Supporting the next generation of architects and expanding opportunities for professional growth

Every architect’s career takes a different path. For some, the next milestone is completing the Architectural Registration Examination (ARE) and earning licensure. For others, it is developing the skills, relationships, and confidence to lead a firm, guide a team, or make a broader impact on the profession.

Beginning in 2027, AIA Northern Virginia is bringing these two important areas of professional development together through a new initiative: Pathways to Licensure and Pathways to Leadership.

The new Pathways program builds on two established chapter initiatives—the ARE Reimbursement Program, formerly known as the ARE Scholarship, and the Emerging Leaders in Architecture (ELA) Nomination and Grant program. By integrating these opportunities into a unified framework, AIA Northern Virginia aims to continue supporting members pursuing licensure while expanding access to leadership development opportunities that reflect the diverse interests, goals, and circumstances of our membership.

Pathways to Licensure: Supporting the Journey to Registration

Becoming a licensed architect requires dedication, experience, and a significant investment of time and resources. The ARE is a critical milestone in that journey, and examination fees can add to the financial demands facing emerging professionals.

Formerly known as the ARE Scholarship, Pathways to Licensure will continue AIA Northern Virginia’s commitment to helping our Associate AIA members overcome some of these financial barriers.

Under the program, up to two individuals will receive reimbursement for the cost of six architectural registration exam administrations. Support may be applied to new exam divisions or retakes, regardless of whether an exam is passed on the first attempt.

By helping offset these expenses, Pathways to Licensure reinforces the chapter’s commitment to supporting members as they advance toward professional registration and the opportunities that licensure brings.

Pathways to Leadership: More Choices, More Possibilities

Professional growth does not stop at licensure. Developing leadership skills, building a professional network, and learning to navigate the business and organizational challenges of architecture can benefit architects at every stage of their careers.

Previously, AIA Northern Virginia supported leadership development through its Emerging Leaders in Architecture (ELA) Nomination and Grant program. Beginning with the 2027 application year, Pathways to Leadership will move away from guaranteed nominations for designated programs and toward a more flexible, tuition-reimbursement model. Members may still request letters of recommendation for ELA and LAB from the Board.

Recognizing that participation costs extend beyond tuition to include travel, lodging, and meals, the chapter will offer reimbursement for approved applications, up to an established funding cap. ELA and LAB will remain eligible, while members may also apply for support for other programs, such as the AIA Women’s Leadership Summit and Leadership Fairfax.

This change is intended to give members greater choice in identifying the experiences that will be most meaningful to their careers. A program that is ideal for one architect may not be the right fit for another, depending on career stage, professional interests, location, or personal commitments.

Rather than limiting chapter support to a small number of predetermined programs, Pathways to Leadership will allow members to identify opportunities that meet their individual needs and make a case for how those experiences will support their growth.

What does this mean for applicants?

Under the new approach, members may submit applications for tuition reimbursement for approved leadership development programs on a rolling basis throughout the calendar year, subject to the program’s funding limits and approval process.

The chapter will no longer guarantee nominations for ELA or other leadership programs. Members applying to programs that require recommendations may still request letters of support from the AIA Northern Virginia Board.

The chapter anticipates sharing more detailed application instructions and requirements as the program launches. During the transition, the Board’s Executive Committee will review applications and determine awards while the chapter coordinates the logistics of the new process, including arrangements for members applying to ELA.

The goal is to create a process that is both thoughtful and responsive, helping members pursue meaningful development opportunities while ensuring chapter resources are allocated equitably.

Investing in Our Members and the Future of the Profession

The Pathways initiative reflects a broader belief that investing in architects means supporting them at multiple points in their professional journeys.

Licensure opens doors to new responsibilities and opportunities. Leadership development helps architects build the skills to take on those responsibilities, support their colleagues, strengthen their organizations, and contribute to the future of the profession.

By bringing these programs together, AIA Northern Virginia is continuing its commitment to member development while recognizing that there is no single route to professional success.

Whether you are preparing for your next ARE division, exploring a leadership program, or considering how to take the next step in your career, we encourage you to watch for additional information about the 2027 Pathways programs.

Your next step may look different from someone else’s, and that is precisely why these pathways are designed to offer more than one way forward.