AJA Architecture and Planning has announced the launch of its innovative Professional Development Program, aimed at nurturing emerging talents in the architecture and design industry while actively engaging with the local community. Rooted in a passion for mentorship and guided by a commitment to excellence, this program represents a significant milestone in the firm’s ongoing dedication to fostering the growth and success of future designers.
AJA has recognized the emerging professional’s desire to understand their career path. In 2018, the American Institute of Architects honored the firm with the Fostering Emerging Professionals Award. So much has changed since then. AJA has ramped up its entire approach to professional development to extend beyond its staff to the entire community.
“This recognition from the industry’s premier organization validates our mission and inspires us to continue nurturing the next generation of design leaders,” said Andrew Allison, a principal in the firm.
“Our program was built on the paradigm of ‘learn it, improve it, teach it,’ a philosophy instilled in me by my mentors,” he added. “We have always been committed to developing the skills of our team members, and started to think, why stop there? We decided to extend our program to local high school and college level students interested in the field of architecture, engineering, design, and construction management.”
The program encompasses various initiatives tailored to different stages of professional development:
High School Engagement: Through shadowing AJA helps expose high school students to the world of architecture and engineering, providing valuable insights into potential career paths and college options. This year, AJA has partnered with Hudson Valley Community College as a part of the Smart Scholars Early College High School Program.
“In this area, we’re fortunate to have high schools that have invested in robust programs such as the Smart Scholars ECHS program. To further engage our youth, we’re dedicated to providing them exposure to career opportunities,” Allison noted.
College Internships: AJA’s internship program offers college students hands-on experience aligned with their academic curriculum, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications within the firm. Students in design, architecture, engineering, and construction management from schools including Ithaca College, Penn State: College of Engineering, The University of Oregon: College of Design, Columbia University, Alfred State: College of Technology, and Hudson Valley Community College have interned, and some turned into full-time employees.
Professional Staff Development: The innovative Professional Development Program includes collaborative workshops designed to empower staff members in shaping their personal career trajectories. The firm cultivates an environment tailored to nurture and support individual professional growth. Individuals are paired with seasoned mentors within the firm to guide their development and elevate the overall practice through ongoing check-ins and feedback sessions throughout the year. This is not your standard yearly review program; it’s a dynamic initiative born from recognizing the evolving needs of our recently graduated professionals.
“We’re committed to facilitating their career progression, and this program is our response to that commitment.” said Allison.
Two of the firm’s more recently hired team members are benefiting from the Professional Development Program.
Architectural Designer Patrick Kniskern, the senior draftsman and BIM manager, is “a forward-thinking member of the team who is always looking for ways to build his vision into reality,” said Allison. “From sketches to 3D renderings, schematic to construction drawings, Patrick has his hands on every project. During the design and development phases, his attention to detail accurately reflects the goals of each project while also enhancing the client’s ability to visualize their final build.
Kniskern earned an Associate of Science in Architectural Technology degree from Hudson Valley Community College in 2016. He is working on his Bachelor of Architecture degree from the New York Institute of Technology.
Farideh Nazari is the newest addition to the team. According to Allison, “She seamlessly integrates efficiency and proficiency into her work, embodying a powerhouse of productivity within our team. Her swift delivery of detailed drawings, renderings, and models, consistently surpasses expectations, often completing tasks ahead of schedule. A quick learner with a thirst for knowledge, Farideh stays at the forefront of our software advancements, demonstrating a relentless drive to evolve her skills and adapt to changes.”
Nazari received her Computer Aided Drafting Certificate in 2023 and is working towards her Associate of Science in Architectural Technology from Hudson Valley Community College.