On September 16, over 300 people gathered at the Hotel Vancouver for the 2026 AIBC Induction and Retirement Ceremony. The annual event recognizes newly registered Architects AIBC and Architectural Technologists AIBC, as well as Retired Architects AIBC. Since the 2025 ceremony, more than 300 individuals have registered with the Institute, and nearly 50 have retired from the profession.
The ceremony began with the procession of the inductees. The emcee for the evening was Mary McMains Architect AIBC. Following her opening remarks, Board Vice Chair Matthew Halverson Architect AIBC provided his address on behalf of the Board – he extended best wishes and hearty congratulations to the inductees and retirees, and encouraged them to be actively involved with the Institute as they both embark on their respective next chapters. He then led architect inductees through a recitation of the Architect’s Declaration.
As per tradition, a recently retired architect delivered the Charge to inductees. This year, John Etcher Retired Architect AIBC led the address:
“One of my first charges to the newly inducted Architects is to give back. As you grow in the profession and gain experience, I cannot stress the importance of giving back by teaching and supporting others. And always honour your commitments to the public, your client, your fellow colleagues at work, and the AIBC.”
– Charge excerpt from John Etcher Retired Architect AIBC
Newly registered Architect AIBC Apoorva Madhavan provided the Response:
“We will build our careers and leave our mark on the profession. But I hope we also remember the people who helped us get here. The fellow intern architects who supported us, the mentors who guided us, and eventually, the people who will look to us for that same support. Stay inquisitive, continue asking questions, and build upon the foundations laid by the retirees, and do justice to our new title, fellow architects.
– Charge Response excerpt from Apoorva Madhavan Architect AIBC
