Shine The light
June 2024
Shine the Light is a new series on our members whose passionate efforts advance and align with our values, visibility and voice. In this first issue, we feature Michelle Montgomery, AIA, Chair of the Emerging Professionals (EP) Committee. The Emerging Professionals Committee is a special project committee formed in 2020 to promote alignment between the chapters and collaboration on resources and efforts around the ARE and event planning. The Global Mentorship Program came about in 2021 during the pandemic, when there was a level of uncertainty in the industry and a strong desire to connect. It has grown to be an inspiring model of collaboration horizontally across the chapters and sections. Congratulations on this awesome initiative to Michelle and Elaine Wong, Assoc. AIA of AIA UK as co-chairs!
Below is a summary of a conversation between Michelle and Yew Kee Cheong:
YKC: Your ability to engage members across state and chapter components is very inspiring. What are some challenges you faced? Was there a moment of doubt there would be buy-in?
MM: Initially, it was a challenging thought to work so broadly across the world without the assurance of participation. Luckily, the appetite for mentorship was present, and the support received from each Chapter and leadership let us know we were on the right path. This support continues today, as the program is a resource for Chapters, Sections and Country Representatives to encourage membership by collaborating on other projects also, as we seek to connect with young architects, assist in building EP Committees and cross pollinate ideas. The work is enjoyed and the feedback received over the years on the impact of the program in their careers is rewarding.
YKC: Tell me more about the Global Mentorship Program.
MM: This program is set to bring forward the next generation of global leaders in our industry. Pairing mentors and mentees, it runs for 8 months and includes a monthly virtual speaker series focused on professional development topics. We welcome all interested in the virtual session to attend, no registration is required to join us. For more information, follow AIA International on social media or go to the Upcoming Events page on the website.
YKC: Finally, please share an exciting wish list for the future of the EP Committee.
MM: For the committee, I have three initiatives I would like to launch. Creating a small business exchange as part of the mentorship program will assist in the unique seasoned architect mentee to mentor dynamic we now find in the program. A second project I would love to grow for young architects is to add an online ARE study program such as Amber Book for those pursuing US licensure. A third project is to work with AIA National on making programming available to AIA International chapters more accessible throughout the year through virtual attendance, chapter sponsored attendance, or an AIAU option.
Yew Kee Cheong, FAIA, MSIA
2024-2025 AIA International President
2024 President, AIA Southeast Asia
yewkee.cheong@aiainternational.org
