AIA Young Architects Forum

The Young Architects Forum (YAF) is a member group of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is organized to address issues of particular importance to recently licensed architects (within 10 years or less of first licensure). The YAF is an outgrowth of a 1989 AIA Grassroots program involving 36 young architects from around the nation assembled by then AIA President Ben Brewer, Jr. FAIA. The issues raised and potential benefits visualized at that meeting led to the 1991 formation of a national YAF Advisory Committee, to encourage the development of national and regional programs of interest to young architects and the creation of YAF groups within local chapters. We ENGAGE recently licensed architects in leadership to become agents of change within the Institute and the profession overall. We INSPIRE professional growth among recently licensed architects through fellowship within the Institute. We ADVOCATE for issues of particular relevance to recently licensed architects to the Institute. We SERVE to make AIA memberships meaningful to recently licensed architects through programs and services that effectively anticipate, meet, and exceed their needs. We PROMOTE mentorship at all career stages to enhance personal growth, community involvement, and professional development. We believe in promoting leadership, mentorship, and collegiality for the future of the architecture profession. The YAF Strategic Initiative for 2023-2027 is Architects in Action: Catalyzing Change in the Profession. This is channeled into three priority areas: Advocate for Change, Educate for Impact, & Diversify for the Future.