February 2026 Letter from the Chair

AIA Small Firm Exchange (SFx)

Darguin Fortuna, AIA, NCARB

February has been a meaningful and energizing month as I had the privilege of attending the AIA Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C., representing the Small Firm Exchange and the many voices of small firm architects across the country. I want to begin by expressing my sincere gratitude to our State Representatives and Board members for electing me as Chair and entrusting me with the responsibility of advocating on your behalf at Capitol Hill.

The Leadership Summit was both an inspiring and humbling experience. It provided an opportunity to develop skills that many of us, as practicing architects, are not always exposed to — policy advocacy, legislative engagement, and navigating the broader systems that shape our profession. More importantly, it was an opportunity to bring the perspective of small firms directly into national conversations while representing not only the SFx community but also my home state of Massachusetts.

Advocating for the Profession

During our meetings on Capitol Hill, I participated in discussions addressing critical issues affecting architects and the built environment, including affordable housing and housing stock preservation, educational accessibility, and policies that shape how architecture is practiced and valued at the federal level.

One recurring theme was the importance of recognizing architects as professionals capable of innovation, adaptation, and leadership. Architecture cannot be defined by a single stylistic mandate or a one-size-fits-all approach. Our profession evolves alongside materials, technologies, and the needs of society. Just as architects throughout history embraced the tools and innovations available in their time, today’s architects must be empowered to explore contemporary solutions that reflect current realities and future aspirations.

Advocacy also included addressing challenges that disproportionately affect architects from diverse and economically constrained backgrounds — including the financial barriers associated with professional education and licensure pathways. These issues are deeply personal to many of us and directly influence who can enter and thrive within the profession.

Governance Changes: Challenge and Opportunity

Perhaps the most significant conversations during the Summit centered on proposed changes to AIA governance structures. These proposals are well-intentioned and aim to modernize and strengthen the Institute; however, they also raise important questions about representation — particularly for small firms.

The Small Firm Exchange occupies a unique and essential position within AIA. Unlike Knowledge Communities, which focus on specific aspects of practice or areas of expertise, and unlike pipeline groups that represent career stages, SFx represents the reality of practice itself for the majority of firms within the Institute.

Small firms comprise approximately 70–75% of architecture practices. We are not an add-on to the profession; we are its foundation.

Bundling small firm representation within broader structures without recognizing this distinct role risks unintentionally diluting the voice of practitioners who are deeply embedded in local communities and who represent the day-to-day face of architecture across the nation.

At the same time, I see this moment not only as a challenge but as an opportunity — an opportunity for small firms to reclaim and redefine our place within AIA governance. This requires thoughtful engagement, collective input, and active participation from all of us.

I strongly encourage all members to review the proposed governance changes, participate in upcoming discussions, and share feedback. A town hall meeting is scheduled for March 3 at 4:00 PM, and I urge everyone to attend and contribute their perspective.

The Role of Small Firms in AIA’s Future

It is my belief — and the way I see small firms within our profession — that we represent the true foundation of architecture on the ground. Not simply in terms of volume or presence, but in how we practice, engage, and lead at the most immediate level. Small firms are often the closest to the communities we serve, working directly with nonprofits, local governments, small businesses, and individuals whose projects shape the everyday built environment.

While larger firms may lead projects that span years and regions, small firms operate where architecture meets daily life — responding quickly, adapting continuously, and maintaining direct relationships with the people and places we serve. This proximity allows us to understand challenges in real time and to implement innovation at a human scale.

Innovation frequently begins within small firms. We adopt new technologies quickly, cultivate versatile professionals, and provide opportunities for architects to develop broad skill sets early in their careers. Many architects begin their journeys in small firms, carrying those foundational experiences throughout their professional lives.

Recent industry reports also demonstrate that small firms are evolving — offering competitive compensation, benefits, and opportunities that challenge long-standing assumptions about firm size and career paths.

As Chair, my focus remains clear:

• Strengthening pathways for small firm recognition, including new award opportunities.

• Expanding access to Fellowship for small firm leaders.

• Advocating for equitable resources, tools, and pricing structures that acknowledge the realities of smaller practices.

• Ensuring that small firm voices are meaningfully represented in AIA leadership and governance.

Moving Forward Together

The Leadership Summit reinforced what I have always believed: small firms are not simply participants within AIA — we are essential to its future.

This year will bring important conversations and decisions that shape how our profession evolves. I invite you to stay engaged, share your insights, and help us ensure that small firm perspectives remain central to the Institute’s direction.

Thank you for your continued trust, leadership, and dedication to the profession.

With gratitude,

Darguin Fortuna, AIA, NCARB, NOMA
2026 Chair, AIA Small Firm Exchange