I am an architect. I have spent many years learning to be an architect, researching code, building science, and design. I have taken multiple tests (9 different exams, some 3 hour long, some 6 hour long), received letters from my peers stating I am competent, and completed 8 years of school along the way to be able to use the title Architect. I served as an intern under a registered architect for 3+ years to be able to have the right to be called architect. So why does having the initials AIA after my name add any credibility to what I am or what I can provide for a client?
AIA are the initials that Registered Architects (RA) can use if they are licensed, in good standing, and pay a fee. AIA simply stands for American Institute of Architects. You do have to be a Registered Architect to use the initials AIA, but there are no tests to achieve that status other than the ability to write a check. There are nearly 300 state and local AIA Chapters across the country that serves as the voice of the architecture profession and the resource for their members in service of society. AIA is an advocacy group, a marketing group, and a source for continued education for architects.
AIA architects remain current with professional standards through continuing education and subscribe to a Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct that assures clients, the public, and colleagues of their dedication to high standards in professional practice.
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