I am both happy and humbled to be nominated for a position on the Ontario Association of Architects (OAA) Council once again. It was a privilege to serve on council in the past, and I reflect on that time with pride and gratitude. My previous appointments on the Disciplinary and International Relations Committees gave me the opportunity to address key challenges and explore innovative licensing models. I was especially passionate about expanding opportunities for foreign-trained architects to practice in Ontario and creating pathways for Canadian architects to work internationally.

Throughout my tenure, I raised concerns about the future of our profession—particularly regarding BCIN licenses, architectural technologists, and the evolving needs of architectural training. One of my core goals has been to diversify education and licensing options, promoting concurrent internships and education programs to streamline the path to licensure. I also advocated for a two-stage licensing model: one for Part 9 buildings and another encompassing both Part 3 and Part 9, similar to strategies successfully implemented in other countries. These efforts are crucial to ensure that our profession evolves to meet new challenges without compromising the integrity of architectural practice.

A priority for me remains improving the experience of interns and junior architects, who often find themselves trapped in prolonged internships and relegated to lower office positions. I will continue to champion better integration of interns into project roles and provide them with a stronger voice within the OAA. The growth and sustainability of our profession depend on creating a clear pathway for these emerging professionals to meaningfully contribute and advance.

Succession planning has become another pressing issue in architectural practice. Many firms have not adequately prepared for leadership transitions, relying on outdated share-purchase models that are inaccessible to junior staff. I would advocate for the OAA to develop succession programs that address these financial barriers, taking inspiration from models used in the legal profession and tech startups. These programs can empower architects to create sustainable transitions that protect their firm’s legacy while fostering knowledge continuity. I

It would be an honour to serve on council again. I believe I bring a unique perspective rooted in a commitment to modernizing architectural practice. My focus is on creating a more inclusive, agile, and forward-thinking profession that equips architects to meet the demands of today and tomorrow. With your support, I look forward to contributing to a dynamic future for the OAA and the architects we represent.

Questions and Answers