RK Stewart, FAIA

AIA experience

• National Vice President, 2004
• IDP Coordinating Committee Co-Chair 2004–05
• Specialty Certification Task Force Chair, 2004
• Regional Director, 2000–03
• AIA California Council, President 2000
• AIA San Francisco, President 1996

Practice experience

• Gensler, Principal
• Heller Manus Architects
• Skidmore, Owings & Merrill
• Mississippi State School of Architecture
• Louisiana State School of Architecture

Related experience

• AIAS Studio Culture Task Force, 2003–04
• NCARB, Reciprocity Impediments Task Force, 2002–04
• California Architects Board, Professional Qualifications Committee, 1995–Present
• Comprehensive IDP Task Force Chair, 2003
• IDP Implementation Task Force, 2002–Present
• Post Licensure Competency Task Force, 2001

Registration

• Michigan
• California
• NCARB

Education

• Universities of Michigan and Kansas

At its heart, the AIA’s mission is simple: Advance the profession and make it of ever-increasing value to society. The AIA has delivered on that mission throughout its history. With the financial crisis behind us, the Board is looking forward by debating policies and strategies important to the profession’s future. While this is the most important thing the Board can do for you, to be effective, the Board must do two things. First, the Board must be better listeners on issues important to members. We have great components; the AIA should give them tools so they can respond successfully to local challenges. Second, the connection between Board Policy and AIA activities must be more direct. We, volunteer leaders and staff alike, must be accountable to the AIA members and society to achieve the future we envision.

This year I have the privilege of supporting the architects who will follow us. Emerging Professionals are the fastest growing segment within the AIA. The 2002 Intern & Career Survey clearly indicates they are committed and striving to overcome many obstacles to join the profession. Issues of mentorship, internship, academia, and professional development are getting much-needed attention in a Board Discussion Group, committees, and task forces. Building on existing structures and tools, we must do all that we can to improve the road from school to licensure.

Solutions for these complex issues will take considerable time and energy. Convincing our collateral organizations to adopt them may take even more. It’s been a privilege to serve the AIA and society at local, regional, and national components. I would be honored to have your support and vote to continue serving as your vice president and complete the work I have begun this year toward achieving our collective vision of the profession.

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