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
Some 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.
Schedule:
April-May 2025. Sessions will cover the following topics: Being a Citizen Architect, Affordable Housing, Neighborhood Development, Legislation related to the architecture profession. Sessions will be offered in-person at the Center for Architecture and Design from 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm unless otherwise noted. Participants are encouraged to register for the Future Forward Conference in Annapolis on May 8.
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 seek sponsorship from their employer; 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 review the nomination form. Self-employed or unemployed applicants may self-nominate.
Step 3: Tuition is $100 for AIA Members/$150 for Non-Members. Invoices will be emailed to the address indicated on the application and can be paid online or by 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.
If you require financial assistance and would like to request a scholarship, please reach out to Nia Anthony at nanthony@aiabalt.com with a statement of need.
Deadline:
Completed applications and nominations are due by Friday, April 25, 2025.
Read our Testimonial from Past Graduate, Sam Lynch, AIA Here
