The eighth and final episode of the NCARB Podcast about Pathways to Practice is now available.
Episode 8: Where Do We Go From Here?
This season, we’ve explored everything from the history of licensure to the research shaping recent program changes. In the latest installment, host Andy McIntyre explores the policy and regulatory steps needed to implement new licensure pathways, as well as what candidates and architects can expect in the years ahead.
First, Mike Kolejka, chair of NCARB’s Policy Advisory Committee, explains how we’re translating Pathways to Practice into policy. Program changes go through layers of review and revision, often requiring approval from the Board of Directors or NCARB’s licensing boards. “How do we make this into a resolution that the membership can digest, understand, and ultimately, hopefully, vote in favor of?” asked Mike, who is also a member of the Arizona state licensing board. “There is a true desire to open up more opportunities for people to become licensed as architects, but at the same time, also making sure that we are focused on maintaining the rigor that is necessary to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public.”
Next, Andy speaks with Jared Zurn, NCARB’s chief programs officer, about potential implementation timelines and candidate transition planning. Jared predicts that candidates will likely see a framework for the new pathways in 2028 or 2029. “[Candidates are] going to then make that decision about whether they want to just get done under the current process,” said Jared. “Some candidates might decide: No, I actually see some better opportunities with the new process and will then plan a transition.” Jared also shared that there will be at least a two-year overlap between the rollout of new programs, so candidates will have ample time to choose the path that best fits their goals.
About This Podcast
Season two of the NCARB Podcast focuses on our ongoing Pathways to Practice initiative, which aims to create a more accessible yet equally rigorous licensure process. This podcast series explores the history of architectural licensure and regulation in the United States, as well as the evolution of NCARB’s current education, experience, and examination licensure requirements. It also provides a preview into the future of architectural licensure: a competency-based framework that allows for several different types of assessments to ensure that qualified candidates can enter the profession, regardless of their professional or educational background.
Stream all episodes and catch up on season one—which focused on NCARB by the Numbers—by subscribing to the NCARB Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform.
