4 answers
Lena
Student
North Little Rock, Arkansas
4
Questions
Asked
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What certifications should I get?
I'm an upcoming 9th grader for 2025. I plan to go into architecture when I'm in college, and have been planning it for the past year or two now. Are there any certifications that I should think of getting this summer, architecture/engineering related or not? Are there any good volunteer ideas?
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4 answers
Taylor Heymann
HR Advisor
1
Answer
Syracuse, New York
Updated
Taylor’s Answer
Hi Lena! Great to hear that you are being so proactive about your career. We encourage you to enjoy the remainder of your high school years and take advantage of all of the opportunities that will come your way! Below are some ideas of how you could learn what you like and don't like in these spaces, but please keep in mind that you have time to figure it out. It doesn't need to be solved today, so enjoy the learning opportunities ahead!
1. Design Camps by AIA Arkansas: https://statics.teams.cdn.office.net/evergreen-assets/safelinks/1/atp-safelinks.html
Location: University of Arkansas, Fayetteville
Details: These camps offer hands-on experience in design and architecture. They are scheduled for summer 2024, with both in-person and virtual options available
2. AEGIS Summer Programs: https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Offices/learning-services/gt-ap/aegis
Location: Various locations in Arkansas
Details: These programs provide academic enrichment for gifted and talented students, including those interested in architecture and engineering
And here are some great volunteer opportunities as well!
1. Habitat for Humanity: Volunteering with this organization can give you hands-on experience in building and construction.
2. Freedom by Design: This program, run by the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS), uses the talents of architecture students to impact communities through design and construction
Best of luck on your journey! You will do amazing things!
1. Design Camps by AIA Arkansas: https://statics.teams.cdn.office.net/evergreen-assets/safelinks/1/atp-safelinks.html
Location: University of Arkansas, Fayetteville
Details: These camps offer hands-on experience in design and architecture. They are scheduled for summer 2024, with both in-person and virtual options available
2. AEGIS Summer Programs: https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Offices/learning-services/gt-ap/aegis
Location: Various locations in Arkansas
Details: These programs provide academic enrichment for gifted and talented students, including those interested in architecture and engineering
And here are some great volunteer opportunities as well!
1. Habitat for Humanity: Volunteering with this organization can give you hands-on experience in building and construction.
2. Freedom by Design: This program, run by the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS), uses the talents of architecture students to impact communities through design and construction
Best of luck on your journey! You will do amazing things!
Thank you so much! I'll definitely look into these. The design camp from the University of Arkansas is the one I recently did over the summer, but it was virtual that time. I want to do it again this year.
Lena
Lilliana Ramos
HR Generalist
2
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Lilliana’s Answer
Hi Lena,
Great question! I would recommend job shadowing an architect or engineer where you can to see what you like from the day to day work. You could also look into volunteering at Habitat for Humanity or a similar organization to learn more about buildings. As for certifications, look into CAD, LEED and any other design type of courses or certifications you'd be eligible to take and learn from. Classes in high school and community college could also help supplement your learning in Art, Physics and beyond. AP Art may also help you build up a portfolio for you to use for college admissions. Look into what's available in your local area!
Best of luck with the start of your journey!
Great question! I would recommend job shadowing an architect or engineer where you can to see what you like from the day to day work. You could also look into volunteering at Habitat for Humanity or a similar organization to learn more about buildings. As for certifications, look into CAD, LEED and any other design type of courses or certifications you'd be eligible to take and learn from. Classes in high school and community college could also help supplement your learning in Art, Physics and beyond. AP Art may also help you build up a portfolio for you to use for college admissions. Look into what's available in your local area!
Best of luck with the start of your journey!
Thank you so much! Over the recent summer, I did an online, week-long architecture program from the University of Arkansas. I will definitely be looking into some more art classes in highschool.
Lena
Heidi Kraemer
Employee Engagement
3
Answers
Rosemount, Minnesota
Updated
Heidi’s Answer
Hello Lena,
I've just stepped into retirement from my tenure at IBM and during my time there, I discovered a fantastic resource that I believe could be of immense value to you. IBM offers a completely free platform where you can earn certifications in a diverse range of areas. Whether you're interested in STEM, mental health, or project management, there's something for everyone. It's a wonderful opportunity to expand your knowledge and acquire unique qualifications. Visit https://skillsbuild.org/ to explore these educational resources.
I've just stepped into retirement from my tenure at IBM and during my time there, I discovered a fantastic resource that I believe could be of immense value to you. IBM offers a completely free platform where you can earn certifications in a diverse range of areas. Whether you're interested in STEM, mental health, or project management, there's something for everyone. It's a wonderful opportunity to expand your knowledge and acquire unique qualifications. Visit https://skillsbuild.org/ to explore these educational resources.
Rich Bianculli
Regional Director - Network Strategy Department
19
Answers
Alpharetta, Georgia
Updated
Rich’s Answer
Certifications to Consider
While architecture-specific certifications are typically pursued in college or later, here are some relevant options to start with:
1. Design and Software Skills
AutoCAD Certification: Learn and get certified in computer-aided design (CAD) software. Autodesk offers beginner courses.
SketchUp Certification: A user-friendly 3D modeling tool often used in architecture.
Adobe Creative Suite: Certifications in Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign can be valuable for creating presentations or portfolios.
2. Construction and Safety Basics
OSHA Certification (10-Hour Course): Basic knowledge of workplace safety, particularly helpful for understanding construction site safety.
3. Math and Engineering Foundations
Microsoft Excel Certification: Useful for creating project schedules and managing budgets.
Introduction to Engineering: Some online platforms offer introductory engineering certifications, like Coursera or edX.
4. General Skills
Public Speaking Certification: Through programs like Toastmasters or local leadership clubs, to develop presentation skills needed in architecture.
Volunteer Ideas
Volunteering can help you build relevant experience while contributing to your community:
1. Habitat for Humanity
Get hands-on experience with construction and design while helping build homes for families in need.
2. Local Architecture Firms
Volunteer as an assistant or shadow architects. Reach out to firms in your area to see if they offer internships or allow student volunteers.
3. Community Design Projects
Look for community projects like park redesigns or art installations where you can contribute creatively.
4. Museums or Historical Preservation Societies
Volunteer at places focused on architecture, such as museums, or organizations that restore historic buildings.
5. STEM Outreach Programs
Participate in programs that promote STEM education and help other students learn about engineering and design.
Other Productive Summer Activities
Summer Programs:
Join architecture summer camps or programs hosted by universities or online platforms like Architecture Summer Programs.
Portfolio Development:
Start sketching, drawing, or designing structures and compile them into a portfolio. This will be invaluable when applying for architecture programs in college.
Learning Online:
Take online courses on platforms like Udemy or LinkedIn Learning related to architecture or structural design.
Visit Architectural Sites:
Explore iconic buildings or local architectural landmarks to observe and analyze their design.
While architecture-specific certifications are typically pursued in college or later, here are some relevant options to start with:
1. Design and Software Skills
AutoCAD Certification: Learn and get certified in computer-aided design (CAD) software. Autodesk offers beginner courses.
SketchUp Certification: A user-friendly 3D modeling tool often used in architecture.
Adobe Creative Suite: Certifications in Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign can be valuable for creating presentations or portfolios.
2. Construction and Safety Basics
OSHA Certification (10-Hour Course): Basic knowledge of workplace safety, particularly helpful for understanding construction site safety.
3. Math and Engineering Foundations
Microsoft Excel Certification: Useful for creating project schedules and managing budgets.
Introduction to Engineering: Some online platforms offer introductory engineering certifications, like Coursera or edX.
4. General Skills
Public Speaking Certification: Through programs like Toastmasters or local leadership clubs, to develop presentation skills needed in architecture.
Volunteer Ideas
Volunteering can help you build relevant experience while contributing to your community:
1. Habitat for Humanity
Get hands-on experience with construction and design while helping build homes for families in need.
2. Local Architecture Firms
Volunteer as an assistant or shadow architects. Reach out to firms in your area to see if they offer internships or allow student volunteers.
3. Community Design Projects
Look for community projects like park redesigns or art installations where you can contribute creatively.
4. Museums or Historical Preservation Societies
Volunteer at places focused on architecture, such as museums, or organizations that restore historic buildings.
5. STEM Outreach Programs
Participate in programs that promote STEM education and help other students learn about engineering and design.
Other Productive Summer Activities
Summer Programs:
Join architecture summer camps or programs hosted by universities or online platforms like Architecture Summer Programs.
Portfolio Development:
Start sketching, drawing, or designing structures and compile them into a portfolio. This will be invaluable when applying for architecture programs in college.
Learning Online:
Take online courses on platforms like Udemy or LinkedIn Learning related to architecture or structural design.
Visit Architectural Sites:
Explore iconic buildings or local architectural landmarks to observe and analyze their design.