Emerging Professionals Committee
Mission Statement
The AIA Memphis Emerging Professionals Committee represents and supports individuals across the professional pipeline, including architecture students, Associate AIA members pursuing licensure, newly licensed architects, and professionals within their first ten years of practice.
Driven by energy, imagination, and the power of design, the committee brings these groups together to foster the next generation of architects and designers. Whether seeking relaxed social connection or deeper engagement through working groups and professional development, the Emerging Professionals Committee is a strong place to begin. Together, we aim to amplify emerging voices and shape a more resilient future for our profession, our city, and the communities we serve.
what happens here
→ AXP, ARE, Post ARE and Knowledge Resources
→ Professional Development Workshops
→ The Perspective Collective Series (tours, dialogues, community)
REQUIREMENTS
Meetings: Quarterly at 5:30 PM
Location: TBD
Time Commitment: 2 Hrs at End of Month +/- 1 Hr Additional Committee Time
Introducing the Faces Guiding Emerging Professionals in 2026
Jacob Turner
assoc. aia, csi
committee chair
LRK, INC
FELIPE VERA
AIA, ULI
assistant chair
Nickson General
Lily Montague
ASSOC. AIA
assistant chair
4f Design
Dakota Phelps
assoc. aia
MARKETING + PR chair
Self + Tucker Architects
Hussein Dbouk
assoc. aia
digital media chair
ETFC, INC
Nina Tsolakis
ASSOC. AIA
Committee Member
LRK, INC
Navigating the Road to Licensure
Education
Most states require candidates to earn a professional architecture degree, such as a Bachelor or Master of Architecture that is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). Across the United States and Canada, there are dozens of accredited architecture programs available. Each program is re-evaluated for accreditation in varying periods. To verify whether a degree program is accredited or check the status of its accreditation, review the directory maintained by NAAB or NCARB.
Experience
Licensure candidates are also required to gain professional experience under the supervision of a licensed architect. This experience provides valuable exposure to the profession while allowing candidates to complete hours through the Architectural Experience Program (AXP). The American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) both provide resources to support candidates throughout the process.
Examination
In addition to education and experience requirements, candidates must successfully complete the Architect Registration Examination (ARE). The ARE 5.0 is composed of six exams designed to assess knowledge and competency across various areas of architectural practice. Resources and study tools are available to help candidates prepare for the exam.
Licensure
After completing the required experience and passing the ARE, candidates may apply for licensure through their state licensing board. Because licensure is regulated by individual jurisdictions, requirements may vary by state. Architects also have the ability to pursue reciprocal licensure in multiple states. Most jurisdictions require continuing education credits to maintain and renew an active license.
International Candidates
International candidates interested in pursuing licensure in the United States should visit the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) website for guidance on available pathways and requirements.
Preparing for the ARE
After you have set up your NCARB record, make sure to take full advantage of the resources provided on the NCARB website to help you prepare for your exams! Some of the key items are listed below:
Third Party Resources + Study Materials
Below is a non-exhaustive list of third-party resources and study materials. These resources are not sponsored or endorsed by AIA Memphis.
For additional information regarding resources and study groups, reach out to any of the Emerging Professionals (EP) Committee Chairs or contact justin@aiamemphis.org for questions and inquiries.
2026 Schedule + Upcoming Events
Join us for curated monthly events for members and interns to explore Memphis, expanding perspectives on West TN, showcasing why it’s a place worth staying, building, and believing in. ALL AIA Members are encouraged to attend and foster EP’s into launching a career in a region they can truly make a difference.
Aligned with AIA’s mission, this initiative promotes architecture, shapes the future of our profession, and supports future leaders and community growth.