A Career in Architecture

Civil Engineering and Architecture © 2010 Project Lead The Way, Inc.
 Architecture

• What is Architecture?
• About Architecture
• Design Architects
• Project Architects
• Construction Managers
• Draftspersons
• Landscape Architects
 What is Architecture?
“Architecture is the thoughtful making of space.”
- Louis Kahn
 What is Architecture?
“Architecture is the imaginative blend of art and science in
the design of environments for people. People need places
to eat, work, live and play. Architects transform these needs
into concepts and then develop the concepts into building
images that can be constructed by others.”
- ARCHcareers.org
 About Architecture
Architects are licensed professionals trained in the art
and science of building design who develop the
concepts for structures and turn those concepts into
images and plans. They typically design facilities
intended for human habitation
 About Architecture
• About 1 in 5 architects is self employed.

• A license is required to serve as a practicing architect.

• Licensing involves earning a professional degree from an

NAAB approved school, at
least 3 years experience, and
passing Architect Registration
Exams.

• Employment is expected to
grow faster than other
occupations, but competition for the most prestigious jobs is
fierce.
 About Architecture
• Management structure and job
titles vary among firms.
• Smaller firms are sometimes
comprised of one architect who
fulfills all tasks.
• Larger firms work in teams.
Some common titles include
design architect, project
architect, construction
administrator, and
draftsperson.
 Design Architects
• Generally have many years of
experience
• Create the overall look and feel
of a building
• Envision the big picture and
attract clients
• May stay involved with the
entire project but not with the
finer details
Project Architects
• Make sure that the drawings are put
together correctly
• Make sure that the building can
actually be built
• Make sure the design meets codes
and zoning laws
• Make sure the design meets the
functional needs of the client
 Construction Administrators
• Oversee a structure’s
actual construction
• Work closely with the
designers and architects
• Generally spend more
time at the build site than
in the office
Draftspersons
 Landscape Architects
• Design exterior areas to be functional,
beautiful, and compatible with the natural
environment
• Design residential areas, public parks, play
areas, college campuses, shopping areas, golf
courses, and parkways
• Design the restoration of natural places
disturbed by humans such as wetlands,
stream corridors, mined areas, and forested
land
 Architecture

• What is Architecture?
• About Architecture
• Design Architects
• Project Architects
• Construction Managers
• Draftspersons
• Landscape Architects
 Image Resources
Microsoft, Inc. (n.d.). Clip art. Retrieved March 18, 2009, from
http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/clipart/default.aspx