The American Institute of Architects, California Council, recently announced the new recipients of the Academy for Emerging Professionals (AEP) Awards.

The Emerging Professionals are the segment of the AIACC membership that establishes connections, and advocates for architecture school graduates, aspiring and recently-licensed architects, as well as individuals that mentor this important group. According to the AIACC, the Academy for Emerging Professionals “aspires to unite and disseminate information regarding the practice of architecture, firm culture, mentoring, and stimulate ongoing local, state and national discussions.”

Four awards were announced:

Firm Mentorship Award – Darden Architects, Inc., Fresno. This award is given to an AIACC firm that has made an extraordinary effort to mentor Emerging Professionals in their firm through the implementation of specific programs. The jury stated, “Darden Architects, Inc. have set a standard of mentorship that stands out locally, statewide and nationally”

Chapter Award – AIA San Joaquin. This award is given to an AIA chapter for the development of superb programming and fostering the highest qualities of leadership within the Emerging Professional membership. The jury stated, “This chapter has demonstrated its belief that the future of the profession rests in the Emerging Professionals and it is committed to helping this group reach their personal and professional goals.”

Associates Award – Julie Jaurique-Chipps, associate AIA, Darden Architects. This award is given to an associate AIA member who best exemplifies the highest qualities of leadership and has demonstrated unparalleled commitment to his/her chapter or region’s membership, in the community, professional organizations, and in the design and construction industries. The jury stated, “Julie exemplifies the values of the AEP and the profession, and has built a robust associates program in her chapter.”

Young Architect Award – Kevin deFreitas, AIA, Kevin deFreitas Architects, San Diego. This award is given to a young architect who has shown exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to the profession in an early stage of his/her architectural career. The jury stated, “Kevin was inspired to design and develop urban in-fill projects and began self developing projects that realized more holistic solutions integrating sustainable strategies.”