Volunteer Program

Position(s):

• Registrant member; open to Architects AIBC and Retired Architects AIBC

Term: three-years, renewable

About the Group

In a year when a Board election is scheduled to be held, the Nomination Committee (the “Committee”) leads the candidate assessment and selection process. The Committee assesses each candidate (Architects AIBC) to establish whether the individual meets the competencies required for Board members to be effective in their role. Committee members do so in accordance with the Professional Governance Act General Regulations, AIBC Bylaws, and Board Policy. Committee members nominate qualified candidates to stand for election to the Board as Registrant Board Members. Only candidates who are nominated by the Committee are eligible to stand for election.

The Committee receives practical and operational guidance and support from AIBC staff representatives. Committee members are appointed by the Board and are required to take an oath of office. Detailed information about the duties of the Committee, its mandate and operations can be found in the Nomination Committee Terms of Reference.

Duties and Expectations

The following non-exhaustive list is intended to guide applicants on the key duties and expectations of Committee members.

• Consistent attendance at Committee meetings, either in-person or virtually;
• Fulfill the requirements and obligations of the Committee as indicated in Board Policy 2.7 Board Competencies and Board Member Selection Process;
• Review agenda materials independently and in advance of Committee meetings, in order to engage effectively and discuss received applications;
• Participate in candidate interviews, and evaluate the candidate’s skills, experience and attributes in line with the stated Board competencies and personal attributes;
• Prepare factual and objective assessments of applicants for discussion;
• Determine with other Committee members the list of qualified individuals to be nominated for election;
• Demonstrable commitment to professional development and attendance at recommended training to enhance their role on the Committee.

Additional duties and expectations of a Committee chair:

• Effectively lead the Committee meetings and candidate interviews in line with established priorities, timelines and deliverables;
• With support from the AIBC staff representatives, address issues of strategic concern between the Committee and the Board;
• Liaise with and advise all candidates on the outcome of the selection process;
• Submit a report to the Board in accordance with the PGA and Board Policy.

Skills, Aptitudes, and Experience

The successful Nomination Committee member will possess or be willing to develop the following:

• Understanding and appreciation of the AIBC’s core regulatory mandate and policy governance structure;
• Understanding of the role of the Board, and a Board Member’s fiduciary duty;
• Demonstrable ability to exercise discretion, maintain confidentiality and act with integrity;
• Experience developing and assessing position competencies;
• Objective, and people-centric approach to problem solving;
• Willingness to develop a deeper knowledge and understanding of the relevant Professional Governance Act General Regulations, Bylaws, and Board Policy;
• Ability to think critically to make reasoned, objective decisions;
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to work cooperatively with others;
• Awareness and appreciation of procedural fairness and the risks of bias;
• Previous experience in professional regulation and/or as a volunteer in a similar organization is considered an asset;
• Previous experience as a member of a Board is considered an asset.

Time Commitment 

• During an election year, the Committee meets as required to meet its obligations, generally 2-3 virtual
  meetings, as well as meeting for up to two half or two full days to conduct in-person candidate interviews.
• Independent individual preparation to review agenda materials is required in advance of each meeting.

Position: Mentor; open to Architects AIBC or recently Retired Architects (within the last two years)
Term: Ongoing

About the Group

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 registration requirements. Please note that Mentors cannot be employed at the same architectural firm, organization, or practice as the Intern Architect AIBC.

Alongside Intern Architects AIBC, there will also be opportunities to mentor Broadly Experienced Applicants. This is an alternative stream to registration for applicants with alternative qualifications, who 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.

More detailed information about mentorship under the IAP can be found in the Supervising Architect and Mentor Guidelines.

Duties and Expectations

• 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;
• Conduct regular reviews of the Interns progress;
• Share guidance and discuss Interns overall career objectives within the field of architecture.

Skills, Aptitudes, and Experience

• Expertise in and current knowledge of architectural practice in BC;
• Curious, inquisitive and empathetic approach;
• Excellent communication and coaching skills, including the ability to give constructive and empowering feedback;
• Awareness and appreciation of bias, and the challenges it poses;
• Familiarity with the Internship in Architecture Program (IAP) is an asset.
• 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 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 be held virtually.

Position: Oral Examiners; open to Architects AIBC or recently Retired Architects AIBC (within the last 2 years)
Term: Ongoing

About the Group

The Oral Exam is a mandatory component of the registration for Intern Architects and Broadly Experienced Applicants. Former architects who have had a lapse in registration for at least three years may also be required to complete an Oral Exam as part of the reinstatement of registration process. The exam ascertains a candidate’s ability to synthesize their knowledge, experience, and professional judgment into competent architectural practice in B.C.

Examiners form a panel of three to assess candidates, and the exams are generally held in March, June and September every year. Of the three exam seasons, two are conducted virtually and one in person, at the AIBC offices.

This is an ideal opportunity for volunteers wishing to stay updated on current trends in architecture, and to support future architects in their journey to registration.

Duties and Expectations

• Participate effectively in Oral Exam panels;
• Take an objective, fair and inquisitive approach to eliciting responses from examinees;
• Create a space for the examinees to effectively demonstrate the knowledge and experience they possess;
• Knowledge of practice of architecture in BC and willingness to develop a deeper understanding of the regulation of architecture in BC;
• Work collaboratively with the other panelists to review and discuss candidate exam performance, challenge potential assumptions and make reasoned recommendations regarding exam outcomes.

Skills, Aptitudes, and Experience

Successful examiners must satisfy the following prerequisites:

• Minimum 3-5 years’ post-registration experience practicing architecture;
• Have expertise and current knowledge of architectural practice in BC;
• Curious, inquisitive and empathetic approach;
• Ability to think critically, objectively and make reasoned recommendations based on available information;
• Excellent communication skills including the ability to work cooperatively with others and engage in effective, analytical discussion; and
• Awareness and appreciation of bias, and the challenges it poses.

Time Commitment

• This position does not require a monthly commitment and offers flexibility in line with volunteer availability during Oral Exam seasons.
• During each exam administration, volunteers can expect to participate in a minimum of two exams, which last 2 hours. Minimal preparation including reviewing candidate information and reading the Examiner’s Manual will be required.
• Full training will be provided, and prospective examiners will be required to observe at least two exam sessions.

Position: BEA Assessor; open to Architects AIBC or recently Retired Architects AIBC (within the last three years)
Term: Ongoing

About the Group

As part of broadening access to registration for applicants from a wide array of backgrounds, the AIBC maintains a Broadly Experienced Applicants (BEA’s) pathway to registration. The BEA program is unique to the AIBC as it primarily relies on demonstrable architectural experience.

The BEA assessment is a mandatory component of registration, and BEA Assessors ascertain whether applicants’ knowledge and experience meet the Canadian Standard of Competency for Architects and Schedule K: Broadly Experienced Applicant Program Requirements, found in the AIBC Bylaws.

BEA Assessors work closely with the Qualifications Advisory Group, provide feedback and assessment outcomes to the group, and support the group in delivering its mandate. This is an ideal opportunity for volunteers to stay updated on current trends in architecture and assessment practices, and to help ascertain applicants’ competencies if they meet the admission standards for architects.

Assessors are eligible for Recognition payments for their service in conducting Assessments and receive practical and operational guidance from AIBC Staff.

Duties and Expectations

• Assess BEAs written submissions, and participate effectively in BEA assessment panels for oral assessments;
• Take an objective, fair and inquisitive approach to eliciting responses from applicants during the oral assessments;
• Create a space for applicants to effectively demonstrate the knowledge and experience they possess;
• Offer clear and constructive feedback where the applicant’s demonstrated experience and/or knowledge require improvement before they undergo the assessment again;
• Knowledge of practice of architecture in BC and willingness to develop a deeper understanding of assessment practices, and the regulation of architecture in BC;
• Work collaboratively with the other panelists to review and discuss assessment performance, challenge potential assumptions and make reasoned recommendations regarding exam outcomes.
• Work collaboratively with AIBC staff to provide feedback to continuously improve the BEA program.

Skills, Aptitudes and Experience

Successful Assessors must satisfy the following prerequisites:

• Minimum 3 years’ post-registration experience practising architecture;
• Have expertise and current knowledge of architectural practice in BC;
• Curious, inquisitive and empathetic approach;
• Ability to think critically, objectively and make reasoned recommendations based on available information;
• Excellent communication skills including the ability to work cooperatively with others and engage in effective, analytical discussion; and
• Awareness and appreciation of bias, and the challenges it poses.

Time Commitment

• This position does not require a monthly commitment and offers flexibility in line with volunteer availability when BEA applications are ready for assessment.
• Full training will be provided, and prospective examiners will be required to observe at least 2 exam sessions.

Detailed information about the Qualifications Advisory Group, its mandate, operations, and the BEA assessment component can be found in the Qualifications Advisory Group Terms of Reference.

Position: Architect AIBC or Retired Architect AIBC (within the last two years)
Term: Ongoing

About the Group

The Qualifications Advisory Group (‘Group’) assists the AIBC in assessing the qualification of Broadly Experienced Applicants (BEA) for registration as Architect AIBC. The Group assists the AIBC in ensuring these assessments are carried out effectively, fairly, and consistently, and makes recommendations on the continued development of appropriate standards for registration for BEAs. Members of the Group are appointed by the AIBC Chief Executive Officer. The Group reports to the AIBC Credentials Committee.

Duties and Expectations

The following list is not exhaustive but is intended to guide applicants on the key duties and expectations of Group members.

• Consistent attendance of in-person or virtual Group meetings;
• Review BEA written Self-Assessments and project résumés;
• Conduct and participate in interviews (Oral Assessments) to review applicant qualifications and eligibility for registration;
• Take an objective, fair, and consistent approach to eliciting responses from applicants;
• Create a space for BEAs to effectively demonstrate their relevant knowledge and experience;
• Work collaboratively with the other members of the Group to discuss applications, assessment performance and challenge potential assumptions;
• Make reasoned recommendations regarding whether the applicants’ meet the stated requirements for registration;
• Provide feedback and recommendations to AIBC staff and the Credentials Committee regarding certification standards.

Skills, Aptitudes, and Experience

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

• Minimum 3 years post-registration experience practicing architecture;
• Have expertise and current knowledge of architectural practice in BC;
• Familiarity with AIBC registration policies and pathways;
• Curious, inquisitive and empathetic approach;
• Ability to think critically, objectively and make reasoned recommendations based on available information;
• Awareness and appreciation of bias, and the challenges it poses;
• Excellent communication skills including the ability to work cooperatively with others and engage in effective, analytical discussion;
• Interest or experience in the application of competency frameworks to assess qualifications for entry;
• Commitment to the protection of confidentiality and confidential information;
• Commitment to facilitate the progression of applicants towards registration.

Time Commitment

• The group meets on the first Tuesday quarterly and as required.
• Individual time for online application review will be required outside of group meetings.

Detailed information about the advisory group, its mandate and operations can be found in the Qualifications Advisory Group Terms of Reference.

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 Langley
• City of Maple Ridge
• City of Nanaimo
• District of North Vancouver
• District of Oak Bay
• City of Richmond
• District of Saanich
• District of Squamish
• City of Surrey
• University Endowment Lands
• City of Vancouver – Chinatown
• City of Vancouver – Gastown
• City of Vancouver – Urban Design Panel
• City of White Rock
• Municipality of Whistler

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.

Position: Registrant member; open to Architects AIBC, Architectural Technologists AIBC, Intern Architects AIBC, and Retired Architects AIBC.
Term: two years, renewable

About the Group

The Conference Professional Development Advisory Group (“Group”) assists with the planning and coordination of professional development sessions for delivery at AIBC PD Day and AIBC Conference. The Group collaborates to research emerging architectural trends, to select and organize speakers, and participate in the coordination of event logistics.

Detailed information about the duties of the Group, its mandate and operations can be found in the Conference Professional Development Advisory Group Terms of Reference.

Duties and Expectations

The following non-exhaustive list is intended to guide applicants on the key duties and expectations of Group members.

• Consistent attendance of Group meetings;
• Collaborate with AIBC staff to plan and coordinate the professional development sessions for AIBC PD Day and Conference;
• Research and present to the Group suitable topics that can be developed into professional development sessions;
• Contribute to theme development for AIBC Conference;
• Prepare Call(s) for Submissions to attract relevant speakers;
• Assist with speaker selection, including reviewing session proposals received in response to the Call(s) for Submissions;
• Initiate contact with potential speakers and coordinate their engagement;
• Attend meetings with confirmed speakers, such as to facilitate test sessions, or review proposed materials for quality assurance, to ensure adherence with the AIBC’s mandatory Continuing Education System requirements;
• Support event logistics including managing session and speaker schedules, organizing presentation materials, and ensuring smooth on-the-day operations of sessions;
• As required, liaise with the AIBC Conference Steering Team; and
• As required, develop information to be used in event promotional materials.

Skills, Aptitudes, and Experience

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

• Familiarity with the requirements of the AIBC’s mandatory Continuing Education System;
• Curiosity, creativity and a genuine interest in professional development;
• Active involvement or deep interest in the evolving architectural trends;
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to work cooperatively with others;
• Confidence in engaging with potential speakers, sometimes through ‘cold calling’, to invite them to deliver presentations or to coordinate panel discussions;
• Ability to think critically, objectively, and make reasoned recommendations based on available information;
• Previous experience planning, coordinating, or facilitating professional development events is an asset;
• Active engagement and strong connections within the architecture community are an asset.

Time Commitment

• The Group meets on the first and third Tuesday of every month from September to April, with interim meetings scheduled as required.
• Time for individual research will be required outside of group meetings.