www.tcarchitecture.ca
Provide a brief summary of your practice experience.
My name is Michael Cogan, and I would like to serve on OAA Council.
Before moving to Toronto nearly 20 years ago, I worked internationally as a co-op student. Since then, I have worked at several architectural firms before joining the City of Toronto Building Department. I received my architectural license 14 years ago and established my own practice 12 years ago.
My work continues to span a broad range of project types and scales, from master planning, commercial and high-rise residential developments to custom homes. I remain involved throughout the entire process, from concept design through architectural detailing and contract administration.
As the owner of a small-to-medium-sized practice, I am active in the day-to-day management of the business and understand the internal and external forces that shape our profession. I recognize the importance of both short- and long-term management strategies, as well as fiduciary responsibility. I would consider myself an experienced and well-rounded architect—experienced enough to expect the unexpected, yet still capable of being surprised.
Provide a brief summary of your previous governance experience (boards, councils, committees, advisory groups, etc.).
While much of my career has been devoted to building and maintaining my practice, I have also participated in several groups, including a community planning association and the zoning interpretation team within the Building Department. I continue to work closely with the City’s planning and building departments on issues that extend beyond the specifics of individual projects.
Why are you interested in serving on Council at this time?
If elected, one of my priorities would be to strengthen communication between the OAA and municipal and other government bodies. Whether dealing with building, planning, or other regulatory departments, I find that a disproportionate amount of time is spent navigating cumbersome processes and, at times, somewhat punitive interpretations of regulations.
What do you believe are the key challenges or priorities for Council over the next one to three years?
Over the next few years, the pace of change affecting our profession is likely to continue accelerating. Legislative changes, economic challenges, and the growing role of artificial intelligence will all have an increasing impact on how we practice architecture. Council will need to anticipate and understand the implications of these changes and help members adapt, respond, and stay ahead of the curve.
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