March 4, 2026 

Chapter News

     
 
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Potomac Valley Events

ANCHORING & REINFORCING THE MASONRY WALL

March 18, 12:00 – 1:00 PM
Webinar | 1 LU/HSW | REGISTER

This course provides comprehensive understanding of techniques and best practices for anchoring and reinforcing masonry walls to enhance their stability and durability. Participants will learn about various types of anchors, joint reinforcement, and materials used in masonry construction.

Designing and Building with Single Skin Metal Wall Panels

April 7, 12:00 – 1:00 PM
Webinar | 1 LU/HSW | REGISTER

Explore the history of single skin metal wall panels and their advancements into modern day architectural wall cladding systems. Design professionals will learn the advantages of building with eco-conscious practices and how they can help to reduce the construction industry’s environmental footprint. The course will explain the advantages of building with wall systems that provide performance and sustainability as well as how modern paint finishes will protect and enhance a structure. The course will round out with a look into the importance of proper detailing and assemblies with a focus on how incorrect design and construction can lead to structural damage, mildew and mold issues, and the impact these conditions can have on building’s inhabitants.

AIA Potomac Valley Committee Meetings – Join Us!

Mar 13 | Committee on the Environment (COTE) (In Person) 8:30 – 10:30 AM; AIA Global Campus for Architecture & Design®  REGISTER
Mar 18 | Emerging Professionals Committee (Virtual) 6:30 PM
Apr 8 | Custom Residential Architects Network (CRAN) Committee (Virtual) 1:00 PM

       

 
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Advocacy

AIA MARYLAND LEGISLATIVE UPDAte

The Maryland General Assembly has now reached a critical midpoint in session. Hearings are underway, fiscal scrutiny is tightening, and committee decisions over the next several weeks will determine which bills advance. 

Read the March 4, 2026 Legislative Update. 

Stay informed through AIAMD’s Legislative Tracking List.

ARCHITECTURE IN ACTION: DESIGN DAYS

AIA Maryland’s Architects in Action: Design Days program is bringing registered architects directly into Maryland classrooms to introduce students to design thinking, creativity, and problem-solving.

Through classroom visits and donated architecture book sets, we are helping students see how architecture shapes their communities—and how they can be part of that future.

If you have a school you’d like to connect with this program, please encourage them to learn more and apply at: https://aiamd.org/k12/

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Featured Project

Saint James School Pohanka Fine Arts Center

MSB Architects
Hagerstown, MD

Our celebration of the winners of AIAPV’s 2025 Excellence in Design Awards continues! In this issue we’re shining a spotlight on the St. James School Pohanka Fine Arts Center, a 22,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility in Hagerstown designed by MSB Architects. The project received an Honor Award from the jury, recognizing its exceptional design and contribution to the arts for student artists.

Above Image: Exterior View from Bai Yuka. Photo: Chris Spielmann


(l to r) Marc Feinstein, AIA (2025 AIAPV President) with M. Scott Bowen, AIA and Janelle Horst, AIA – MSB Architects  Photo: ©2025 Montgomery Planning

Rooted in the Georgian traditions of Saint James School, the Pohanka Fine Arts Center frames a contemporary curved volume between two classical bookends: the main entrance and recital hall. This juxtaposition creates a dialogue of tension between permanence and innovation, tradition and experimentation. At 22,000 square feet, the center houses music, visual art, and performance in a civic-scale presence, opening to the Bai Yuka landscape with crafted detail, natural light, and ecological connections.

Dusk View from Bai Yuka. Photo: Chris Spielmann

With a diverse and growing student population, Saint James School sought to create a new facility for their art and music program to inspire their budding artists. To meet this need, MSB Architects was hired to design a new 22,000 SF fine arts facility and recital hall that reflects the school’s character and distinction. The new facility introduces a civic presence while remaining sensitive to its pastoral surroundings.

Recital Hall. Photo: Chris Spielmann

Student Commons. Photo: Chris Spielmann

JURY: “Here the arts are a heartbeat, giving young people a sanctuary, the arts and the ages are woven together through a strong gesture in the roof designed by the architects.”

LEARN MORE

EXPLORE FURTHER

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Allied/Partner Spotlight

Ernest Maier Celebrates 100 Years of Selling More Than Just Block

By Aaron Fisher | Ernest Maier

Ernest Maier, a leading family-owned Mid-Atlantic supplier of masonry, hardscape, and construction materials, proudly announces its 100-year anniversary. Since its founding in 1926, the company has grown from a single hand-powered Sears block machine into a diversified family of brands dedicated to supporting builders, contractors, engineers, and communities throughout the Mid-Atlantic region that still proudly manufactures its own block.

A Century of Progress 
Founded by Ernest Maier in 1926, the company began with a simple mission: provide top quality concrete masonry units to support growing infrastructure needs in the DC area. Over the decades, we have expanded our geographic footprint, product lines, and technical capabilities—becoming known for quality, innovation, and customer service.

Today, the Ernest Maier family of businesses includes:

• Ernest Maier Block – high-performance masonry, hardscaping, and natural stone products

• Ernest Maier Steel – commercial and residential steel fabrication and installation

• Bay Ready Mix – ready-mix and specialty concrete offerings

• Skyline Brick – high-quality masonry materials specializing in brick

• Parker Block – masonry products and ready-mix concrete

“Reaching 100 years is not just a milestone for our company—it’s a celebration of the customers, employees, and communities that have shaped our success,” said Brendan Quinn, CEO. “We’re proud of our heritage and excited to continue innovating for the next century of building and infrastructure challenges.”

CONTINUE READING

About Ernest Maier 
For 100 years, Ernest Maier has been a trusted provider of high-quality construction materials across the Mid-Atlantic. With a focus on durability, innovation, and community, the company delivers products and solutions that support builders from the smallest backyard projects to the largest commercial developments. We thank you for all your support and look forward to continuing providing our services for many more years to come.

Ernest Maier is a Silver Annual Partner of AIA Potomac Valley.

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Events, Education & Opportunities

ARE^® PREP SERIES – PROJECT MANAGEMENT

March 7, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Virtual | 6 LU/HSW | REGISTER

Prepare effectively for the Project Management section of the Architect Registration Examination 5.0 (ARE 5.0) through this comprehensive course. Dive into the nuances of managing architectural projects, covering design and construction phases. The course emphasizes essential elements such as organizational principles, contract management, consultant coordination, and quality control, all while prioritizing the public’s health, safety, and welfare. Join us for a practical journey to enhance your skills as you prepare for the ARE 5.0.

Learn more about the 2026 ARE^® Prep Series and view the full series schedule.

PASSIVE HOUSE DC CHAPTER MEETING

March 19, 12:00 – 1:00 PM
Virtual | REGISTER

Attend and network with others working to transform the building industry across the US. Get the latest, regional, national and international Passive House news. Hear reports on ongoing efforts and help brainstorm new ones. Please invite friends or colleagues who may be interested. Zoom link is provided with registration.

Passive House Washington DC is part of The Passive House Network, in affiliation with the International Passive House Association, and the Passive House Institute. Questions welcome: [email protected]

Building the Future: Launching and Sustaining K–12 Architecture Outreach Programs

March 24, 4:00 – 5:00 PM
Virtual | 1 LU | REGISTER

Hosted by the K–12 IDEA Group

Join four AIA members from chapters across the country for a deep dive into their experiences developing Architecture Week programs. AIAPV member and SFx state representative Lori Apfel Cardeli, AIA, NCARB of LACArch is one of the speakers on the panel.

This session is ideal for anyone looking to launch or strengthen K–12 outreach initiatives within their chapters or local communities. You'll hear directly from K–12 leaders representing multiple AIA chapters as they present case studies from their Architecture Week grant–funded programs. Each presenter will walk through their project's goals, anticipated and measured impact, implementation strategies, partnerships, timelines, and budget considerations. They'll also share candid insights about lessons learned, common challenges, and approaches to building long-term sustainability.

Beyond the case studies, attendees will gain practical guidance on applying for future Architecture Week grant funding and on identifying meaningful ways to engage members, educators, and students in their regions. The session will conclude with an interactive Q&A, giving participants the chance to explore ideas, troubleshoot barriers, and leave with clear, actionable next steps for developing successful K–12 outreach programs.

CONTRACTOR COLLEGE & PRODUCT EXPO

April 1, 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Bethesda, MD | AIA Credits Available | REGISTER

Join TW Perry at the Bethesda Marriott for a day filled with learning, networking, and exploring the latest products in the industry. This event is designed to bring builders, architects, designers and contractors together to share knowledge and discover new solutions. Don't miss out on this opportunity to choose from 16 education courses and connect with fellow professionals to enhance your skills.

The REGISTER link will take you to a Google Form to complete. Please register for the classes you wish to attend ASAP—capacity is limited and all classes are expected to fill!

AZIZA CHAOUNI: "Designing with Scarcity in Africa"

April 8, 4:00 – 5:20 PM
College Park, MD | 1 LU/HSW | REGISTER

AIA Potomac Valley is pleased to support the Craig and Mimi Spangler Lecture (part of the University of Maryland School of Architecture, Planning & Preservation's Spring 2026 Architecture Lecture series).

This lecture explores how scarcity—of materials, infrastructure, energy, and capital—can become a generative force for architectural innovation in Africa. Drawing on built work, research, and post-crisis interventions across the continent, Prof. Aziza Chaouni reframes constraint as a catalyst for climate-responsive design, social equity, and cultural continuity. The talk examines low-carbon construction, bio-sourced materials, adaptive reuse, and participatory processes that leverage local knowledge and crafts. Rather than importing extractive models, the lecture argues for context-driven design methodologies that transform scarcity into resilience, affordability, and long-term environmental stewardship.

Architects and AIA members that attend this event in person will be eligible for 1 LU|HSW Learning Unit, provided by AIA Potomac Valley.

ARCHITECTURE WEEK 2026: VIRTUAL READ-ALOUDS
April 12 – 18, 2026

It’s never too early to start thinking like an architect! Architecture Week is a nationwide celebration recognizing the power of good design, with a goal of inspiring hopeful architecture and design professionals and K-12 students.  

Gather your students and join architecture and design children's book authors throughout Architecture Week for a virtual read-aloud followed by Q&A. These sessions are designed to be easy, turn-key opportunities for engaging with schools, libraries, and community groups. The stories spotlight architecture and design, sparking creativity and curiosity about the built environment.

Browse 15 read-aloud options for grades K-12 HERE and click the book images to register for your favorite session(s). Groups are welcome.

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From AIA

ABI JANUARY 2026: BILLINGS REMAIN SOFT TO START THE YEAR

The AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index® (ABI) score declined to 43.8, indicating that more firms saw a decline in billings in January than in December. In addition, inquiries into new projects declined for the first time since April 2025, and the value of newly signed design contracts also softened.

Join the Women in Architecture and Design Committee Network

The Women in Architecture and Design Committee Network is a new online community for women and allies in architecture and design who want to connect, share resources, and learn from one another. Designed for those leading, supporting, or building WIA/WID committees, the network offers guidance on leadership, engagement, programming, funding, and long-term sustainability. Interested in joining? Complete the join request form. For questions or more information, reach out to Kirsten Swanson.

FREE AIAU COURSES FOR MEMBERS ON PRODUCTIVE MENTORSHIP

Becoming an Inclusive Mentor in Architecture (1.5 LU)

Becoming an architecture mentor is one of the most meaningful ways to support the next generation of design professionals. This interactive course prepares you to become the best mentor possible by building the skills needed for effective, inclusive, and sustainable mentoring relationships.

Becoming an Empowered Mentee in Architecture (1.5 LU)

Becoming a mentee is one of the most powerful ways to shape your professional growth in architecture. This course equips you with the knowledge and skills to engage effectively and confidently in mentorship programs.

AIA Town Hall & Annual Meeting 

Mark your calendar now for the AIA Town Hall on May 15 at 3pm ET. Join live to review proposed Bylaws changes, meet candidates, and get your questions answered. Then make your voice count at the AIA Annual Meeting on June 10, 2026, where delegates will vote on key governance items and leadership for the coming year. Register

Energy code update

AIA is weighing in on proposed 2030 energy code updates from the International Code Council that could reshape how buildings are designed, evaluated, and regulated. Proposed changes would split the code into “base” and “expanded” categories, potentially affecting design flexibility, liability, and how performance is measured. AIA’s recommendations emphasize long-term innovation, including life-cycle performance, 30-year cost analysis, and readiness for electrification, solar, and EV infrastructure. These decisions could influence project costs, compliance complexity across states, and how architects support public health, safety, and building resilience.

2026 Architect’s Journey to Specification report

This report explores how architects collaborate with manufacturers, adopt product innovations, and integrate sustainability into specification decisions amid ongoing market and technology shifts.

2025 AIA Small Firm Compensation & Benefits Report now available 

The updated AIA Small Firm Compensation & Benefits Report is tailored for sole proprietorships and firms with fewer than three architectural staff. Based on data from more than 400 firms, the report includes compensation tables, benefits insights, professional development practices, and salary comparisons by firm size, role, and geography. Members receive a 40% discount off the $98 price. 

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Calls, Competitions & Deadlines

2026 AIA CRAN Scholar Program: Call for Applications 

Application Deadline: March 27, 2026, by 5:00 PM

THE U40 LIST: AIA/AAH LIST OF HEALTH CARE DESIGN’S BEST UNDER 40 

Submission Deadline: April 3, 2026 

Members under age 40 may wish to apply for the U40 List, an award to celebrate individuals making a significant contribution to the advancement of health facilities design. Each year up to two individuals are selected for this list. Recipients also receive complimentary registration and travel expense stipend for the 2026 AIA AAH/ACHA Summer Leadership Summit July 17–19 in Minneapolis. 

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