I read the Thankbox card Steve compiled for Larry just now, and I cried like a little b@#$h. But it was a happy cry. I'm stunned by the number of people who added wishes for him. I hope he's overwhelmed with happiness when he reads it. This is one of those things about AIBD that's so damn cool -- the way in just one day or so, people rallied. Epic!!!!!!!
I don't read the blog, I read messages that come to me through email because that window is always up, and I can respond to messages super quick. I also read the Monday minute and other email-related news. I don't need, wish, or want to open up another program like Basecamp to read a blog and/or keep running in the background. Most information I get through email is pretty good, and I enjoy keeping up with it.
In response to an email about having received a payment, but not having enough CEs to recertify.
I’ll see what I can do. Every year, it seems you guys want more and more requirements for the CEUs. If, before the end of the year, it looks like I can’t make it. I’ll just request my money back and drop out of AIBD. Thanks for your time.
Then, after receiving our response: It feels like there’s a bit of friction in reporting CEs. Any ideas on how to make this process easier?
Having my own business for 30 years now, it would seem I wouldn’t need to prove myself to be called a professional. Frustration comes from having to do this every year, with seemingly more specific requirements. Then, if you’re a board member and attend the meetings, they are easy to achieve. However, if you are a regular member and put in 60 or more hours a week, it’s difficult to do. Let alone the desire or need. I generally work 10-hour days minimum and usually another 4 to 8 hours on the weekend… there’s my venting. Sorry to bend your ear.
My decision not to renew is simply that I am forced to make financial cuts in spending.
In response to The value of experience in architecture [Meander] (12/31/25)
I have always enjoyed stories of famous architects who had no formal architectural training such as Mies van der Rohe and Tadao Ando. The apprenticeship route still exists here in California and a friend of mine is currently undergoing that route. As California is probably the most regulated state in the U.S. this surprises me but it may serve to inform other states considering dropping the professional degree requirement.
____________________
January 2026
_________________ In response to you haven't submitted your CPBD Application 1/1/2026
I am writing to formally withdraw my candidacy for the Certified Professional Building Designer credential and request that you cancel my registration. Additionally, I will be canceling my membership with the AIBD.
After careful consideration, I have concluded that this certification and AIBD membership do not align with my current practice or the specific needs of my clients and collaborators. While I recognize the value the AIBD provides, my professional reputation is firmly established through my portfolio, contractor referrals, and my track record with building officials.
I believe that professional legitimacy is best demonstrated through the quality of my work and my industry relationships. At this stage, I find that the credential does not offer additional technical or professional value to my projects. I will continue to pursue professional development through other relevant resources.
I appreciate the resources provided by the AIBD and wish the organization continued success.