Nearly 300 students, architects, and educators from across the U.S. recently gathered for a three-day architect licensing advisors training event in Minneapolis. Often providing licensure candidates with their first glimpse into the licensure process, advisors play a critical role in candidates successfully navigating NCARB’s programs and meeting licensure and reciprocity requirements.
From July 24-26, 2025, the volunteer licensing advisors participated in hands-on workshops, networked with peers, and listened to presentations to learn new strategies and skills for successfully guiding candidates through the architectural licensure process—including tips for communicating about NCARB’s Pathways to Practice initiative and the future of architectural licensure.
On Friday, July 24, NCARB’s 2025-2026 President Edward T. Marley, FAIA, NCARB, LEED AP, and CEO Mike Armstrong welcomed attendees and shared a preview of the weekend. After that, attendees could choose between several different breakout sessions and workshops on topics ranging from helping students transition from school to practice, to preparing students to take the Architect Registration Examination ® (ARE®), to learning about NCARB’s new Competency Standard for Architects and how it will shape the future of NCARB’s programs.
On Friday afternoon, attendees heard a keynote presentation from Dr. Amy Chasteen on understanding generational dynamics, social shifts, and inclusive coaching strategies.
Change is inevitable in professions. Providing effective guidance during times of transition and uncertainty requires expertise, empathy, and authentic communication that reassures and motivates.
–Amy L. Chasteen, Ph.D. | 2025 Licensing Advisors Summit Keynote
On Saturday, attendees got the opportunity to attend more interactive sessions exploring topics related to managing seasons of change, coaching candidates—including ones still dealing with the impacts of COVID-19—and supporting international licensure candidates. The weekend concluded with an event recap from NCARB CEO Mike Armstrong and President Ed Marley.
NCARB’s next Licensing Advisors Summit will be held in 2027. All architect licensing advisors are invited to attend NCARB’s biennial training summits and have access to NCARB’s online advisors' community and other training resources.
Learn more about the roles and responsibilities of architect licensing advisors and reach out to advisors@ncarb.org if you’re interested in becoming a licensing advisor for your school, firm, or AIA chapter.
