Come January I will no longer be
eligible to actively practice architecture as I will have relinquished my
professional registration. In keeping with OAR 806-010-0075 this
means I will not be able to offer services related to the planning, designing, or
observing of the erection, enlargement, or alteration of any building or of any
appurtenance thereto other than exempted buildings. And in accordance with ORS 671.020 I won’t
be able to use the title of “Architect” or any title, sign, cards, or device
indicating, or tending to indicate that I am practicing architecture or continue
to be an architect.
While this change will mark
the official end of my professional career in architecture, I will be able to
retain formal recognition of my contributions to the field. In Oregon, the title
“Architect Emeritus” is available for eligible retired architects. The benefits
of the Emeritus status include being allowed to keep a professional title
without the responsibilities of active practice. It also simplifies the process
of returning to active practice in the future if I wanted (unlikely, but it is
nice the option for reinstatement is there for me).
To qualify for Emeritus
status, an architect must be at least 60 years old and have practiced
architecture in a recognized jurisdiction for a minimum of 20 years.
Additionally, they must have held an Oregon certificate of registration as an
individual architect for at least 10 consecutive years. Because I am 65 years
old and have practiced architecture for 39 years— the last 35 of them in Oregon—I
easily fulfill these requirements.
The application process
involved submitting a complete application to the Oregon State Board of Architect Examiners (OSBAE) and obtaining written approval, which I have received.
Notably, there are no fees associated with obtaining or maintaining Emeritus
status.
The American Institute of
Architects likewise offers complimentary Emeritus membership status to its
retired members. The requirements for AIA Member Emeritus status include a
minimum of 25 years of membership in the institute, being retired (no longer
signing or sealing architectural drawings, marketing services as an architect,
and refraining from establishing a firm or business name that implies a
continuation of architectural practice) and being 70 years of age or older. Since
I’m only 65, I applied for a waiver of the age requirement, which the AIA
approved. I can now use the title of “AIA Member Emeritus” in my correspondence
and will continue to enjoy the full suite of AIA benefits. These benefits
include member discounts for attendance at AIA-sponsored events, the AIA member
newsletter, and various AIA-affiliated consumer and trade discounts.
The transition to Emeritus
status feels like both an end and a beginning. To further acknowledge my
transition from licensed practitioner to retiree, I have changed the name of
this blogsite to SW Oregon Architect Emeritus. With this move, I promise
to explore new ways to engage the built environment, not as a practitioner but
as an observer and advocate. Whether visiting architectural landmarks, contemplating
the future of design, or enjoying simpler pursuits, I will continue to share my
insights and discoveries along the way.
Thanks as always for joining
me on this journey—I’m excited to see where it leads.
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