SELECTING: WHAT DOES AN ARCHITECT DO?
So, the last essay began our series on Selecting a Program; the first step to the process was to answer the question – Why Architecture? Now, we focus on the tasks of an architect to ensure you know the end goal – the hard part is actually defining those tasks.
As you might imagine, there are a number of resources to explore the career of an architect; one in particular that we have used in from the U.S. Government. Below you can learn what architects typically do from the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH); it should be shared that if you have questions on any career field that requires a university education, the OOH is a great resource to start.
Occupational Outlook Handbook
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/architects.htm
Architects typically do the following:
- Meet with clients to determine objectives and requirements for structures
- Give preliminary estimates on cost and construction time
- Prepare structure specifications
- Direct workers who prepare drawings and documents
- Prepare scaled drawings, either with computer software or by hand
- Prepare contract documents for building contractors
- Manage construction contracts
- Visit worksites to ensure that construction adheres to architectural plans
- Seek new work by marketing and giving presentations
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Architects,
on the Internet at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/architects.htm (visited September 01, 2020).
Another source to learn from is a new publication done by the firm HKS (See below); while I only list the active verbs, please refer to the publication for more details.
Getting Into Architecture
https://www.stephenlawrencetrust.org/slctnews/into-archiecture/
Research
Team Work
Design
Develop
Engage
Present
And, finally, below is a YouTube video that outlines what architects do. If you are a visual learner, viewing the video may be a better choice. No worries, it is only about three minutes in length.
What Architects Do – The American Institute of Architects
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTudH-4BysA
Of course, perhaps the best approach to truly learn what an architect is to talk with one or better shadow one for a day.
As always, let us know if you have questions by contacting us at archcareersguide@gmail.com