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Job outlook for design architects in the United States
Design architect job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected design architect job growth rate is 3% from 2018-2028.
About 3,300 new jobs for design architects are projected over the next decade.
Design architect salaries have increased 7% for design architects in the last 5 years.
There are over 18,527 design architects currently employed in the United States.
There are 111,505 active design architect job openings in the US.
The average design architect salary is $89,139.
Are design architect jobs in demand?
Design architect job and salary trends over time
Design architect jobs over time
Design architect job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 18,527 | 0.01% |
| 2020 | 19,173 | 0.01% |
| 2019 | 19,533 | 0.01% |
| 2018 | 19,258 | 0.01% |
| 2017 | 19,027 | 0.01% |
Average design architect salary over time
Design architect salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $89,139 | $42.86 | +1.9% |
| 2024 | $87,439 | $42.04 | +1.7% |
| 2023 | $85,956 | $41.32 | +1.2% |
| 2022 | $84,970 | $40.85 | +2.0% |
| 2021 | $83,303 | $40.05 | +1.1% |
Design architect jobs by state
Most common states for design architects
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 262 | 38% |
| 2 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 186 | 25% |
| 3 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 1,299 | 18% |
| 4 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 1,085 | 18% |
| 5 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 943 | 17% |
| 6 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 594 | 17% |
| 7 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 228 | 17% |
| 8 | Delaware | 961,939 | 165 | 17% |
| 9 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 899 | 16% |
| 10 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 163 | 16% |
| 11 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 1,964 | 15% |
| 12 | Georgia | 10,429,379 | 1,595 | 15% |
| 13 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 1,510 | 15% |
| 14 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 1,309 | 15% |
| 15 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 85 | 15% |
| 16 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 241 | 14% |
| 17 | Alaska | 739,795 | 105 | 14% |
| 18 | Texas | 28,304,596 | 3,754 | 13% |
| 19 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 945 | 13% |
| 20 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 869 | 13% |
Most common cities for design architects
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Annapolis | 2 | 5% | $89,063 |
| 2 | Frankfort | 1 | 4% | $64,052 |
| 3 | Dover | 1 | 3% | $71,578 |
| 4 | Topeka | 2 | 2% | $85,803 |
| 5 | Cambridge | 1 | 1% | $97,770 |
| 6 | Grand Rapids | 1 | 1% | $89,085 |
| 7 | Hartford | 1 | 1% | $78,695 |
| 8 | Phoenix | 3 | 0% | $87,324 |
| 9 | San Jose | 3 | 0% | $103,074 |
| 10 | Washington | 3 | 0% | $94,045 |
| 11 | Atlanta | 2 | 0% | $81,389 |
| 12 | Baltimore | 2 | 0% | $89,071 |
| 13 | Denver | 2 | 0% | $91,909 |
| 14 | Baton Rouge | 1 | 0% | $92,832 |
| 15 | Boston | 1 | 0% | $97,830 |
| 16 | Des Moines | 1 | 0% | $77,246 |
| 17 | Fremont | 1 | 0% | $103,312 |
Design Architect job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of design architect experts
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
University of Florida
University of Nevada - Las Vegas
SUNY at Buffalo
University of Nevada - Las Vegas
University of Oregon
University Of Nevada, Las Vegas
University of Idaho
Temple University
University of New Mexico
Arizona State University
Dunwoody College of Technology
Syracuse University
University of Arizona
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
The Catholic University of America
Dr. Steven Van Dessel Ph.D. Assoc. AIA
Associate Professor, Director Architectural Engineering ProgramWorcester Polytechnic Institute
Architectural Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Design Architect?
Dr. Steven Van Dessel Ph.D. Assoc. AIA: Employers always stress the importance of students knowing the fundamentals of engineering and the integration of engineering fundamentals with architectural design. Our program is quite unique in this respect as we are the only degree program in the country where students can earn an architectural engineering degree that is ABET accredited (they can get their PE) - and then also can gain their NAAB accredited architecture degree with one additional year (allowing them to also become architects). Knowledge of building information modeling is required, and I would think that AI at some point will also play a role when combined with advanced surveying technologies.
What Design Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Steven Van Dessel Ph.D. Assoc. AIA: We typically advise our student to pursue internship as soon as the summer after sophomore year so they can get experience in different sub-areas of architectural engineering that would allow them to get a better understanding of the careers they could pursue with their degree. This typically results in an offer for full employment early in senior year – at least for our students
What will help Design Architects increase their earning potential?
Dr. Steven Van Dessel Ph.D. Assoc. AIA: Starting salary is something they can/should consider – but it is often better for recent graduates to understand the growth potential with a particular employer/firm and understand what other benefits exist. We tell them to ask questions about the typical promotion steps within an organization, for example. Students that have taken the FE exam should highlight that – and ask questions in the interview about what mentoring there is within a firm to take the PE exam – it shows a positive level of professional attitude. Our students work for architects, engineering consultancy, contractors, etc. I think Bankrate listed AE as the most rewarding degree a few years ago – and one of the items listed was the diversity of office and fieldwork that makes employment enjoyable (i.e. not stuck in their office all week)
What general advice would you give to a Design Architect?
Rebecca Dolgas: 2. The ability to implement VR, AR, and AI capabilities. Clients are coming to expect photorealistic renderings and to be able to walk through their space virtually. Having the skill set to implement these tools will be crucial in keeping clients informed and pleased with your work.
What Design Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Rebecca Dolgas: 3. Be aware of your strengths and don't be afraid to negotiate. If you have multi-faceted skillsets make sure they are known. For example if you do well maintaining your own social media make a point that you would like to assist with marketing in a smaller firm. A great Marywood specific example is how closely interiors and architecture learn together. Being able to have a collaborative spirit and bring both disciplines together can be invaluable. If you can show your interdisciplinary skill set, it will make you more valuable and thus able to negotiate for a better salary.
What will help Design Architects increase their earning potential?
Rebecca Dolgas: 1. Pay attention to firm culture and benefits. You will be working long hours and closely with your team, you want to make sure these are people you could see yourself being comfortable around. In particular when it comes to mistakes. Most people take a little bit to adjust to their job. The first few months will be hard and you WILL mess up, that's okay just make sure that you are working for and with people who will help you to make corrections and continue to grow. Along the lines of growth, see what support systems they have for licensure. Testing is a time consuming and expensive process and many firms will help to cover these costs and the required time off, just be sure to ask.
Heath Pickerill PhD
Assistant Teaching ProfessorMissouri University of Science and Technology
Architectural Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Design Architect?
Heath Pickerill PhD: Explore various career choices within the field of architectural engineering during your time in school through internships and/or co-ops, which provide hands-on learning and insight into the countless career opportunities within the field.
What Design Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Heath Pickerill PhD: Being competent in CAD software, especially 3D modeling such as Revit, as well as demonstrating strong project management skills, which can be honed through leadership opportunities in professional organizations and design teams. Graduates should also understand the ethical implications and limitations of AI software in the production of written documents and basic design solutions.
What will help Design Architects increase their earning potential?
Heath Pickerill PhD: By boosting your resume through participation in professional organizations and design teams within the field, as well as diverse work experience with on-the-job training through internships and co-ops.
What general advice would you give to a Design Architect?
Paul Pettigrew AIA, NCARB, MIT M.Arch ʼ88: I think it’s a great time to be an architect. When numbers like close to 40% of the earth’s global carbon emissions are related to buildings being torn down, buildings being built, and operation of buildings, there’s no doubt that architects will be key players in future efforts to sustain the long term health of planet earth.
What Design Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Paul Pettigrew AIA, NCARB, MIT M.Arch ʼ88: Adaptability, the ability and desire to constantly learn new tools, techniques, business practices, and construction technologies/methodologies. The architecture profession has changed dramatically since the introduction of computers into practice, and all indications are that architectural practice will continue to change as computers, fabrication machines that talk to and work with computers, and technologies related to issues of sustainability, continue to adapt to the economics, business, practice, and significance of the architecture profession.
What will help Design Architects increase their earning potential?
Paul Pettigrew AIA, NCARB, MIT M.Arch ʼ88: Salary isn’t the whole story. Recent graduates need to take into account not only salary, but housing costs, and living expenses. The salary of a young architect will go farther in Chicago than it will in New York, Boston, or San Francisco. Cities with more extensive public transportation systems might offer recent graduates the option of not owning a car which could be a significant cost savings when you factor in car purchase cost, gas, parking, insurance, and maintenance.
What general advice would you give to a Design Architect?
Martin Gold FAIA: The most widespread complaint from people in the field is that it consumes ones attention, requires long hours, and relative to other professions, such as medicine, law, accounting, or engineering, the pay is lower on a per hour basis. On the other hand, architecture is more of an art than other professions and offers opportunities for creative people to have prosperous careers. The famous French architect Le Corbusier would say, architecture is a way of life.
What Design Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Martin Gold FAIA: The economy is historically dynamic and the field of architecture generally follows the economy so there are highs and lows. That said, there is always work in urban planning, historic preservation, adaptive reuse of buildings, and the need for new buildings. At the time of this writing, there is a trend to transform office buildings into residential uses as people work remotely much more often. This would be akin to the transformation of warehouse spaces into residential lofts in urban areas around the US in the 1990’s as manufacturing and shipping ports moved out of urban areas of the city. In the foreseeable future, there will always be a need for architects and associated professions to continue to improve on the constructed world in which we live.
What will help Design Architects increase their earning potential?
Martin Gold FAIA: Entering the field, architecture interns might find themselves in large firms working with project teams typically working with project architects, engineers, and clients to develop designs and translate them into drawings for permitting and construction. In some larger firms, there are expertise teams that work on specific building types such as housing, retail, warehouses, courthouses, supermarkets or restaurants. In smaller firms, they may be working directly with principal architects on projects. In both cases, interns would be attending client meetings, crafting drawings using one of the many computer drafting programs, and perhaps doing materials research and detailing the connections of various building systems. As interns gain experience, and perhaps secure their professional license, they move to become team leaders, partners, or perhaps start their own firms.
What general advice would you give to a Design Architect?
Grant Mosey Ph.D.: The path to salary maximization often seems to be a willingness to advocate on one's own behalf and be willing to move firms if necessary. Early career professionals may want to also think about where they are building their expertise. It is likely that architects who work on healthcare or multifamily housing are more likely to have abundant work in the future than those who work on places of religious worship or primary schools. The region in which one chooses to work and make connections can also be important. It never hurts to have a 'name brand' firm on one's resume early in one's career.
What Design Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Grant Mosey Ph.D.: I would advise architecture students to be as flexible as possible. While NAAB accredited schools award 6,000 to 7,000 professional degrees per year, NCARB states that fewer than 3,500 architects reach licensure each year. This suggests that many of those educated as architects are actually finding work in allied subjects. I know of many graduates who are set to become architects who end up becoming real estate professionals, construction professionals, policy-makers, academics, and more. Even for those dead set on architectural practice, these opportunities in adjacent fields can open doors to more design-focused practice.
What will help Design Architects increase their earning potential?
Grant Mosey Ph.D.: Familiarity with Building Information Modeling software like Revit is already all but a requirement to find professional work. Increasingly, firms are also looking for those who are capable of using visual programming like Grasshopper or Dynamo not only to generate forms but to optimize their workflow. In addition to those, professionals should familiarize themselves with modeling programs including SketchUp and Rhino and visualization platforms like VRay, Enscape, and Twin Motion. Soft skills like being personable and being able to present ideas extemporaneously will never go out of style.
What general advice would you give to a Design Architect?
Elaine Chow AIA, RA, NCARB: Adaptability will always be an important skill. There will be software improvements and changes that you need to stay aware of and technology that will benefit both the design and construction sides of the industry. Communication will remain an important part of the way we work together in teams.
What Design Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Elaine Chow AIA, RA, NCARB: Architecture licensure will help maximize salary potential, as well as pursuing other certifications such as LEED, CPHC, WELL, etc. Be your own advocate and request regular/annual reviews that allow you to highlight accomplishments and value you bring to your employer. If specialization appeals to you, there are opportunities to market yourself as an expert in a specific subject area.
What will help Design Architects increase their earning potential?
Elaine Chow AIA, RA, NCARB: Continue being a student throughout your career since learning never stops, especially in architecture where the knowledge is vast and first-hand experience is valuable. There are many facets to the architecture profession, when first graduating try to explore different roles to see what interests you and challenges you best.
What general advice would you give to a Design Architect?
Alfredo Fernandez-Gonzalez: It is important for recent graduates to recognize that Architecture is no longer limited to the physical realm, as transformative technologies are providing interesting career opportunities in the digital realm as well. This rapidly evolving context offers many opportunities and new directions for the discipline and remaining (or becoming!) current in new developments in computing power, digital visuals, manufacturing technologies, and robotics, are ways in which a recent graduate can secure a good paying job.
What Design Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Alfredo Fernandez-Gonzalez: Globally, there is significant demand for architects who are facile in the use of transformative technologies that support designers to generate and evaluate innovative ideas to provide solutions in a rapidly changing environment. Needless to say, being extremely competent in the many applications of Building Information Modeling (BIM), Extended Reality (XR), Generative Design, and Sustainability, will make new graduates effective at a time in which the profession and the world are rapidly transforming.
What will help Design Architects increase their earning potential?
Alfredo Fernandez-Gonzalez: In addition to mastering the skills that will become more important in the next 3-5 years, committing to work long hours and becoming credentialed in LEED, WELL, and/or other building performance standards is a way to quickly increase your worth for a firm. However, in the long run, working towards becoming a licensed architect is the best way to advance in the profession.
What general advice would you give to a Design Architect?
Dr. Alison Kwok PhD, RA, FAIA, LEED BD+C, CPHC: Diversify your experiences (and expectations); gain knowledge in a variety of different areas and certifications. Curate your portfolio to show a range of the kinds of work that you're able to offer. Get out of the comfort zone of doing only what you know "how to do" and challenge with incremental bits of knowledge.
What Design Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Alison Kwok PhD, RA, FAIA, LEED BD+C, CPHC: Because of the urgent need to address climate challenges in energy, materials, water, ecosystems, fire and so on, one person cannot do it all. Gone are the days of the "starchitect". What's most important is learning ways of collaboration, communicating, and team building; energy modeling at small and large holistic scales; life cycle accounting for materials.
What will help Design Architects increase their earning potential?
Dr. Alison Kwok PhD, RA, FAIA, LEED BD+C, CPHC: [tough question, in academia, we're prepare students to enter the profession with skills/knowledge, but really don't address the issue of how architects are paid when they start out in their careers. Perhaps first gather information such as cost of living data for the locations/cities of interest; find range of salaries for entry-level architects; talk with alums in the areas about benefits. To maximize salary potential, portfolio, cover letter, and range of experiences are key. As mentioned above, preparation to help firms to advance their mission, and be able to offer ways to help the firm get to important aspects beyond billable hours. Ask questions during the interview process about advancement and benefits.
Dak Kopec Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Coordinator, BA Interior Architecture and Design and Master of Design ProgramUniversity Of Nevada, Las Vegas
School of Architecture
What experience really stands out on Design Architect resumes?
Dak Kopec Ph.D.: Experience in the areas where one intends to practice. If someone wants to work in hospitality design, an employer will see what kind of experience they have. This is why selecting one's internship location is so important.
Many employers are also looking to see how well the Interior Designer can think outside the box and develop innovative design ideas.
An area of specialized knowledge that will complement the existing design team. Most firms are looking for future leaders.
What Design Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dak Kopec Ph.D.: Design thinking. This can be done by looking for certificates or attending a series of seminars. The COVID-19 virus has opened up numerous opportunities to shape an Interior Designer's scope. Using Design Thinking as a means to solve problems will enhance a person's marketability.
Additionally, I would recommend learning about disease transmission and pathology. With a stronger foundation in these areas, the interior designer will be better equipped to address the infection control expectations that will likely be required of future Interior Designers.
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Design Architects in the next 3-5 years?
Dak Kopec Ph.D.: COVID-19 has changed the playing field, and future skills will need to include creative ways to use materials and systems for enhanced infection control. This will consist of thinking differently about ventilation systems, space planning, and material specifications.
Randall Randall
Program Head Architecture, ProfessorUniversity of Idaho
Architecture Department
What skills stand out on Design Architect resumes?
Randall Randall: Diversity of creative work demonstrated in a portfolio.
What soft skills should all Design Architects possess?
Randall Randall: Communication skills (both disciplinary and interpersonal); strong work ethic; reliability.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Design Architects?
Randall Randall: Adept with hand-drawing, model making, CAD, and graphics software (photoshop, illustrator). Experience with some kind of hands-on-making/construction is a plus.
What skills will help Design Architects earn the most?
Randall Randall: Strength in all of the above, i.e., being the "whole package."
Rashida Ng, RA
Associate Professor of ArchitectureTemple University
Tyler School of Art + Architecture
What skills stand out on Design Architect resumes?
Rashida Ng, RA: Within the profession of architecture, breadth of knowledge is essential. Architectural designers must understand materials, building systems, structures, codes, and regulations, as well as historical and civic issues. Furthermore, they must be able to effectively communicate verbally, in writing, and through graphic formats. Applicants with resumes and portfolios that demonstrate competence in these areas will be competitive in the job market.
What soft skills should all Design Architects possess?
Rashida Ng, RA: At its best, the practice of architecture enhances the lives of people and improves the health of communities. To that end, architects must respond to complex and often competing conditions within a single project. As such, effective listening skills, and the ability to collaborate with project teams, consultants, and community members are essential in the field.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Design Architects?
Rashida Ng, RA: Given the climate crisis, architects must design buildings that reduce carbon emissions during construction and post-occupancy. Technical skills, including building information modeling, environmental impact assessments, and post-occupancy evaluations, provide essential information to reduce the environmental impact of buildings. As such, demand for these skills will continue to increase in the years to come.
What skills will help Design Architects earn the most?
Rashida Ng, RA: Architecture needs effective leaders. The most successful architects empower those around them to perform at their best. Those who advance in the field also consistently leverage constraints into possibilities as they inspire others to pursue a shared vision of a place that does not yet exist.
How have salaries changed over time for Design Architects?
Tamarah Begay: Salaries have changed a lot over the time I have spent in the Architectural Field. Minority women are now getting the recognition that they deserve in a field that has predominantly been ruled by non-minority males, and although it still is not equal, we have gained admission to higher compensation than we used to receive.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Design Architect job market given the pandemic?
Tamarah Begay: One of the largest trends in the job market given the pandemic is the usage of different online and virtual platforms for interviews and meetings. Not only are these platforms being used to communicate ideas and design but to connect and link professionals to job seekers. This has allowed the industry to have shifted to predominantly working remotely. There has also been a rise and increase in anti-microbial materials, space planning, and incorporating a cleaner HVAC and air quality system into buildings. This can include using hard surface floors and furniture without fabrics to allow for ease of cleaning and to help reduce the spread of germs and incorporating specialty air filters or lights. The industry has also seen an increase in wanting to incorporate outdoor spaces within designs.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Design Architects?
Tamarah Begay: Certifications and licenses that can be locally, nationally, and universally applicable are most impactful for a future job prospect to have. Being a licensed Architect and having or being LEED certified is of great impact for job prospects on all levels. Staying up to date on continuing education courses and staying knowledgeable about new products or methods should be a habitual update to one's personal knowledge bank. Bringing versatility and diversity to the work place in any form, whether it is through licenses or courses, is beneficial and can have a great impact.
How have salaries changed over time for Design Architects?
Marc Neveu Ph.D.: I was first hired into an architecture office over 25 years ago, so I can say with some confidence, that salaries have gone up! Many offices, however, are very different than when I graduated. Not all, but many are much more integrated with other disciplines. There is an incredible group of firms in the valley, like Construction Zone, who do both design and construction. Others, like Ryan Companies, are integrated from Development through Facilities Management. By owning more of the entire process, rather than just the design, firms are able to generate more revenue. As a student graduating today, I would be better position to have an architecture degree plus an additional credential - in construction management, real estate development, or even sustainability. In this way, you can leverage your position in an office to be more valuable.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Design Architect job market given the pandemic?
Marc Neveu Ph.D.: The pandemic has had an interesting effect. At first, everyone froze and thought all work was going to stop. We are a year in and many firms are as busy as they were a year ago. Still, it is different for different markets, and there is some caution about projects scheduled a year from now. That said, money is relatively cheap at the moment and that is good for construction.
What technical skills for a Design Architect stand out to employers?
Marc Neveu Ph.D.: Here is a baseline of technical skills, usually related to the software used in the office, but software changes. I was in a conversation recently with Christiana Moss, who is a partner at Studio Ma, and she had a great quote. She needed recent graduates "who could be useful." This meant being able to think on their own, to ask questions, and to be able to take on a project without the need to be told how to do everything. We don't expect graduates to know everything they need to know to build a building, but they should be aware of what they don't know and be able to ask good questions, work collaboratively, and also independently.
Anonymous Professor
How have salaries changed over time for Design Architects?
Anonymous Professor : With regard to money and employment compensation ... those who can be willing to try new things and move with the flow will do well ... very well. Those who cannot, it's McDonald's and minimum wage ...
A footnote: ... the people I contact do not care about who you are, what you are, or how you are. So things like pronouns, and victimization, and excuses, and hanging on to reasons for failure will not cut it in the workplace of the future ... learn ... grow ... and you will have success ...
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Design Architect job market given the pandemic?
Anonymous Professor : With regards to trends during the pandamic ... I think that there are huge opportunities to be had, if the graduates have their acts together. I network with my former students who are now partners or upper managers in companies. The era of Monday morning meetings in conference rooms is over. In the future, networking with colleagues and clients will be done via some distance system. So the Zoom classes taken today will prepare students for the boardroom tomorrow. Quit whinning and see the opportinities waiting the be catured ... they are there ... the challenges with distance learning will separate the 'wheat from the chaf' ... those who can adapt to a new way of thinking will survive ... those who cannot will be quickly sent to the scrap heap. But, graduates cannot act like young spoiled people. They need to have skills and abilities ... AND ... people skills ... big time ...
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Design Architects?
Anonymous Professor : With regard to student graduates with the license issue and their potential, it's all about and their ability to think ... my contacts tell me that they want people who can look outside the box ... and be flexible to change ... and make no mistake about it ... the future is all about a willingness to change and be flexible to change. Professional license requirements is a think of the past ... it's all about what you can do now.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Design Architects?
Paul Strother: We are hopeful that we will not see any long-term impact on our graduates due to the pandemic. That being said, we know that some students have struggled with the added stress of COVID-19, and others with managing online education, leading them to withdraw from school. And we know that students who choose not to finish their degree carry the long-term effects of a disrupted education.
What type of skills will young Design Architects need?
Paul Strother: For students earning their A.A.S. in Architectural Drafting & Design, the skills they are currently learning will be critical to their future success. Not only should students master Revit, but they also need the ability to quickly learn other software. They need an understanding of the principles of construction and building systems, and they need to know the role of the architect and its companion players, such as contractors, consultants and owners. Understanding regulatory elements will also continue to be key skill sets. At the core, when they leave Dunwoody, they must be ready to continue learning new systems, software and regulations, and possess the fundamental skill of good communication. This past year has also taught students to be flexible, and exposed them to new ways of communicating and doing business, which are critical skills as they enter today's workforce.
What experience really stands out on Design Architect resumes?
Paul Strother: Dunwoody focuses on ensuring our students are learning the skills employers need. Because of that, students are ready for a part-time office job even before they graduate. Dunwoody structures the program and its class schedule in a way that allows for part-time positions, and provides students with the right software and a grasp of the building systems they're working with. We know that a recent graduate with the right skills, along with some experience on their resume, will be hired first after graduation.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Design Architects?
Kristen DeWolf: The class of 2021 will be in a highly competitive hiring situation. Not only will they have their peers to compete against for jobs, but also those who were laid-off or furloughed as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. It will be imperative for the graduates to prove they are the 'right' candidate. At the same time, this class has had to jump into flexibility mode to be successful as classes, club meetings, and even internships went virtual. They have already proven they are quick to adapt to the changing nature of work.
What's a good job out of college for Design Architects?
Kristen DeWolf: We are encouraging students to keep their options open. Any position that will add soft and/or hard skills to your resume is a great job to consider after college. Showing the value they provide will only help them as they continue to build their careers.
What technical skills for a Design Architect stand out to employers?
Kristen DeWolf: This is certainly highly dependent upon the industry the employer is in/type of work being done; however, MSExcel is one of the key skills that I hear over and over again from employers across many industries. Researching the employer/industry and understanding the technologies most used (and learning those programs if you don't already) is a great way for a candidate to stand out. There are plenty of opportunities to learn technical skills on sites such as LinkedIn Learning. When a candidate can show they're paying attention and have learned the skills to hit the ground running, the more valuable they will be as a candidate.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Design Architect job market given the pandemic?
Teresa Rosano: We've found that the residential market is active, largely because people are spending more time in their homes and using them differently. Re-thinking the assumption that everyone goes to an office five days a week is likely to open possibilities for geographic flexibility.
What Design Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Teresa Rosano: Learning software is always a good option, and there are often less expensive community college or on-line tutorials to support that. Or taking one or more transferable community college general education classes to lighten the load in subsequent semesters (make sure they transfer though!)
Michael Brazley Ph.D.
Associate Professor of ArchitectureSouthern Illinois University Carbondale
School of Architecture
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Design Architect job market given the pandemic?
Michael Brazley Ph.D.: Yes, there will be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on graduates. The first issue that comes to mind is lack of work for graduates because of lack of architectural commissions. The second point that comes to mind is that design itself will have changed because of covid-19. And third, more people will be working from home.
What Design Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Michael Brazley Ph.D.: Architectural Graduates will have to have very strong computer skills; not just in drawing but in writing also. Graduates will need to know the latest software, and in many cases, help to introduce the latest software to their new companies. Students are learning to make 3D digital videos and virtual reality models.
What general advice would you give to a Design Architect?
Michael Brazley Ph.D.: Work experience in an architect's office is best.
Robin Puttock
Interim Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies, Visiting Assistant ProfessorThe Catholic University of America
School of Architecture and Planning
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Design Architect job market given the pandemic?
Robin Puttock: I think we will continue to see more use of online platforms. I believe we will have an increase in firm participation this year in our annual School of Architecture and Planning career fair due to the online platform. In previous years, we invited representatives who were local and who could attend in person. There were also space limitations in our architecture building. Now that we are online, that opens up a world of possibilities, both for the hiring firms and for the students. In addition, the interviewing process can be quite efficient online, especially in the initial stages.
What Design Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Robin Puttock: My background is in sustainable civic architecture that supports wellbeing. Therefore, I would highly recommend earning certifications, if possible. I would recommend the LEED Green Associate and/or the WELL AP. In addition, NCARB's AXP hours can be quite flexible and can accommodate experience hours outside of the traditional architecture office.
If a student cannot find employment in an architecture firm working under a licensed architect, students have the option to earn AXP hours working for contractors, landscape architects, engineers, etc. As a bonus, they will receive a well-rounded internship experience. Finally, I would also recommend getting in touch with their local AIA chapters and plugging into continuing education opportunities and conferences. Knowledge and network connections gained in these outlets may prove quite useful in a future interview.
What general advice would you give to a Design Architect?
Robin Puttock: In addition to all of the above, I recommend students stay connected with their professors. Most of us have a vast network that we would love to invite you into. Often, an introduction is the pivotal component to a new opportunity. Relationships are key, especially when a recent graduate does not have significant professional experience. In addition, recent graduates should be sure to spend time on crafting their cover letters, their resumes, their work samples, and their portfolios. Make sure you are putting your best foot forward when an opportunity does arise.