Architects always have plans.
Beginning this semester, Mark Bess, undergraduate architecture coordinator and principal at Blackberry Studios, and Tom Ogorzalek, senior lecturer and partner at Continuum Design, LLC, will formally expand the career and professional development guidance they have long provided to upper-level architecture students.
The initiative builds on the existing co-op program, which includes ARCH 310, 410, and 510 at the undergraduate level, and ARCH 680, 681, and 682 for graduate students. The goal is twofold: to help students secure work experiences that align with their career interests, and to ensure that students planning to take the licensing exam fulfill all necessary requirements.
This support comes at a critical moment, as the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) is updating the Architectural Experience Program, AXP. Effective November 18, 2025, the six AXP experience areas will be realigned with NCARB’s Competency Standard for Architects. These areas such as practice management, project planning and design, and project development and documentation require a total of 3,740 hours to be reported.
“For students who plan to take the licensing exam, several criteria must be met, including specific types of work experience,” said Bess. “On the firms’ side, they must provide learning objectives that meet these criteria. We’re helping connect students with firms that can deliver both the practical and qualified experience they need.”
Ogorzalek added, “If we can jumpstart this process, even in a small way, it gives our students much more insight and opportunity into the professional world. Mark and I have been doing this informally for years. Students come to us to talk about their educational trajectory, professional interests, and preparation, whether it’s getting LEED certified, pursuing sustainability, or exploring other areas. Now, we’re formalizing it: vetting design firms who want to participate and making sure students know we’re a resource when they’re ready.”
Bess emphasized that the program is not limited to traditional internships. “Some students aren’t looking for internships at all. They may have questions about career paths beyond a conventional architecture practice. I’ve seen graduates pursue a wide range of opportunities with their degree.”
“Even if all we do is connect them with someone in our network who can answer their questions,” Ogorzalek added, “that’s often enough. Sometimes, students just need someone in the field to bounce ideas off of.”
Students interested in career advising should prepare an updated resume before scheduling a meeting. Information on who will serve as the career and professional advisor can be found on the HCAD website under Academic Advising.