Meet the AIBC Volunteers
AIBC volunteers have a wide range of backgrounds and expertise, along with different reasons to get involved with the Institute. To share their unique experiences and stories, we have profiled several individuals who explain the value they have received from volunteering, as well as provide advice to others interested in becoming an AIBC volunteer.
Marguerite Laquinte Francis Architect AIBC | Volunteer since 2011.
Q: What do you enjoy most about volunteering with the AIBC?
A: I studied architecture in another province so volunteering gives me an opportunity to meet design professionals in the community. We’re all there to work collaboratively on issues which are of common interest so I really look forward to the time that we spend together. One committee that I worked on was especially impactful as it’s where I first met my current business partner. I was a member for several years and still get inspired by the work that we all did.
Q: What have you learned through your volunteer experience?
A: I’ve learned an incredible amount from hearing the perspectives of others that I wouldn’t necessarily have crossed paths with. I’ve been at the table with architects who are at various stages in their careers, from big firms or small and others who have come to BC from other countries. This past year, I’ve really missed those moments before the meeting, where we would catch up as we grab a coffee before getting down to the issue at hand.
Ryan Dinh Intern Architect AIBC | Volunteer since 2019.
Q: Why did you start volunteering with the AIBC?
A: My involvement in the regulation of the profession, both as an AIBC volunteer and previously as an AIBC staff member, has enhanced my perspective of the industry and field – I want to share my knowledge and experience with current and future intern architects.
Q:What do you enjoy most about volunteering with the AIBC?
A: Volunteering with the AIBC has allowed me to meet and learn from my colleagues, and to work together to make a positive impact on the profession.
David Weiser Retired Architect AIBC | Volunteer since 1973.
Q: What do you enjoy most about volunteering with the AIBC?
A: I enjoy the contact with my colleagues, the sense of involvement in the profession, and the feeling that I am making a contribution to architecture in the public realm.
Q: What have you learned through your volunteer experience?
A: I learned how much wisdom and professionalism there is among the Institute’s registrants, and their willingness to help a (then)-new practitioner. I established friendships with many distinguished architects with whom I maintain contact to this day.
Volunteer Opportunities
Shaping the profession. Contributing to the community. Furthering self-regulation.
The AIBC Volunteer Program is an initiative that supports registrants and members of the public in contributing to the mandate of the Institute and the architectural community in British Columbia. Consisting of more than 25 operational boards, committees, panels, task forces, and other initiatives, the program provides many ways to get involved in areas as diverse as registration pathways, intern program support, professional conduct and ethics, investigations, design and continuing education.
If you are interested in volunteering with the AIBC, view the current Volunteer Opportunities webpage. If you would like to learn more about the program or apply to volunteer, please fill out the Volunteer Application Form (PDF) or contact volunteers@aibc.ca.