Seriously Helpful Architecture Career Goals that Actually Stick!
A Step-by-Step Guide to Defining and Achieving Your Architecture Career Goals!
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The new year is just around the corner (literally), and it’s bringing a fresh opportunity to map out your architecture career goals! Whether you’re a student, a recent graduate, an intern architect, or even an established architect, goal setting can help you grow, stay laser focused, and help you making meaningful strides in your career.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to craft a powerful goal-setting strategy tailored to the unique demands (and boy are they) of the architecture profession.
From defining your vision to implementing actionable steps, this post will be sure to help put you on the right track all year long!
This post is all about setting seriously helpful architecture career goals for the new year!
Architecture Career Goals
1. Why Setting Architecture Career Goals Matters
Setting goals isn’t just about making resolutions; it’s about giving yourself clarity, developing skills you may or may not have, and achieving a sense of accomplishment at the end. Make no mistake, the field of architecture is a demanding one, and it’s easy to get caught up in the rush of deadlines and projects without a clear vision.
That being said, remember that everything you’re about to read are tips that I think are helpful. Be kind to yourself and set goals that are realistic and attainable to avoid disappointment. Things don’t always go according to plan, so give yourself some wiggle room.
Clarity and focus
Knowing your goals prevents you from feeling overwhelmed and gives you a focal point to keep you motivated.
skill and career development
Setting concrete goals will help you identify specific skills you need to improve on, such as BIM proficiency (i.e.: REVIT!), design techniques, time management, or even leadership skills.
Increased Motivation and accountability
Having clear goals will also make you more likely to commit and follow through, giving you a sense of accountability that’s extremely important in a fast-paced profession like architecture. If you have a friend who is also pursuing architecture as a career, I would strongly recommend you lean on each other for support. It’s much easier that way! Having a buddy to study, and intern with was a game changer.
2. Identifying Your Core Career Aspirations
In order to create clear architecture career goals, you need to identify and understand what truly matters to you as a person, student, intern, or architect. Start by reflecting on some long-term visions: where do you see yourself in five, ten, or more years? Are you interested in leading a sustainable architecture practice? Do you even want to run a practice? Maybe you’re into urban planning, or heritage conservation. These are all questions that will help you understand the goals you might want to achieve.
If all of this sounds overwhelming and you’re at the “Honestly, I don’t have a CLUE about what kind of architect I want to be. What’s even out there?!” then I would highly recommend you read my Industry Insiders post about 5 Must Know Types of Architecture Jobs.
Here are some areas to consider when clarifying your aspirations:
Licensure and certifications
For most people, getting licensed is the main goal. Secondary to that are any major certifications such as LEED or PMP.
Here’s a list of certifications you’re likely to come across during your architectural career:
- Licensing Examination: In the US it’s the AREs and in Canada it’s the EXACs.
- LEED Accreditation: Focuses on green building practices and sustainability (Pro Tip: If you’re a student you can get often get a discount for the LEED Associate program)
- Building Information Modeling (BIM) Certification: Validates proficiency in BIM software and methodologies
- Project Management Professional (PMP): Demonstrates project management skills applicable to architecture (and other fields)
- Certified Construction Manager (CCM): For those interested in construction management.
- Architectural Technology Certification: Focuses on technical aspects of architecture and construction.
- Etc.
skill development
When it comes to skill development you need to ask yourself: “Do I need to strengthen any software skills? What about technical design skills? Client relationship skills?
Here’s a list of skills you might want to work and add to your architecture career goals:
- Design Skills: Proficiency in architectural design and concept.
- Technical Drawing: Ability to create and interpret architectural drawings.
- BIM Proficiency: Knowledge of software like Revit, AutoCAD, etc.
- Sustainable Practices: Understanding of green building techniques and materials.
- Project Management: Skills in planning, executing, and overseeing architectural projects.
- Communications Skills: Ability to articulate ideas clearly to clients, colleagues, and stakeholders.
- Critical Thinking: Capacity to solve complex problems and make informed decisions.
- Collaboration: Working effectively with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, contractors, and clients.
professional role
Ask yourself where you might see yourself in the future. Do you see yourself in a particular position of having certain responsibilities? Don’t get TOO hung up on this one, especially as a student or new intern, the first few years of your academic life and career journey will be all about learning what you like and what you don’t like.
Here’s a list of professional roles you might think about pursuing:
- Design Architect: Responsible for designing buildings and structures, ensuring functionality and aesthetics. NOTE: This is the typical route everyone thinks they’re going to go down when in design school. There’s a WHOLE world out there so if you feel like you’re not the best designer, that doesn’t mean you can’t be an incredible architect.
- Project Architect: Oversees a project from design to construction and coordinates various teams (internal and external).
- Urban Planner: Works on land use and development projects to create sustainable urban environments. NOTE: To become an urban planner, you need different prerequisites and have to write a different set of exams.
- Landscape Architect: Designs outdoor public areas, landmarks, and structures.
- Interior Architect/Designer: Specializes in designing interior spaces, focusing on aesthetics and functionality. NOTE: If you want to be a licensed interior designer, you need to pass a different set of exams. You can also be an architect that does interiors (a lot of residential architects also design the interior of a project).
- Construction Manager: Manages the construction process, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget. Typically, your contractor will have managers and if you’re an architect you would be considered a Site Architect.
3. Breaking Down Goals into Achievable Steps (Using SMART Goals)
smart goal framework
Big dreams are great, but they can feel overwhelming without a plan. That’s where the SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) goal framework comes in. It helps break down large objectives into small, manageable steps that you can tackle progressively.
EXAMPLE OF A SMART GOAL – LEED GREEN ASSOCIATE
Let’s use getting your LEED Green Associate certification as an example; your goal would be: “Complete my LEED Green Associate certification by Q3 to improve my qualifications for sustainable projects.”. Now, you don’t have to use words like Q3 (which stands for the third quarter of the year), you could simple say “by july” and work backwards. The SMART categories for this example would be as follows:
- Specific: Complete an online course in sustainable architecture to enhance knowledge of green building practices.
- Measurable: Achieve a passing score on all course assessments and receive a certificate of completion.
- Achievable: Dedicate at least 4 hours per week to coursework.
- Relevant: This goal aligns with my aspiration to work on eco-friendly projects and obtain LEED accreditation.
- Time-Bound: Complete the course within three months.
actionable steps – leed green associate example
- Research certification/goal requirements (January)
- Sign up for an accredited LEED course (February)
- Dedicate 4 hours a week for studying (March-June)
- Schedule the exam (July)
Following this framework lets you focus on the task at hand without feeling overwhelmed, and it makes tracking progress easier. I followed a similar breakdown while studying for my EXACs, and it took away the overwhelming feeling of “What do I study next?!”.
Other example of a smart goal – Networking and professional growth
Another area in which you might have goals is networking and professional growth. How do you get out there and actually get to know people so that they know who you are? This applies for students, interns, or even architects just starting a practice.
- Specific: Attend three industry conferences or workshops related to architecture and sustainability.
- Measurable: Collect at least 10 business cards and make a follow-up contact with each connection. An alternative would be adding 10 connections on LinkedIn
- Achievable: Research and register for conferences that fit within my budget and schedule.
- Relevant: Expanding my network will provide opportunities for mentorship and potential job leads in sustainable design.
- Time-Bound: Attend these events by the end of the year.
Actionable steps – Networking and professional growth example
- Research and register for relevant architectural conferences or workshops (1-2 weeks)
- Prepare networking materials but creating or updating business cards or having an idea of your background and aspirations to effectively introduce yourself. Oftentimes being yourself and showing what you’re passionate about will do that job (1 week)
- Engage at events by attending conferences, arrive early to network with others in the field, participate in discussions and exchange business cards or contact info with attendees and speakers (event dates)
- If you made an interesting connection, send a follow up to those people and connect on a platform like LinkedIn or even give their firm a follow on Instagram if they have an account!
Architecture Career Goals Planner by The Cozy Urbanite
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The shop is starting strong with the Architecture Career Goals Planner, a comprehensive digital resource designed to help you set, track, and achieve your professional aspirations. Whether you’re a student navigating your first internship or a seasoned architect looking to take your career to the next level, our shop is here to support your growth.
Don’t want to commit to the full Architecture Career Goals Planner? Download the ENTIRE goal setting section below to check it out!
4. Adapting to Industry Trends and Skill Requirements
current trends in architecture
The industry is constantly shifting and is often driven by advancements in technology, sustainability demands, and evolving societal needs. The current trends emphasize eco-friendly design, integrating renewable materials, and energy-efficient practices.
Another notable trend would be the rise of remote work. It has influenced the design of adaptable spaces that can accommodate a diverse function and promote collaboration.
Here are some more examples:
- Biophilic Design
- Modular and Prefabricated Construction
- Resilient Design
- Adaptive Reuse
- Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality
- The Use of AI
- Diversity and Inclusion
goal adjustments
It’s important to constantly reassess whether your architecture career goals align with the industry AND what you might want to do. This year, maybe you’re dead set on becoming the best project manager out there, but maybe next year you’ll realize you actually really like construction and might want to adjust your goals to help you become a better site architect. This is 100% OK! Just like projects, our careers are part of an iterative process.
professional development and competitiveness
In a competitive job market, continuous professional development is key to maintaining an edge in the architecture industry (fun fact: continued education is actually mandatory in most – if not all – jurisdictions once you’re licensed). Engaging in lifelong learning enables you to refine your skills and stay informed about the latest industry standards and technologies.
Being an active participant in professional organizations can provide valuable resources and connections, fostering relationships that may lead to job opportunities or collaborative projects. By prioritizing your professional growth, you not only own careers but also contribute to the advancement of the profession as a whole, ensuring they are well-equipped to tackle future challenges and opportunities in the ever-evolving architectural landscape.
5. Finding Mentors and Networking Opportunities
mentorship for accelerated growth
Mentorship plays a crucial role in the professional development of a young intern or architect, providing guidance, support, and invaluable industry insights that can accelerate career growth. A mentor can share their experiences, helping you navigate challenges and make informed decisions about your career paths. They can also introduce you to a wider professional network, opening doors to new opportunities and collaborations.
Beyond technical skills, mentors often impart essential soft skills, such as communication and leadership, which are unbelievably important for this profession. Engaging in a mentorship relationship can lead to a deeper understanding of the industry, greater confidence in one’s abilities, and a clearer vision for achieving long-term career goals!
finding a mentor
When looking for the right mentor, you’ll require intentionality and effort. Start by identifying professionals whose careers you admire or who work in areas of architecture that interest you, such as sustainable design, residential architecture, project management, etc. Reach out through networking events, professional associations, or social media platforms like LinkedIn, where you can express your admiration for their work and interest in learning from them.
Remember that you can have more than one mentor, and that mentorship shows itself in many forms. Having a mentor while you’re an intern is actually a requirement in some jurisdictions – the Ontario Association of Architects (OAA) has this requirement.
Here are several examples of potential mentors in the field, each one providing a unique perspective and guidance based on their experiences:
- An architect
- Professor or Educator
- Specialized Designer
- Project Manager
- Urban Planner
- Interior Designer
- Industry Leader or Influencer
- Former Colleague or Supervisor
- Peer Mentor
networking goals
Setting clear networking goals is essential for maximizing opportunities and building meaningful professional relationships in the architecture field. Start by identifying specific events you plan to attend, such as industry conferences, workshops, or local meetups, and establish a target for the number of new connections you want to make at each event.
Additionally, consider reaching out to peers and professionals within your existing network to arrange informational interviews or coffee dates, aiming to strengthen those relationships. Tracking your progress, such as the number of business cards collected or follow-up emails sent, can provide motivation and accountability. By approaching networking with intentional goals, architects can cultivate a robust network that enhances their career development and opens doors to collaborative opportunities.
6. Balancing Professional Architecture Career Goals with Personal Well-Being
importance of work-life balance
Achieving a healthy work-life balance is critical for long-term success and personal fulfillment in this profession. The demands of the industry can often lead to long hours and high-pressure situations, making it easy to let work overshadow personal life.
Prioritizing a good work-life balance will not only enhances your overall well-being but will also foster creativity and productivity in your role. When architects allocate time for personal interests, family, and self-care, they recharge their minds and bodies, leading to improved focus and innovative thinking in their projects. Recognizing that a fulfilling personal life contributes to professional success is vital for architects seeking sustainable careers in a demanding field.
I think it’s important to note that design school is intense and I’m not going to lie to you and say that your last all-nighter was during school. You MAY find yourself doing a few of them during your internship, but I strongly recommend you do everything you can to avoid it. Talk to your supervisor if your workload is too heavy, the last thing you need is to burnout.
setting boundaries
Establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life is essential for maintaining a balanced lifestyle. You can start by defining specific work hours and committing to them, which includes resisting the temptation to check emails or take calls outside of these hours. I am 100% guilty of doing this (more than I’d like to), so if you trip up, don’t beat yourself up. We all do it at some point, just do your best to have time to yourself.
Communicating these boundaries with your supervisor, colleagues, and clients helps set expectations and fosters a culture of respect for personal time. By proactively setting and maintaining boundaries, you can protect your mental health and ensure that you have the energy and focus needed to excel in your career and achieve the architecture career goals you’ve set out for yourself.
burnout prevention
Bad news, burnout is a pervasive issue in the architecture industry, often resulting from prolonged stress, overwhelming workloads, and insufficient self-care. To prevent burnout, it’s essential for you to recognize the early signs, such as fatigue, irritability, and a lack of enthusiasm for your work. Implementing regular self-care practices—such as exercise, mindfulness, and engaging in hobbies—can significantly mitigate stress levels and promote emotional resilience.
Seeking support from colleagues, friends, or professional networks can provide a sense of community and shared understanding of the challenges faced in the field. By prioritizing well-being and actively working to prevent burnout, architects can sustain their passion for their work and maintain their performance in a demanding industry.
Pro tip: if you have a supervisor who does not respect your boundaries or constantly makes you feel uncomfortable or bad for having them, it’s time you look for another job. Young architects, engineers, doctors, and lawyers have historically been subjected to less than great working conditions and the new generation needs to change that.
Fortunately, the architecture profession has significantly improved, and well-being is often taken seriously within an office. If ever you do find yourself with a supervisor who doesn’t, go somewhere where you will be valued and your boundaries respected. Period.
This post was all about the best way to set your architectural career goals!
Setting architecture career goals is about creating a roadmap for your professional journey. By identifying what matters, breaking down goals into manageable steps, staying adaptable to industry trends, building connections, and maintaining balance, you’re well on your way to a successful, fulfilling year.
Remember, these goals aren’t set in stone. As you progress, revisit them, celebrate milestones, and adjust as needed. Let this year be the year you take charge of your career path and bring your architectural dreams to life!
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