World Architecture Day - Celebrating Firms Supporting the Next Generation of Talent
World Architecture Day, established by the International Union of Architects (UIA) in 1985, highlights the importance of architecture in shaping communities. This year's theme, "Empowering the Next Generation in Participatory Urban Design", focuses on engaging young architects in solving urban challenges.
Architecture firms play a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of talent, as fresh perspectives from young architects drive sustainable urban innovation. By involving upcoming talent in design processes, firms can help them understand societal needs and create solutions that resonate with their communities.
We are excited to spotlight several Deltek customers who are supporting the next generation of architects and, therefore, securing the industry's future.
DesignInc x Nguluway DesignInc —Syndey's Indigenous Architect Scholarship Fund
Young architects are vital for creating sustainable urban environments as cities face urbanization, climate change and social equity challenges. They contribute through participatory design, adaptive reuse, circular economy practices and sustainable construction.
DesignInc Sydney supports emerging talent with scholarships and educational opportunities. Notably, Liam Khan, a Kamilaroi architecture student at Western Sydney University, was the first to receive a fully paid Indigenous scholarship from DesignInc. Today, Liam continues to practice architecture and Designing from Country under the tutelage of Wiradjuri architect and Nguluway DesignInc Managing Director, Craig Kerslake.
The program aims to remove barriers for Indigenous students, providing support and mentorship while enriching diversity in architectural discussions reflective of their communities.
Liam Khan of Nguluway DesignInc
Jackson Clements Burrows Architects Paves the Way for Women in Architecture
JCB Architects actively fosters a supportive environment for future female leaders. Recently, Natalie Iannello, one of JCB Architect's Interior Designers, made a positive impact by engaging young students in exciting conversations about architecture as part of Multiplex's Jump Start program.
Through her talk with students aged 9 to 12, Natalie enthusiastically shared her journey in the field and the opportunities available to women architects. Her vibrant story encourages young girls to explore their interests in architecture and envision themselves in this dynamic profession.
Initiatives like the Jump Start program exemplify their commitment to empowering young women, showcasing the vast potential for success in the profession. By encouraging inclusivity, JCB recognises that diversity enriches all professions, including architecture and interior design.
Aspect Studios Educates Students About Responding to Big Problems Through Design
ASPECT Studios is dedicated to preparing the next generation of landscape architects, urbanists and designers to tackle the complex challenges facing urban environments. Through impactful lectures, such as the recent one by Global Design Director Sacha Coles at the University of Sydney, students learn how to understand city dynamics and engage critically with societal and environmental problems.
In his talk, Coles emphasized the importance of responding to pressing issues through public realm design. By encouraging a place-based approach, Aspect Studios helps students appreciate the unique attributes of their regions while promoting collaboration with indigenous designers, fostering inclusivity and respect for cultural contexts.
Through these educational initiatives, ASPECT Studios equips future architects with a holistic understanding that integrates economics, ecology and human behavior. Sharing this knowledge cultivates technical skills and fosters a strong sense of social and environmental responsibility, preparing students to lead transformative change in urban settings.
Encouraging Young Architects to Shine
In addition to celebrating initiatives to bring young talent into the industry, we want to recognize the 2024 AIA Young Architect Award winners who make significant contributions to participatory urban design. Their innovative and sustainable practices shape resilient urban environments and promote social justice and community engagement.
HOK Architecture and Engineering is Pioneering Sustainable Solutions for Tomorrow
As a leading force in architecture and engineering, HOK exemplifies a commitment to sustainable solutions that address the pressing challenges of our time.
Elizabeth Cox, a 2024 AIA Young Architect Award winner, is a senior associate and healthcare leader at HOK's Boston office. Focusing on creating health and wellness spaces, Cox prioritizes users' dignity and unique needs, ensuring that her designs are functional and culturally sensitive.
Ng Teng Fong General Hospital
Cox's influence extends into mentorship, empowering underrepresented groups through initiatives like the NOMA HBCU Professional Development Program and the ACE Mentor Program.
Through their innovative approaches and dedication to sustainability, HOK and leaders like Elizabeth Cox are paving the way for a future where creativity and social responsibility harmoniously intersect.
Moody Nolan Architects, Supporting Young Talent and Celebrating Innovation
At Moody Nolan Architects, the team ventures beyond the apparent, designing solutions that redefine how individuals connect with the world and one another. Their commitment to purpose-driven design aims to improve every day, every place and every life.
The 2024 AIA Young Architecture Award winner Melvalean McLemore is a shining example of the firm's mission. As a project manager at the firm, Melvalean has played a vital role in transformative projects, notably the Texas Southern University Library Learning Center. This state-of-the-art facility is designed to foster collaboration and innovation, providing students with a dynamic space that enhances their learning experience. By supporting the academic aspirations of Texas Southern University's diverse student body, Melvalean and her team at Moody Nolan illustrate the impact of purposeful design in elevating educational environments.
Texas Southern University Library Learning Centre – Source: Sam Brown
Melvalean also led the volunteer design team for the award-winning Third Space project in Houston, which envisions a self-sustaining community featuring live-work spaces for entrepreneurs, a restaurant and an art gallery.
Melvalean's work exemplifies Moody Nolan's ethos of fostering positive, thriving communities and showcases the impactful role that young architects play in shaping resilient urban environments.
The Future of Architecture is Bright
Reflecting on the importance of nurturing young talent in architecture on this World Architecture Day, we see that the future is bright.
This field has the power to drive positive change, addressing not just communities' physical needs but also their cultural, social, educational, and environmental goals. Deltek's A&E solutions play a pivotal role in this journey by connecting and automating the project lifecycle for architecture and engineering firms. Our specialized expertise helps firms of all sizes and complexities enhance productivity and maximize revenue.
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