Coming off of his whirlwind experiences and dedicated service as 2019 American Insititute of Architects (AIA) National President, William (Bill) J. Bates, FAIA, is stepping into a newly appointed role.
The two-time AIA PA President has been named to the State Architects Licensure Board. The licensing body is responsible for regulating the practice of architecture for the protection of the health, safety, welfare of the Commonwealth’s residents, and the betterment of the profession. Bill shared, “I’m honored to have been appointed to the Board and privileged to serve the profession and the commonwealth.”
A fervent advocate of licensure, one of Bill’s many advocacy priorities during his tenure as AIA National President was working with NCARB to thwart the mounting threats to eliminate professional licensing in other states to ensure the health, safety, and wellbeing of the public. Bill added, “It [the work of the Licensure Board] is very important work that connects with the mission of NCARB.”
Bill acknowledges the role of the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB)‘s evolving architectural education standards as another important consideration for the Licensure Board and the advancement of the profession, “That dovetails with the professional exam and issues around potential continuing education which are both relevant to licensure of architects in the future.”
AIA Pennsylvania advocates for and supports the appointments of members that uphold the highest standards of practice and professional conduct as demonstrated through experience and leadership. Bill is joined by fellow, new appointee Aram Piligian Jr., AIA. They join the following AIA Pennsylvania members currently serving on the State Architects Licensure Board.
- Phillip Leinbach, AIA – Board President
- Mary McClenaghan, AIA, NCARB – Board Member
- Jerry Roller, AIA, LEED AP – Board Secretary