Introduction
Step into leadership with the AIA PA Civic Architect & Leadership Cohort. This program develops a class of design professionals into civic leaders by refining the critical skills that these professionals need to better represent the people that they serve. We do this by increasing their connections to their communities, developing their advocacy capacities, and supporting their pursuit of public service in elected or appointed office.
Apply for the 2026 program by May 15!
Vision
In just six months, you will:
- Build real connections with civic leaders and community stakeholders
- Strengthen your voice through communication and advocacy training
- Develop ideas that can shape policy and community outcomes
- Present directly to Pennsylvania legislators in Harrisburg
Whether you’re curious about public service, advocacy, or simply expanding your influence—this program meets you where you are and helps you gro
Program Dates:
June 2026 – December 2026
How is this Program Available: This program is free of charge to AIA PA members and is funded throught the AIA Pennsylvania Government Affairs Committee.
Structure
The six-month program runs June through December and will consist of three development sessions, two sub groups to work together on new policy, and one possibly two public events, each of which contributes to building a framework for engagement. All of this work except the public events will take place virtually.
The developmental sessions will consist of;
- Pennsylvania Government 101
- Presentation & Communication Training
- Writing Training
The AIA PA Civic Architect & Leadership Cohort encourages participants to find their own voice and choose topics to explore. Topics may include public interest design, land use and public space, community engagement and relations, public development and infrastructure, sustainability and resiliency, funding and financial support, political obstacles and opportunities, and new business models. The program will concoude with presentation in Harrisburg to individual Sentators or Representatives that can support the programs or policies that the group would like to introduce.