Renew Your Membership: A Member Shares Why AIA Membership is Important for His Career

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Photo Credit ©️ AIA NoVA

The value of AIA membership extends beyond those three letters after your name. It’s an investment, not a transaction. AIA Northern Virginia provides supportive programming, networking opportunities, design celebrations, continuing education, community engagement, and leadership avenues – all geared toward our local interests. The most relevant specific advantages of AIA will be different for each member, but there’s something for everyone. 

Reflecting on my AIA journey, I take pride in service to the profession, but many of my motives have been selfish rather than altruistic. As an associate member, I found tremendous benefits early in my career: I broadened my experience with construction tours, professional practice panels, mentorship programs, and expanded networking. The ARE® Prep program was pivotal during my path to licensure, connecting me with study groups and resources that ensured success on every exam attempt. My graphic skills improved through contributing digital artwork, and volunteering in K-12 schools brought passion and meaning to my career. When I was ready to make a career move, an AIA networking connection from a happy hour led to a job opportunity at my current firm, where I’ve thrived for a dozen years. The leadership skills I developed through my involvement with various chapter committees and programs over the years are invaluable, and I cultivated them further through participation in AIA Virginia’s Emerging Leaders in Architecture program. These experiences significantly contributed to my professional growth and confidence, which in turn helped me advance at my firm and grow as a leader there as well. All of that happened through the AIA.

Now, taking on more significant roles in firm and professional leadership, AIA membership continues to offer immense value. The network I’ve cultivated has opened doors to teaming opportunities, client relationships, and recruitment efforts. The organization’s advocacy at local, state, and federal levels protects our practice, while research, continuing education, and conferences enhance business knowledge. The connections I’ve made through AIA have developed into lasting personal and professional relationships I treasure.

The value you find in AIA membership may be different than mine, but I strongly believe the greatest value comes from engagement. Like many things in life, you get out of it what you put in. AIA has provided me with invaluable experiences and connections, and I can’t imagine not continuing my membership into the future. To make it truly “worth it,” get involved. The best way to influence change is from within. So, what are you waiting for?

-Braden L. Field, AIA, 2025 AIA NoVA Past President

Published: 01/21/2025
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