Volunteer Opportunities

Location: Vancouver, B.C.
Status: three-year term, renewable

The Architectural Institute of British Columbia (“AIBC” or “Institute”) is seeking Architects AIBC and Retired Architects AIBC to participate on the Investigation Committee.

About the Investigation Committee
The AIBC Investigation Committee (the “Committee”) is a Statutory Committee established under the Professional Governance Act (the “PGA”). This Committee works with the AIBC Professional Conduct & Illegal Practice department to oversee and investigate complaints made against registrants (Architects AIBC, Intern Architects AIBC, Architectural Technologists AIBC, Retired Architects AIBC, temporary licensees, and firms), which may include alleged breaches of the PGA, Regulations, AIBC Bylaws, and the AIBC’s Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. Individual Committee members will be assigned to a specific investigation file as the lead “Investigator” and will prepare and provide a report of their findings to the Committee for deliberation and determination of the outcome of the investigation.

Reporting Structure

Committee members are appointed by and report to AIBC Council.

Duties and Expectations

The specific responsibilities of the Committee are further detailed in the Investigation Committee’s Terms of Reference.

• Consistent attendance in-person or by video conferencing (Zoom) is required for Committee meetings.
• Committee members are required to thoroughly review detailed and voluminous documentation within set timelines to prepare reports and fully participate in discussion related to ongoing investigations.
• Investigators will receive administrative support from AIBC staff Investigators, and are accountable for and required to attend investigation interviews and prepare investigation reports detailing their findings and recommendations. Reports will be submitted to the Committee for review, direction, and determination.
• Committee members must consider evidence against the allegations with fair and objective judgement to consider whether a complaint matter should be closed or referred to the discipline process.
• Committee members will be involved in the complaint resolution processes to impose disciplinary orders on registrants following the completion of an investigation.
• Before acting as a member of the Committee, appointed members must take and sign, by oath or solemn affirmation, an oath of office in the form and manner established by regulation.

Specific Skills, Attributes, and Experience

Successful candidates will possess or be willing to develop a combination of experience, desirable skills, and competencies, which include:

• Proficient investigative skills including evidence collection, interviewing skills, and problem-solving skills.
• Previous experience collecting, reviewing, and presenting information for thorough analysis.
• Excellent time management skills and the ability to work independently.
• Strong technical writing skills (e.g., report writing) and good computer skills (e.g., ability to manage electronic documents and participate in virtual meetings).
• Proficient information analysis skills – demonstrates the ability to think critically and make objective evidence-based decisions or recommendations from available information.
• Excellent attention to detail – ensures information is complete and accurate and follows through on commitments in a timely manner.
• Effective communication skills including the ability to work cooperatively with others, engage in potentially controversial topics in a manner that encourages dialogue, and possess the ability to listen and willingness to consider others’ opinions.
• Knowledge of the Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct.
• Understanding principles of due process and concepts of procedural fairness.
• Previous experience participating in or conducting investigative interviews is an asset.
• Knowledge of the adjudication process or previous experience participating in adjudication, or a dispute resolution hearing is an asset.
• Appreciation for the gravitas of working in the public interest.

Time Commitment

• The Committee will meet monthly and as required for approximately three hours. Preparation time in advance of each meeting is required.
• Significant individual time is required to review file materials, conduct interviews, prepare for meetings, and draft reports. The time commitment will vary depending on the nature and complexity of complaint files.
• Committee members must demonstrate a commitment to professional development and attend recommended training to enhance role on the Committee (e.g., investigation, adjudication, conflict resolution, report writing, bias training etc.).

Benefits

• Committee members will receive compensation for their service: attending Committee meetings, document preparation, and acting as a lead Investigator.
• Contribute to the AIBC’s core mandate of regulating the profession of architecture in the interest of the public.
• Gain new and develop existing skills through practice and training.
• Network opportunities to connect with other professionals.
• Professional development opportunities funded by the AIBC.
• Recognition as an AIBC volunteer.

Volunteer Profile

The selection of registrant member applicants will be based on the following criteria:

1. Basic Attributes
   • Registration as an Architect AIBC or Retired Architect AIBC in good standing.
   • Note that current members of council may not sit on the Committee, or any statutory committee under the PGA.

2. Volunteer Competencies
   • Upholds the protection and integrity of confidential information. Committee members must ensure and maintain confidentiality of all information acquired in the course of their duties on the Committee.
   • Demonstrates honesty, high ethical standards, and professionalism in all interactions and is accountable for one’s decisions and actions.
   • Understands and appreciates the core work of the AIBC in the public interest, the AIBC’s governance structure, and relationship between registrants, the Institute, and the public.
   • Solid and developing knowledge of standards of professional ethics and conduct in architectural practice as stated in the AIBC’s Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct.
   • Solid and developing knowledge of the specific functions, process and procedure of the Committee as stated in the PGA, AIBC Bylaws, and Guidelines.
   • Demonstrates a genuine interest in serving on the Committee to accomplish its objectives.
   • Demonstrates readiness to support and prioritize the public interest mandate of the AIBC.
   • Committed to Indigenous reconciliation, awareness, diversity, equity, and inclusion demonstrated by a desire to learn, listen, and pursue educational opportunities.

Getting Involved

The AIBC believes the public and the profession are best served by committees that include members from diverse backgrounds. While all qualified architects and retired architects are encouraged to consider this opportunity and apply, the AIBC especially encourages and invites applications from architects and retired architects living and/or practicing outside the Lower Mainland, women, Indigenous Peoples, Black and People of Colour, persons with disabilities, persons of diverse sexual orientation, gender identity or expression (LGBTQ2S+), architects for whom English is a second language (ESL), and architects in public practice.

If you are interested in joining the Committee, please send a recent copy of your CV and an expression of interest detailing your skills, experience, and how you meet the required competencies to volunteers@aibc.ca.

A merit-based assessment of applicants will be carried out based on the competencies, experience and skills identified as required for committee members. This process may involve an interview of short-listed candidates. AIBC Council is responsible for the final appointment of all Committee members.

Location: Vancouver, B.C.
Status: Three-year term, renewable

The Architectural Institute of British Columbia (the “AIBC” or “Institute”) is seeking Architects AIBC to serve on the Experience Review Advisory Group.

About the Experience Review Advisory Group

The Experience Review Advisory Group (“Group”) assists the Institute in reviewing the work experience component of the Internship in Architecture Program (IAP). Under this domestic stream to registration, Intern Architects need to accumulate a specified minimum of experience hours in pre-determined practice categories. The Group ensures that the experience component is being administered and evaluated fairly, effectively, and supports Intern Architects AIBC by facilitating this pathway to registration. In addition, the Group provides advice and recommendations to the Credentials Committee, and to staff, regarding policies and procedures governing the administration of intern architect work experience.

Reporting Structure

Advisory Group members are appointed by the AIBC Chief Executive Officer and report to the AIBC Credentials Committee.

Duties and Expectations

• Attend the in-person (at the AIBC offices) or virtual Zoom meetings.
• Review and assess the work experience submitted by Intern Architects in their Canadian Experience Record Book (CERB) including the review and approval of standard work experience of Intern Architects in accordance with the requirements of the IAP manual and Appendix B to the IAP manual.
• Review non-standard work experience of Intern Architects and conduct interviews, through an Experience Review panel, as necessary.
• Ensure the work experience logs are being assessed effectively, consistently, and fairly.
• Occasional participation in Experience Review Interviews to approve work experience.
• Provide recommendations and feedback to staff and the Credentials Committee regarding IAP work assessment policies and procedures.

Specific Skills, Attributes, and Experience

The successful candidate will possess or be willing to develop the following:

• Experience and knowledge of the Internship in Architecture program, the program requirements, or experience with similar registration programs and review processes.
• The ability to review documents objectively, critically, in a timely and efficient manner, and take all relevant information into account.
• The ability to analyze applicants’ experience, assess their qualifications, and make informed decisions and recommendations.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and prioritize tasks to ensure an efficient and effective review process.
• Effective communication skills including the ability to clearly communicate program requirements and provide recommendations.
• Ability to work cooperatively with others.
• Experience interpreting and applying competency frameworks to assess qualifications for entry is an asset.

Time Commitment

• The Group meets monthly or bimonthly for 1 or 2 hours over the lunch period of a mid-week workday. Additionally, the review work can be performed at flexible times using SharePoint/online database, as arranged with AIBC staff.
• Meetings are held virtually over Zoom or at the centrally located AIBC offices, with catering and parking provided.

Benefits

• Opportunity to support the IAP and contribute to the AIBC’s core mandate of regulating the profession of architecture in the interest of the public.
• Gain new and develop existing skills through exposure to a variety of work experience areas, practice, and training.
• Network opportunities to connect with other professionals.
• Professional development opportunities funded by the AIBC.
• Recognition as an AIBC volunteer.

Volunteer Profile

In addition to the skills, attributes, and experience above, the selection of registrant member applicants will be based on the following criteria:

1. Basic Attributes
   • Registration as an Architect AIBC in Good Standing.
2. Volunteer Competencies
   • Upholds the protection and integrity of confidential information. Advisory Group members must ensure and maintain confidentiality of all information acquired in the course of their duties on the Group.
   • Demonstrates honesty, high ethical standards, and professionalism in all interactions and is accountable for one’s decisions and actions.
   • Understands and appreciates the core work of the AIBC in the public interest, the AIBC’s governance structure, and relationship between registrants, the Institute, and the public.
   • Commitment to facilitate the progression of Intern Architects on the path towards licensure.
   • Demonstrates a genuine interest in serving as a member of the Group to accomplish its objectives.
   • Demonstrates readiness to support and prioritize the public interest mandate of the AIBC.

Getting Involved

The AIBC believes the public and the profession are best served by committees and advisory groups that include members from diverse backgrounds. While all qualified professionals are encouraged to consider this opportunity and apply, the AIBC especially encourages and invites applications from professionals living outside the Lower Mainland, women, Indigenous Peoples, Black and People of Colour, persons with disabilities, persons of diverse sexual orientation, gender identity or expression (LGBTQ2S+), professionals for whom English is a second language (ESL), and others who may contribute to diversity in public sector committee appointments.

If you are interested in joining the Experience Review Advisory Group, please submit an Expression of Interest detailing your skills, experience, and how you meet the requirements of this role to volunteers@aibc.ca.

The AIBC is seeking new members for its Design Panel Advisory Group to serve as liaisons for various municipalities. We welcome all qualified candidates to apply for this position, with a particular need for representation from Vancouver Island.

The committee engages in valuable discussions on the importance and role of Advisory Design Panels (ADPs) including how to best promote their appropriate function in the public interest. The Design Panel Advisory Group reviews advisory design panel (ADP) applications and provides recommendations for architect nominations to all ADPs across the province requiring architect members per local bylaw or terms of reference.

To learn more about the objectives, criteria, and procedures for nomination to and service on an ADP, please refer to the following documents:

• Bulletin 65: Advisory Design Panels – Standards for Procedure and Conduct
• Practice Guideline: Advisory Design Panels (ADPs)

Duties and Expectations 

• Promote the appropriate use of ADPs in the public interest
• Review ADP applications and provide recommendations for nomination of architects to ADPs for assigned municipalities
• Attend and actively participate in monthly meetings, bringing forward any ADP-related issues or questions for committee discussion and feedback

Volunteer Profile

• Registration as an Architect AIBC or Retired Architect AIBC
• Interest in and/or experience with advisory design panel related matters
• Understanding and appreciation of AIBC’s core regulatory mandate
• Previous experience presenting at and serving on ADPs is an asset

Average Time Commitment

• Committee meetings take place on the first Wednesday of each month (excluding July and August) at 12:15 p.m. and usually conclude after an hour.
• Work outside of meeting times will be required, including sending correspondence to municipalities and architects interested in serving on ADPs.
• Volunteers are expected to maintain an excellent Committee meeting attendance record. Meetings are currently taking place remotely through Zoom. However, the Committee hopes to gradually return to some in-person meetings at the AIBC.

Benefits

• Opportunity to protect the public’s interest and demonstrate your expertise in the field of architecture
• Network and connect with other professionals
• Share your knowledge and experience and discuss matters related to advisory design panels
• AIBC committee volunteers are eligible to receive Non-core Learning Unit credit for their service
• Participate in meetings remotely allowing you to contribute from various locations

Getting Involved

If you are interested in joining the Design Panel Committee, please send an expression of interest of no more than 300 words describing why you are a good fit for this committee to Jocelyn Webster, People and Culture Specialist, at volunteers@aibc.ca.

The AIBC is seeking creative and ambitious members to participate on the Conference Professional Development (PD) Committee. This role provides the opportunity to assist with planning the educational content for AIBC Confab and Conference.

AIBC Confab and Conference brings members of the design community together to learn about industry trends, technological advances and best practices. These events are also a chance to network, socialize, and celebrate the innovative, impactful work of practitioners and theorists in the field of architecture.

Duties and Expectation

• Work with AIBC staff to plan, strategize and coordinate the PD sessions for Confab Conference.
• Assist with PD stream planning, proposal reviews, speaker selection and recruitment and ongoing liaising with confirmed speakers.
• Attend and actively participate in bi-weekly meetings, maintain strong connections, and actively engage with the architecture community.

Volunteer Profile

• All classes of AIBC registrants are welcome
• A propensity for creativity and innovation
• Active involvement in or knowledge of the evolving architectural trends
• Previous experience planning, coordinating, or facilitating professional development events is an asset
• Previous experience with large architectural firms is an asset

Average Time Commitment

• Committee meetings take place every two weeks on Tuesdays at 12 p.m. from September through April and usually conclude after two hours.
• Volunteers are expected to maintain an excellent Committee meeting attendance record. Meetings are currently taking place remotely through Zoom. However, the Committee hopes to gradually return to some in-person meetings at the AIBC.

Benefits

• Guide, inspire and influence the PD programming for Confab and Conference
• Network and connect with emerging and registered architects within British Columbia
• AIBC committee volunteers are eligible to receive Non-core Learning Unit credit for their service
• Participate in some meetings remotely allowing you to contribute from various locations

Getting Involved
If you are interesting in joining the Conference PD Committee, please send an expression of interest of no more than 300 words describing why you are a good fit for this committee and how your knowledge or experience will contribute to a successful event, to Jocelyn Webster, People and Culture Specialist, at volunteers@aibc.ca.

The institute is looking to expand its roster of volunteer architects to serve as Oral Exam panelists. The Oral Exam is a crucial step in the process for intern architects and Broadly Experienced Applicants to register as an architect with the AIBC.

Reviewers participate in a panel to assess and evaluate a candidate’s ability to understand the practice of architecture and how it is carried out and regulated in B.C. This is an ideal opportunity to stay updated on current issues and to help applicants in becoming future architects.

Interested volunteer candidates should possess the following qualifications:

• Be a registered Architect AIBC in good standing or a recently Retired Architect AIBC (within the last two years)
• Minimum 3-5 years’ experience practicing architecture
• Possess a broad understanding of the practice and regulation of architecture in B.C.
• Possess strong communication skills

The benefits and time commitment of this committee include:

• This position does not require a monthly commitment and offers flexibility in terms of the volunteer’s level of commitment due to the schedule of Oral Exams which are generally held three times per year (March, June and September)
• Oral Examiners participate in one to three online or in-person Oral Exams in the afternoons/evenings
• Oral Examiners take place remotely via Zoom and at the centrally located offices of the AIBC
• Oral Examiners, like all AIBC committee volunteers, are eligible to receive non-core Learning Unit credit for their service

Please note that training will be provided. Prospective Oral Examiners must sit in as an observer on an Oral Exam panel for a minimum of three sessions.

Interested candidates are invited to contact Jocelyn Webster, People and Culture Specialist, at: volunteers@aibc.ca.

The Internship in Architecture Program (IAP) is the domestic stream to registration as an Architect in Canada, which sets educational, experience and examination standards for licensure. During their progression through the IAP, Intern Architects AIBC will rely on the guidance and support of a Mentor to help them fulfill their path to registration.

Role

• Provide objective guidance and direction outside of the Intern Architect’s workplace.
• Be a positive and professional role model to one or more Intern Architects and conduct regular reviews of the Intern Architect’s progress.
• Share discussions of overall career objectives within the field of architecture.

Volunteer Profile

• An Architect AIBC or Retired Architect AIBC. Note: a mentor cannot be employed at the same architectural firm, organization, or practice as the Intern Architect AIBC.
• Fluency in multiple languages is an asset.

Time Commitment

• At a minimum, the Mentor must meet with the Intern Architect prior to each submission of their Canadian Experience Record Book (CERB), which occurs approximately twice per year.
• Meetings can be held at a convenient location for both the Mentor and the Intern Architect. More frequent meetings are encouraged, and can include teleconferencing.

Benefits

• Contribute to the self-regulation of the profession as well as an opportunity for professional networking with intern architects.

Mentorship in General

There will be opportunities to mentor Broadly-Experienced Applicants. These candidates are seeking registration through alternative qualifications and are either foreign-trained architects, or already have extensive local work experience, or a combination of both. Mentors will act as a resource providing general advice about the registration process within the AIBC.

Getting Involved

To get involved, and for all other volunteer related enquiries, please contact Jocelyn Webster, People and Culture Specialist, at volunteers@aibc.ca.

The AIBC invites applications from architects interested in serving on municipal Advisory Design Panels. The role of an advisory design panel member is to give impartial, professional advice directly on any proposal or policy affecting the community’s physical environment in the public interest.

The AIBC invites applications from architects interested in serving on any municipal ADP listed on the application form. Below are the design panels that have upcoming appointments:

• City of Nanaimo
• City of Victoria
• Township of Esquimalt
• University of British Columbia

For more information about the meeting schedules of each design panel, please refer to the Design Panel Meeting Matrix (PDF).

To learn more about the procedures for serving on a panel, please refer to the following documents:

• AIBC Bulletin 65: Advisory Design Panels – Standards for Procedures and Conduct (PDF)
• Practice Guideline: Advisory Design Panels (ADPs) (PDF)

To apply, please forward your latest CV along with the Advisory Design Panel Application Form (PDF) to designpanels@aibc.ca.