Opportunities Fair for architects

NEW YORK CITY, January 27, 2009— The Center for Architecture will be hosting an Opportunities Fair on Wednesday, February 25, 2009. Representatives from community organizations, non-profits, schools, and training programs have been invited to the Center to share information about volunteer possibilities, continuing education, and other opportunities related to the design and architectural fields. The event is part of the Not Business as Usual initiative, a series of bimonthly Wednesday lunch workshops organized and presented by AIA New York and the Center for Architecture Foundation.

The initiative started on Wednesday, December 17, 2008, in response to the economic downturn and its effects on the lives of architects and allied professionals. Lack of new commissions, downsizing of firms, and lay-offs: the consequences are being felt by all, from recent graduates to veteran architects.

Not Business as Usual began as a lunchtime meeting for sharing ideas on how professionals can navigate the changed economy. It has evolved into a program series of workshop sessions taking place twice every month, each with a different focus. The programs help with hiring and skill development.

The Not Business as Usual Opportunities Fair will take place on February 25. Among the organizations participating in the fair are: Open House New York, Center for Architecture Foundation, Archiculture Film, Engineers without Borders, the Institute for Design and Construction, the Society of Design Administration, Canstruction, and the Design Trust for Public Space. Organizations interested in having a table at the event are being asked to contact Tara Pyle, Center for Architecture Marketing and Events Manager, at tpyle@aiany.org.