Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Advocates for Architectural Excellence in Connecticut
AIA Connecticut serves as a vital resource for architects and the public, representing over 1,500 members including architects, designers, students, and professionals in related fields. We are committed to advancing the architectural profession through advocacy, education, and fostering design excellence while prioritizing the quality of the built and natural environments. Our organization operates under the highest standards of practice and a code of ethics, driven by a dedicated Board of Directors and staff. We provide educational programs, advocacy initiatives, and networking opportunities to support professional growth and innovation in architecture. Through committees and knowledge communities, we address critical issues such as sustainability, equity, and building regulations.Our strategic plan focuses on enhancing membership engagement, promoting public awareness of architecture, and ensuring organizational sustainability. We advocate for policies that support the profession and address societal challenges like climate change and affordable housing. Our team works tirelessly to connect members with resources, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. By organizing events, awards, and public programs, we celebrate design excellence and inspire future generations of architects. Our mission is to empower architects to lead in service to society while shaping a more equitable and resilient built environment.
Services
Advocacy Programs
Professional Development
Design Awards
Networking Events
Public Awareness Campaigns
Details
- Year established: 1902
Highlights and features
- We advocate for architects on critical issues like climate action and affordable housing.
- Our educational programs address emerging trends and technologies in architectural practice.
- We recognize design excellence through prestigious awards and public outreach initiatives.
- Our committees provide specialized resources for small firms, women in architecture, and emerging professionals.
- We connect members with networking opportunities and mentorship programs.
What people say
Advocacy leadership
Educational value
Design recognition
Networking opportunities
Policy influence
Services
Advocacy Programs
We advocate for architects on legislative and regulatory issues impacting the profession. Our initiatives focus on building codes, climate action, affordable housing, and professional licensing. Through partnerships with government agencies and national organizations, we ensure architects' voices shape policy decisions affecting the built environment.
Professional Development
Our programs support architects' career advancement through continuing education, mentorship, and leadership training. We offer workshops on emerging technologies, practice management, and sustainable design. These resources help professionals stay current with industry trends and maintain licensure requirements.
Design Awards
We celebrate architectural excellence through annual awards recognizing innovative projects and professionals. Categories include design, sustainability, and community impact. These awards highlight Connecticut's architectural achievements and inspire industry-wide excellence through public exhibitions and media coverage.
Networking Events
Our events create opportunities for architects to connect with peers and allied professionals. Programs include design presentations, committee meetings, and social gatherings. These interactions foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and business development within Connecticut's architectural community.
Public Awareness Campaigns
We promote architecture's value through public programs and educational initiatives. Our K-12 outreach introduces students to architectural careers, while public events showcase exemplary projects. These efforts increase understanding of architecture's role in creating sustainable, equitable communities.
People
Marc G. Andre
2025 President
Architect and founder of Marc G. Andre Architects with extensive experience in sustainable design and community-focused projects. Actively involved in advancing architectural education and professional standards.
Gina Calabro
Executive Director/CEO
Oversees AIA Connecticut's operations with a focus on strategic planning and member engagement. Previously served as Honorary AIA member and advocate for architectural policy initiatives.
Daniel Horowitz
2025 Co-Chair, Committee on Design
Architect and educator at University of Hartford specializing in design innovation. Leads initiatives promoting architectural excellence through educational programs and design critiques.
Jennifer Huestis
Co-Chair, Women in Architecture
Principal at Huestis-Tucker Architects with expertise in sustainable residential design. Champions gender equity in architecture through mentorship programs and leadership development.
Joel Whitten
Program Manager
Manages educational programs and committee operations with focus on emerging technologies and professional practice. Coordinates advocacy efforts and event planning for member engagement.
Questions
What services does AIA Connecticut provide for architects?
We offer advocacy, professional development, design awards, networking events, and public outreach programs to support Connecticut's architectural community.
How can I become a member?
Visit our website to explore membership categories and benefits. Complete the online application to join AIA Connecticut's professional network.
What advocacy issues do you focus on?
We prioritize building codes, climate action, affordable housing, and professional licensing policies affecting Connecticut architects and the built environment.
Do you offer continuing education credits?
Yes, we provide approved programs for architects' continuing education requirements through workshops, seminars, and online resources.
How are design awards determined?
An independent jury evaluates submissions based on design excellence, innovation, sustainability, and community impact across multiple award categories.
What public programs do you organize?
Our public initiatives include architectural tours, K-12 outreach, open house events, and exhibitions showcasing Connecticut's architectural heritage and innovation.
