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What does an architect do?

Architects are responsible for designing and planning new construction projects. These projects are commonly new buildings and monuments. Architects create blueprints that outline building design elements, giving construction crews detailed instructions for creating buildings and other structures.

Architects often use hand-drawn sketches to quickly capture rough ideas. Then, they recreate sketches using design software. Architects often use modeling software, such as computer-aided design like AutoCAD, which allows them to revise models until they fully meet a client’s needs.

What skills do I need to become an architect?

Architects need to have a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in architecture, civil engineering, or a related field.

Once you’ve earned your degree, you can register with your local architects registration board. These steps exist to ensure a minimum level of safety for business and residential occupants.

Beyond a professional degree, architects also benefit from certain key skills and competencies:

• Knowledge of engineering ethics and architectural design principles. Architects need to understand key elements of the architecture industry, including ethics and design principles. These details contribute to the quality of an architect's work.
• Interior and exterior design expertise. Work experience in multiple settings makes architects versatile and prepares them for future jobs.
• Crystal-clear communication skills. Architects often collaborate with many other professionals, including drafters and project managers. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential to keeping all team members updated.
• Project management experience. Architects who can manage deadlines and keep teams working together well can help to ensure that projects stay on track and are successful.
• Drafting and measurement knowledge. A knowledge of drafting and measurements is key to the accuracy of an architect’s plans. In addition to this specialized knowledge, architects also need to have strong geometry and calculus skills to support their drafting and validate the blueprints’ accuracy.
• Drawing skills. While architects often use software, they frequently draft out plans by hand in advance. Strong drawing skills are important to creating quality initial drafts.
• Problem-solving talents. Architects need to be able to think critically, pay attention to detail, and come up with solutions to the many problems they could face during a single project, from issues with deadlines to troubleshooting site layout issues.

Should I get an architect certification?

In addition to developing your skills, it may be necessary to obtain a professional certification or licensure to help your Upwork profile stand out. Becoming a licensed architect typically requires three years of training, and you’ll likely have to complete an internship in the field.

The National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), an agency that evaluates architecture programs in the US to ensure that graduates have the skills required to have an architectural profession, offers several certifications that can make you more competitive:

• National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) certification
• Certified Technical Architect
• Certified Solution Architect
• Architect Registration Examination

NCARB certification is not a must-have, but clients will likely pay more to work with an architect who carries this certification.

What are the job responsibilities of an architect?

As an architect, you should expect to take on responsibilities such as construction planning, 2D and 3D modeling, blueprint drafting, hand sketching, and brainstorming new and innovative design ideas while following education requirements and licensing requirements. In states with strict building codes, such as New York and California, licensed architects spend long hours ensuring that all of their employees follow the regulations to the fullest.

Outside of the design side of architecture, you may be expected to perform a materials analysis. You might also need to calculate the strength of materials and determine how long they would last or how much force it would take to break them. Depending on the software used, physics simulations may help you to determine the results of a critical part failure.

Most architects become employees at a mid-sized or large architectural firm, or are self-employed at their own firm. You will be communicating with clients, managing timelines, delivering content, and seeking and acting on feedback from your clients.