In my last post, I bemoaned the fact that the architectural education establishment appears to be ignoring the fact that architecture is a profession licensed by the states to protect public health, safety, and welfare. Rather than be a complainer, I have to offer a path toward a solution. This is why I am a member of CSI.
For the emerging professionals out there, CSI (The Construction Specifications Institute – not the TV show) offers many opportunities to obtain the technical information you missed while in architecture school. This information is also of value to the other members of the construction/design team.
Most CSI chapters offer great technical programs at their monthly membership meetings. Additionally, most offer AIA learning units with certificates for non-AIA members. Most of the CSI regions also offer similar education programs. Both of these options are available to you, the young professional at very little cost and minimal travel, so take advantage of the low hanging educational fruit.
If you have the wherewithal to get there, attendance at Construct 2012 and the CSI Convention inPhoenixSeptember 11-14,2012 is a great source of information and technical education. Professionals who attend can usually get enough hours during the four days to satisfy their state’s continuing education requirements for professional licensure.
CSI continues to pursue other opportunities to offer technical education for the construction community, so stay tuned.
Charlottesville Architect 
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