Events Reminder - March 10, 2026 
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
Events, Education & Opportunities
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.
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 AIA K–12 leaders from across the country for a dynamic session highlighting successful Architecture Week programs. Learn how AIA chapters are building impactful K–12 outreach, explore real case studies, and get practical guidance on funding, partnerships, and program sustainability. The session wraps with an interactive Q&A to help spark or strengthen your own initiatives. This session is ideal for anyone looking to launch or strengthen K–12 outreach initiatives within their local communities.
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.
ARE® PREP – PROGRAMMING & ANALYSIS
April 11, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Virtual | 5 LU/HSW | REGISTER
Prepare for the Programming and Analysis section of the Architect Registration Examination 5.0 (ARE 5.0) with our insightful course. This division is a crucial part of ARE 5.0, and our program is tailored to guide you through project type analysis, establishing project requirements, evaluating project sites, and understanding economic issues. Join us for a practical exploration that enhances your skills and knowledge in preparation for the examination.
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.
Calls, Competitions & Deadlines
2026 AIA CRAN Scholar Program: Call for Applications
Application Deadline: March 27, 2026, by 5:00 PM
Calling All Emerging Residential Architects!
Are you a student or recent graduate passionate about custom residential architecture? The American Institute of Architects Custom Residential Architects Network (CRAN®) is now accepting applications for the 2026 CRAN Scholar Program.
This incredible opportunity connects emerging professionals with leaders in residential practice across the country and includes:
✨ Mentorship from a CRAN Advisory Group member
✨ National networking opportunities with top residential architects
✨ $1,000 stipend upon completion
✨ Free registration to the 2026 CRAN Symposium in San Antonio (Sept. 23–26) at the The Westin Riverwalk
✨ Access to education sessions, events, and the CRAN home tour
CRAN is looking for students or recent graduates (within 5 years) who demonstrate leadership, initiative, and a strong interest in residential practice.
Don’t miss this chance to grow your network, build leadership skills, and gain national exposure in the residential architecture community.
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.
