) in commercial and multifamily buildings. 
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NEWS AT NATIONAL

Young Architects Forum February Newsletter
A newsletter from the AIA Young Architects Forum (YAF). Look out for important news, AIA updates, and ways to engage, no biggie.
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Launching A New Firm?
Whether you’re ready to start a firm or merely curious about what is needed from the business side of running a successful practice, the AIA Trust’s Start a Firm guide is the best place to begin. A wealth of information awaits you from critical insurance coverage to benefits packages to retirement plans.

Plus, there are products like Practice Coach – a legal advice service – and others that can help you plan and manage risks – anticipated or not – effectively so you can build success and profitability. 

There is much to consider, but we’ve consolidated it for you in one convenient spot so you can launch your practice when ready.
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A’23 in San Francisco
A’23 – AIA Conference on Architecture is heading to the Bay Area June 7-10, 2023. Get the lowest hotel rate by booking your room in the AIA hotel block today.
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Colorado Architecture News | 02.15.23

THE WEEK IN WORDS

“My standards are higher than yours.”

— Chris Shears, FAIA, speaking to the University of Colorado Denver Building Leadership

Seminar. He shared about a time when when he was pressed regarding adherence to

prescriptive standards and guidelines during a public design review meeting. He stated that

standards and guidelines aside, “there’s no law that you can pass that will make me want to do a

better job. The standards must be higher if the intent is a great project.” Chris explained that it is

the conscious sense of civic duty and desire to always do more inspired work that must drive

architects.

Ascend Program Kickoff
The Denver Ascend Mentorship Program kicked off this year’s cohort with its first session last
Thursday. Pairing emerging professionals with mid-career architects, the group includes mentors
and mentees from a dozen firms throughout Denver. The first session met at the AIA offices at
the Alliance Center. Maxing out at 12 participants and facilitators, the small group will meet every
month this spring and summer to share knowledge, experiences, and offer career guidance.

AIA COLORADO EVENTS

FEBRUARY 22
Denver Existing Building Performance
Join the City and County of Denver to learn about upcoming existing building code and how you
can ensure buildings you work with comply with equipment replacement requirements. We will
address how this new policy impacts buildings, where to start, and resources including financial
incentives and available trainings so you can better work with your clients and give them the right
tools to succeed.
Even if you’re not currently doing work in Denver, more and more jurisdictions in Colorado will be
adopting similar requirements. This is a great opportunity to get a glimpse into the future for all
architects in Colorado. Visit Denver’s Office of Climate Action, Sustainability and Resiliency
website and sign up for the event at the link below.
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MARCH 9
Academy of Architecture for Health: Annual Update
You are invited to join the 2023 Academy of Architecture for Health (AAH) Knowledge
Community for an update from AAH National and a discussion on local developments on March
9th at Noon.
We will be joined by the 2023 AAH National President, Kenneth Webb, who will share updates
from the Academy, as well as a representative of the American College of Healthcare Architects
(ACHA). Additionally, AAH Colorado Chair Jack Reed will be sharing a recap of last year’s
activities, along with a preview of the year ahead. Please register beforehand for this virtual
event.
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2023 CALL FOR APPLICATIONS

Considering AIA Fellowship?
Fellowship is the highest recognition, other than the gold medal award, given to architects
recognizing their work, their service, and volunteerism. It is not an award for longevity in the
profession, but for merit and effort. As we engage 2023 and evaluate professional goals for the
coming year, we invite you to learn more about and consider AIA Fellowship. Preliminary
submittals for the nominating committee to review as they assist our members interested in
Fellowship are due by March 27th.
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Architectural Education Foundation Scholarships Now Open
The Architectural Education Foundation, in partnership with AIA Colorado, offers traveling and
professional development scholarships to support your educational endeavors and gain more
experience. Since 1961, they have awarded more than $800,000 to more than 250 students,
architects, and teachers. Thanks to their support, we’re pleased to announce the availability of
academic and travel scholarships for 2023.
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PARTNER NEWS + EVENTS

FEBRUARY 20
CAP Lecture Series: Bio-Design and the Built Environment with Assia Crawford
The research presented in this talk will focus on strategies for developing living building materials
that can address sustainability issues in the Anthropocene. The talk will examine bio-design
integration into established building practices and will highlight the ethical implication and
challenges that emerge by introducing non-human actors into building settings. This lecture is at
Noon and is free and open to the public. This event will also be livestreamed and recorded.
Please RSVP beforehand.
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NEWS AT NATIONAL

Earthquakes in Turkey and Syria
AIA and its architects, often serving as volunteers, assist communities following disasters.
Updates regarding AIA’s activities in disaster areas, resources, and volunteer opportunities can
be found at AIA National’s website.
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Firm Survey Report
The AIA Firm Survey Report is the only report that covers the full complexity of firms that power
the architecture and design profession. With data from more than 500 firms, this essential
resource includes metrics to measure practice, evaluate performance, and set strategy. Free for
AIA Members.
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Healthcare Design Awards
The Healthcare Design Awards showcase the best of health care building design, health care
planning and health care design-oriented research. The awards highlight the trends of health
care facilities and the future direction of these facilities. Projects should exhibit conceptual
strength that solve aesthetic, civic, urban, and social concerns as well as the requisite functional
and sustainability concerns associated with a health care setting.
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Insurance and Bonds as Risk Management Tools for Construction Project Owners
An AIA Contract Documents Webinar taking place February 23rd from 11am – Noon. Learn about
various types of insurance coverages and about payment, performance, and warranty bonds
owners should consider for each construction project.
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A’23 in San Francisco
A’23 – AIA Conference on Architecture is heading to the Bay Area June 7-10, 2023. Get the
lowest hotel rate by booking your room in the AIA hotel block today.
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Colorado Architecture News | 02.01.23

THE WEEK IN WORDS
“We are the living heritage of our state and together we are the architects of its future.”

 Gov. Jared Polis in his State of the State address, delivered January 17th.

As we are now embarking on a new year, we want to simply say Thank You for making 2022 such a great year as well as for your continued involvement into this year. We had a record number of members, allied members, and premier partners last year and we’re grateful for your commitment to AIA Colorado’s mission.

Most of you reading this have already renewed while others are in the process of renewal. If you haven’t already done so, AIA Members please visit aia.org to check your renewal status and ensure that you’re all set for 2023. Allied Members please renew here. Once again, Thank You for helping to create a movement of change agents to broaden the impact of architecture!

AIA COLORADO NEWS

­­­

Colorado Climate Policy with Senator Chris Hansen
On January 23rd, a room full of architects turned out to hear Senator Chris Hansen (District 31) lay out recent policy wins in the fight against the climate crisis and espouse on his vision for how to progress those wins into the future. Editorial Committee Member Drew Allen, AIA, was there and shares his observations from the event.
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2023 CALL FOR APPLICATIONS

This past Friday, January 27th, AIA Fellows enjoyed their first gathering of the year. Held at Rowland + Broughton studios, the gathering was also attended by AIA Colorado Board Members and Staff.

Considering AIA Fellowship?
Fellowship is the highest recognition, other than the gold medal award, given to architects recognizing their work, their service, and volunteerism. It is not an award for longevity in the profession, but for merit and effort. As we engage 2023 and evaluate professional goals for the coming year, we invite you to learn more about and consider AIA Fellowship. Preliminary submittals for the nominating committee to review as they assist our members interested in Fellowship are due by March 27th.
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Architectural Education Foundation Scholarships Now Open
The Architectural Education Foundation, in partnership with AIA Colorado, offers traveling and professional development scholarships to support your educational endeavors and gain more experience. Since 1961, they have awarded more than $800,000 to more than 250 students, architects, and teachers. Thanks to their support, we’re pleased to announce the availability of academic and travel scholarships for 2023.
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CONTINUING EDUCATION

Interested In Getting Ahead With Your Credits This Year?
Available all year round, the AIA Colorado On-Demand Continuing Education platform offers courses that cover a variety of topics to help you best serve clients and communities through excellence in design and practice.
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AIA MEMBER NEWS

CCY Architects Broadens Leadership Team
CCY Architects has announced that Maura Trumble has joined the ownership of the firm, becoming CCY’s first female Principal.
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News to Share?
Does your firm have news that you’d like to share with the AIA Colorado community? If so, please send to jon@aiacolorado.org for consideration and inclusion.

AIA COLORADO EVENTS

FEBRUARY 22
Denver Existing Building Performance
Join the City and County of Denver to learn about upcoming existing building code and how you can ensure buildings you work with comply with equipment replacement requirements. We will address how this new policy impacts buildings, where to start, and resources including financial incentives and available trainings so you can better work with your clients and give them the right tools to succeed.

Even if you’re not currently doing work in Denver, more and more jurisdictions in Colorado will be adopting similar requirements. This is a great opportunity to get a glimpse into the future for all architects in Colorado. Visit Denver’s Office of Climate Action, Sustainability and Resiliency website and sign up for the event at the link below.
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Save The Dates!
While we will have much more to share about both of these events in the months to come, we’re excited to share the following: 

SEPTEMBER 19
2023’s Design + Honor Awards Celebration at Mile High Station

NOVEMBER 15-17
2023’s Practice + Design Conference will be held at Keystone

PARTNER NEWS + EVENTS

Denver Landmark Preservation Commission Opening
Denver’s Landmark Preservation Commission is seeking a new commissioner to fill an upcoming vacancy this spring. Commissioners shall attend twice-monthly meetings and periodic special meetings to hear and decide requests for:

  • Alterations, additions, signage, site work, zone lot amendments, and new construction within local historic districts and individual landmark sites 
  • Demolition within historic districts and individual landmark sites 
  • Historic preservation tax credit certification 
  • Individual landmark or historic district 

If you’re interested in this position, please review the full list of duties and qualifications, then submit a resume or professional biography to Nikolaus Remus. Nominations have been extended and will now be accepted by AIA Colorado through noon on Thursday, February 9th. AIA Colorado will send a list of interested members in good standing to Landmark Preservation staff but does not internally evaluate nominations.
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Denver Lower Downtown Design Review Commission
Denver’s Lower Downtown Design Review Commission is seeking new commissioners to fill the following vacancies this spring:

  • Preservation architect
  • Business owner/operator in the Lower Downtown Historic District
  • Real-estate developer

If you’re interested in this position, please review the full list of duties and qualifications, then submit a resume or professional biography to Nikolaus Remus. Nominations will be accepted by AIA Colorado through noon on Friday, February 24th. AIA Colorado will send a list of interested members in good standing to the commission but staff does not internally evaluate nominations.
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NEWS AT NATIONAL

A Key Year In Advancing AIA’s Federal Legislative Agenda
After a strong 2022 when AIA claimed several legislative victories on Capitol Hill, 2023 is shaping up to be another pivotal year in advancing AIA’s public policy agenda. AIA’s 2023 Lobby Day takes place on Wednesday, February 15th, and will focus on two bills: the Democracy in Design Act and the Resilient AMERICA Act.
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2023 The Future of Cities 
Explore key themes, provocative solutions, the critical role of design leadership, and adapting solutions to different cities, climate zones, and political environments. The Future of Cities is a new six-course series hosted by Communities by Design (CxD), a public service program that has spent decades working with communities to address big challenges like climate change, equity, housing, and revitalization.
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Embodied Carbon Reduction in the Built Environment
The U.S. passed the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 with $369 billion in funding to cut climate pollution in half by 2030. Presented by AIA Trust, learn how the built environment contributes to climate change and what choices you can make to reduce embodied carbon.
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New Trends in Professional Liability Insurance
What trends in professional liability and risk management should you be planning for in 2023? AIA Trust’s latest review, conducted with the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) and the National Society for Professional Engineers (NSPE), has the answers.
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December 2022 Architectural Billings Index Released
Demand for design services from U.S. architecture firms continued to contract in December, according to a new report from the American Institute of Architects (AIA).
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A’23 in San Francisco
A’23 – AIA Conference on Architecture is heading to the Bay Area June 7-10, 2023. Sign up to be notified of registration and event updates.
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Colorado Architecture News | 01.18.23

THE WEEK IN WORDS
“We have a big year ahead of us that builds on a strong foundation of past success. Members have been clear in showing us what they value most and we have great partners on the staff team. This is a time for optimism and impact!”  

– Sarah Broughton, FAIA, President, AIA Colorado 
AIA COLORADO NEWS

Welcome, New Volunteers!
From Committees to Knowledge Communities and appointed roles, AIA Colorado is proud to welcome almost 100 volunteers from across Colorado who will help advance the architecture profession. Read on to meet the 2023 teams.   
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2023 National Council Representatives:
We are pleased to introduce the 2023 National Council Representatives: 

  • Strategic Council Representative, Zachary Taylor, AIA
  • Small Firm Exchange Representative, Emily Renee Adams, AIA
  • Young Architects Forum Representative, Kaylyn Kirby, AIA
  • National Associates Committee, Kari Lawson, Assoc. AIA

Meet the class of 2023: Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program
The Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program (CKLDP) 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 2023 scholars:

Ben Ludeman, Assoc. AIA, 4240 Architecture 
Yung Hong, AIA, Martin/Martin
Pratiksha Achari, Assoc. AIA, AECOM
Seth Lehman, AIA, RB+B Architects
Kelly Buchanan, AIA, Otak
Andriy Grygorenko, AIA, Page
Sarah Long, AIA, Treanor H+L
Lauren Hiatt, AIA, SLAM Collaborative
Lauren Sherman-Boemker, Assoc. AIA, Davis Partnership Architects
McKenzie Hengel, AIA, Populous
Kierstyn Feldlavy, AIA, SmithGroup
Johann Duran-Hunt, AIA, The Beck Group
David Allen, Rowland + Broughton
Benjamin Champagne, AIA, Craine Architecture
Linnaea Stuart, AIA, Arch11
Levi Wall, AIA, Otak

We also wish to recognize and thank the 2023 CKLDP Executive Committee for all their work:
Leah Gordon, Assoc. AIA, Chair, Rowland + Broughton
Chelsea Wade, AIA, Vice-Chair, Semple Brown
Maureen Henderson, AIA, Treasurer, Anderson Mason Dale
Jack Reed, AIA, Marketing Director, Page
Mark Bever, AIA, Chair-Emeritus, Rowland + Broughton

AIA COLORADO EVENTS

JANUARY 23
Colorado Climate Policy with Senator Chris Hansen
Join us for a presentation by state senator and Denver mayoral candidate Chris Hansen on Colorado’s recent efforts to combat climate change.

JANUARY 24
AIA Colorado Conversation Café
Join fellow AIA Colorado members for an informal conversation. New Year; New Conversations!

PARTNER NEWS + EVENTS

Denver Landmark Preservation Commission Opening
Denver’s Landmark Preservation Commission is seeking a new commissioner to fill an upcoming vacancy this spring. Commissioners shall attend twice-monthly meetings and periodic special meetings to hear and decide requests for:

  • Alterations, additions, signage, site work, zone lot amendments, and new construction within local historic districts and individual landmark sites 
  • Demolition within historic districts and individual landmark sites 
  • Historic preservation tax credit certification 
  • Individual landmark or historic district 

If you’re interested in this position, please review the full list of duties and qualifications, then submit a resume or professional biography to Nikolaus Remus. Nominations will be accepted by AIA Colorado through noon on Tuesday, January 31st. AIA Colorado will send a list of interested members in good standing to Landmark Preservation staff but does not internally evaluate nominations.
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Certified Passive House Designer Course
The Passive House Network Certified Passive House Designer course and PHI certification exam for professionals in the Rocky Mountain states of Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico begins January 20th. The hybrid format allows students to leverage the benefits of on-demand, live-online, and in-person training.
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NEWS AT NATIONAL

Q&A with AIA’s CEO, President, and President-elect
2023 marks the start of a historic first for AIA – an all-female leadership team. AIA’s CEO/EVP Lakisha Ann Woods, CAE, AIA President Emily Grandstaff-Rice, FAIA, and 2024 President-elect Kimberly Nicole Dowdell, AIA, look to the future of the organization and the profession as they lead AIA’s commitment to building a more equitable and diverse profession and a more sustainable built environment.
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A’23 in San Francisco
A’23 – AIA Conference on Architecture is heading to the Bay Area June 7-10, 2023. Save the date!
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Colorado Architecture News | 01.04.23

“This is the way a lot of people are going to work every day and we thought we could do something better.”  

– EJ Meade, AIA, Principal Architect at Arch11, referring to Dyna Energetics, which won an AIA Colorado award in 2021, as seen in episode 4 of the new America ByDesign series on CBS. It is one of 8 finalists for a national People’s Choice Award.

AIA COLORADO NEWS

Introducing the 2023 Board of Directors
We are pleased to usher in the 2023 AIA Colorado Board of Directors, pictured above. The Board of Directors provides stewardship of the nonprofit and is responsible for collaboratively setting the direction of the organization through consensus-driven governance, policy-making, and strategic planning.

This year’s Board will enjoy contributions from several new additions. Please join us as we get to know our newest board members:

  • Christy Collins is a licensed architect currently working with the City and County of Denver Community Planning and Development team.
  • Alexander Person is a designer at SmithGroup and current President-Elect of the NOMA Colorado Board.
  • John Glenn is a Sr. Architect with Davis Partnership with previous experience as the Advocacy Chair for AIA Virginia and Government Affairs Director for AIA Arizona. 
  • Andy Rockmore is a Principal at Shears Adkins Rockmore Architects (SAR+) and has previously Co-Chaired the Practice + Design Conference in 2014 and 2015. 
  • Joey Bahnsen is a licensed architect in Colorado Springs working for RTA Architects and has previously served AIA Colorado as a South Advisor.
2023 CALL FOR APPLICATIONS

ASCEND Mentoring Program 
The Ascend Program connects emerging architecture professionals with between 1-5 years of professional office experience with mid-career architects who have 10-15 years of experience through mentorship as an intentional first step into the profession. These connections will support emerging professionals in the early stages of their careers, guiding through challenges, setting goals, and developing the skill set to succeed. Ascend groups are organized locally. Mentors and Mentees are invited to apply no later than January 15th.
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AIA COLORADO EVENTS

JANUARY 13
Happy Hour in Boulder
Join fellow AIA Colorado members in Boulder for a social hour and celebration.

JANUARY 13
Happy Hour in Glenwood Springs
Join fellow AIA Colorado members in Glenwood Springs for a social hour and celebration.

JANUARY 23
Colorado Climate Policy with Senator Chris Hansen
Join us for a presentation by state senator and Denver mayoral candidate Chris Hansen on Colorado’s recent efforts to combat climate change.

JANUARY 24
AIA Colorado Conversation Café
Join fellow AIA Colorado members for an informal conversation. New Year; New Conversations!

PARTNER NEWS + EVENTS

Denver Landmark Preservation Commission Opening
Denver’s Landmark Preservation Commission is seeking a new commissioner to fill an upcoming vacancy this spring. Commissioners shall attend twice-monthly meetings and periodic special meetings to hear and decide requests for:

  • Alterations, additions, signage, site work, zone lot amendments, and new construction within local historic districts and individual landmark sites 
  • Demolition within historic districts and individual landmark sites 
  • Historic preservation tax credit certification 
  • Individual landmark or historic district 

If you’re interested in this position, please review the full list of duties and qualifications, then submit a resume or professional biography to Nikolaus Remus. Nominations will be accepted by AIA Colorado through noon on Tuesday, January 31st. AIA Colorado will send a list of interested members in good standing to Landmark Preservation staff but does not internally evaluate nominations.
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Energize Denver Technical Guidance Trainings
Energize Denver is hosting two in-person technical guidance trainings so you can learn more about the new energy performance requirements for buildings 25,000 sq. ft. and larger. These are repeats of the December Webinar Series. January 11, 8:00-10:30am, Webb Building Room 4G2 or January 19, 3:00-5:30pm, Webb Building Room 4G2. The Energize Denver Technical Guidance Series presentations are now online for you to watch on-demand as well. Learn more about the energy efficiency award-winning Anthem Building by attending a webinar on January 17th.

NEWS AT NATIONAL

America ByDesign: Architecture, A Six-Part Series On CBS
This is a series you will not want to miss, especially Episode 4, which was filmed at AIA National in Washington, D.C., where AIA Board leadership had the honor of sharing the insight and inspiration of AIA members and the impact you have on society. All architects highlighted in the shows are AIA members.
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A’23 in San Francisco
A’23 – AIA Conference on Architecture is heading to the Bay Area June 7-10, 2023. Save the date!
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© AIA Colorado 2023