The outside of architecture design collaborative, the perfect place for those interested in becoming an architect and pursuing architecture careers.
Becoming an architect is an excellent career path for those who want to work in a creative field and leave their mark on the world by bringing their vision to life. As an architect, you have the opportunity to create your vision and leave your mark on the world.
From residential and commercial design, there is an endless need for architects in California. At ADC, we are an award-winning architecture firm in Southern California that has specialized in creating engaging designs that connect with people since 2014.
Our passion is nurturing creativity in architects and providing a safe space they love coming to every day, and one in which they feel inspired and can do work they are proud of. Read our blog for an expert guide for those who want to start architecture careers.
ADC’s Guide to Becoming an Architect
Architecture careers are fulfilling, creative, and endlessly rewarding, but becoming an architect can seem like a complicated process. Read more to learn how to become an architect, what the job requires, and the work environment you can expect:
How to Become an Architect
The first step to becoming an architect is earning your bachelor’s degree. Most states require architects to have a five-year Bachelor of Architecture Degree through a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board.
Another important requirement to be aware of is becoming licensed. To be eligible for licensure, you must participate in an internship program to gain valuable experience in:
- Practice management
- Design
- Project management
- Pre-design
- And much more
These programs are typically three years long (5,600 hours.) We advise looking at internship opportunities through the Intern Development Program through the National Architectural Registration Boards and the American Institute of Architects.
After receiving your bachelor’s degree and completing an internship, you are then eligible to take the exam for licensure through the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, which is a seven-part pass-or-fail test.
Then, apply for an architect position at a firm or private practice.
What the Job Requires
To succeed as an architect, it is important to develop certain skills. We advise honing these skills while you are working on becoming an architect. Skills this job requires include:
- Math and engineering skills
- Analytical skills
- Organizational skills
- Computer modeling skills
- Design skills
- Leadership and management skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Visualization skills
- Communication skills
- Creative skills
- Technical and technological skills
- And more
On top of these skills, the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards offers national certifications that, while not required, make it easier for those aspiring to start architecture careers.
Aspiring architects should have a portfolio to submit when they apply for positions. Working as an architect also requires adhering to local and state building codes, zoning laws, fire regulations, and other ordinances.
Architects should be able to draft contractual documents and provide estimates on cost and construction times for projects to customers.
Potential Work Environment
Becoming an architect is a great choice for people who want to work in a fast-paced, dynamic, creative work environment where there’s never a dull moment.
Architects can work from home, in the office, or in a hybrid work environment where they collaborate closely with their colleagues. Architects also have to visit construction sites regularly to monitor the progress of projects.
At ADC, we offer a rewarding and creative work environment and culture that empowers our people to use their imagination, bring their visions to life, and do the kind of work that made them fall in love with this career in the first place.
Everyone has a voice the moment they walk through the door and has ample opportunities to take on new and challenging projects and grow. We support architects in always doing work they are proud of and that has a real impact on the community, like The Aqua.
“At ADC, you will work with a passionate and fun team that loves what they do. We aren’t another stuffy design firm – we are a safe space for people who want to let their inspiration guide their creativity and contribute meaningfully to the world through design,” said Craig Chinn, the ADC president.
Apply Now to Start Your Architecture Career
Architecture is a creative field unlike any other. As an architect, you have a vision and help bring it to life, which is as close to magic as you can get.
Still, when becoming an architect, you want to work in a rewarding environment where your colleagues love coming to work every day and a culture that empowers you to experience what drew you to this field in the first place: the satisfaction of getting to be creative.
Work is more interesting when you work with interesting people. Are you a good fit? Let’s find out. Explore open architect positions at ADC and apply now.
