3 Reasons to Invest in Aspiring Architects: World Architecture Day 2024

This year’s World Architecture Day (WAD) theme, “Empowering the Next Generation in Participatory Urban Design,” highlights the vital role young architects play in urban planning. But how do they transform from fresh-faced college grads to empowered professionals capable of building a more sustainable world? It all happens through licensure.  

Getting an architecture license early accelerates the careers of young professionals while adding measurable value to their firms. A recent NCARB study shows that 92% of ARE candidates aged 18-29 finish in less than four years, compared to the seven (or more) years it takes the average architect to get licensed. That means young professionals are getting licensed more quickly and are more likely to pass their exams in fewer tries.  

So, what can you do to support their licensure and help secure the future of your firm? Let’s find out.  

1. Foster Sustainable Firm Growth  

In an uncertain economy, any step a firm can take to ensure maximum yield is worth it. The equation is simple:  

more licensed architects + a higher billable rate = greater firm revenue 

Your youngest staff members have fresh perspectives and ideas, as well as motivation and drive. Encouraging younger staff to point their natural ambition toward licensure is a win-win. Your team members will feel the satisfaction of career advancement, and your firm will enjoy the benefits of a competent, well-educated staff: better architecture and better firm outcomes. 

2. Future-Proof Your Firm 

Helping aspiring architects get licensed is one of the best ways to ensure an architecture firm can withstand future external challenges. An investment in licensure pays dividends by enhancing your firm's productivity and elevating the quality of work, ensuring client satisfaction and loyalty.  

“Increasing the number of licensed architects within your firm opens the door to new opportunities," says Matt Young, Director of Product at Amber Book. "With more licensed professionals, your firm can handle larger projects, expand its service offerings, and position itself for greater leadership in the industry. This not only boosts your firm's capabilities but also enhances its reputation, earning greater trust from clients, the community, and peers.” 

Clients and contractors will return to architecture firms they can trust—the ones who have proven their design and construction competency. The whole staff can be part of this unbeatable team when every member is licensed. 

3. Improve Staff Loyalty 

Forty percent of licensure candidates are under the age of 30, according to a 2024 NCARB study. These young professionals are eager to get their architecture licenses and start doing great work in the field. They just need someone to invest in their career.  

Strada Architecture saw the impact of investing in their staff. When Strada Architecture licensed Amber Book for their 70 employees, they not only saw licensure rates increase—they saw a boost in employee satisfaction.  

“It’s a win/win for both the individual architect and the firm,” Lisa Polar, Human Resources Director at Strada, states. “We attract driven, talented, and committed individuals, and it speaks to the fact that we value our team members. Amber Book has become an integral part of our culture story, showing our credibility and commitment to certifications, personal growth, and development.”  

Polar highly recommends Amber Book to other architecture firms, emphasizing that it demonstrates a firm’s commitment to professional development and learning. 

Invest in the Future of Architecture 

This World Architecture Day, consider investing in solutions that help young aspiring architects get their architecture license. Create a firm where top architects aspire to be the best by investing in professional development that will ensure your firm's reputation and success for years to come.  

Interested in partnering with Amber Book? Learn more about how a firm-wide solution to ARE prep can help. Plus, discover how our scalable firm pricing is tailored to your business.