When I became a licensed architect I had no idea that the licensing law was reviewed every 7 years and was subject to Sunset Review. I had worked hard to become educated and licensed and it could all be eliminated. That was a shock. AIA Colorado works with the Department of Regulatory Agencies to be certain that the law is written to the architects best interests and that it does not expire. In this case my interest is the same as a large firm.
AIA Colorado provides a state design conference where I can get all of my learning units. These are not product lunch and learns, but presentations by some of the most original architects in the world. When I first started my firm, I considered skipping the conference, but I find it so intellecually stimulating and energizing that I always want to go. Yes, I pay for the conference, but less than it costs to produce. My dues subsidize the high quality of speakers.
Every year the interior designers have a bill at the State Legislature to modify othe architect's licensing law and include them. This would take some work reserved for architects and give it to interior designers. AIA gets members to the legislature to testify on my behalf. Once again, my interest is the same as a large firm and AIA is protecting my interests.
AIA national provides me access to contracts which are written in my best interest. I could not hire a lawyer to write one contract for the price of my dues.
I can download one for $20.00.
While we have no choice about the cost of national dues and the way they are spent. We each have a lot to say about the local programs and how our state and local dues are used. Your fellow architects at the State and local level determine those dues increases and the programs provided by State and local chapters.
I have been a sole practioner since 2004 and an AIA member since 1992. I have been active in both my local chapter and on the State of Colorado Board, so I am informed about the way our dues and staff time are spent.
I agree it is expensive, but I need someone to look out for my interests. I served on the Colorado Board to represent the large number of us who work in small firms. Someone does need to be there to speak up for us and tell AIA what we need.
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Gail Pelsue AIA
Principal
Pelsue Architecture, LLC
Denver CO
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