About CivicLAB
Gain the skills to be a citizen architect.
Architects are advocates for the built environment. CivicLAB is an opportunity to learn from experts about the local, state and federal issues that directly affect architects and develop the skills to be an effective advocate. Learn how to use your skills as an architect to take on leadership roles in your community and professional life.
CivicLAB introduces architects, designers, and allied professionals to opportunities for civic engagement across the full spectrum of their careers. We invite emerging leaders to expand their role in critical issues facing our communities and the profession and to communicate and demonstrate the role of architecture in civic life.
During monthly sessions, participants learn the tools of engagement from proven leaders who have guided communities to achieve advocacy results at local and national levels. Group activities, assignments, and advocacy opportunities will illustrate how we can make a positive impact within our communities.
Time Commitment
Sessions may be offered in virtual and in-person format in 2023; from 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm. Applicants are expected to attend all sessions. Additional outside preparation may be required for some sessions.
Tentative Schedule:
February – April 2024, for a total of four sessions. Sessions will cover the following topics: Being a Citizen Architect, Urban Infrastructure, Local and State Sustainability & Planning, and Makers Spaces. Sessions will be offered in-person in 2024; from 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm.
Selection Process
While tailored to AIA Emerging Professionals (Associate AIA or AIA members within their first 10 years of licensure) participation in CivicLAB is open to all design professionals and limited to a maximum of 20 participants. Participants will be selected on the basis of a nomination and statement of interest. Criteria for acceptance to the program will include expressed interest in becoming involved in community advocacy or prior involvement in community organizations. Participants are encouraged to get sponsored by their employee with a nomination statement; however, scholarships will be available for members who need financial assistance or are in school. Applicants may self-nominate.
Tuition and Funding
Tuition is $100 for AIA Members/$150 for Non-Members. Scholarships are available to participants for whom funding is a challenge. Tuition is due after applicants are selected for the program and prior to the first session in February.
How to Apply
Step 1: Complete the application
Step 2: Have your employer or another reference complete the nomination form. Self-employed or unemployed applicants may self-nominate. Nomination forms must be received by January 16.
Step 3: Pay the application fee by sending a check to:
AIA Baltimore
The Center for Architecture and Design
One Charles Center
100 N. Charles Street
Suite P-101
Baltimore, MD 21201
Tuition is $100 for AIA Members/$150 for Non-Members. Payment can also be taken over the phone by emailing Tess Madera at tmadera@aiabalt.com
If you require financial assistance and would like to request a scholarship, please reach out to Tess Madera at tmadera@aiabalt.com with a statement of need.
Deadline:
Completed applications and nominations are due by Wednesday, January 16, 2024.
Read our Testimonial from Past Graduate, Sam Lynch, AIA Here
