Business Details
Your Architectural Advocates in Western Massachusetts
The Wmaia (WMAIA) is dedicated to advancing architectural excellence through professional development, community engagement, and the celebration of the built environment. Founded to foster dialogue between architects and the public, we explore how architecture impacts daily life, from homes and workplaces to broader societal contexts. Our programs, including free public film series, continuing education courses, and annual design awards, aim to educate and inspire both professionals and community members. We actively promote sustainable design practices through our Committee on the Environment (COTE) and support emerging professionals through mentorship and networking opportunities. Our chapter, representing nearly 200 members across the Pioneer Valley and Berkshires, advocates for high ethical standards in architectural practice while bridging design professionals, industry stakeholders, and the public.Through quarterly newsletters and monthly e-newsletters, we keep members and the community informed about local architectural developments and events. Our annual WMAIA Design Awards recognize outstanding architectural achievements, from elementary schools to community spaces, demonstrating the transformative power of thoughtful design. As part of the national AIA network, we uphold a 167-year legacy of professional excellence while addressing contemporary challenges like housing crises through innovative solutions such as accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Our board of directors includes experienced professionals like Kerry Bartini, AIA, and emerging leaders like Garrison Piers-Gamble, ensuring both continuity and fresh perspectives in architectural advocacy.
Services
Professional Development
Community Outreach
Architectural Events
Educational Programs
Design Awards
Sustainable Design Advocacy
Emerging Professional Support
Public Engagement Initiatives
Membership Networking
Industry Advocacy
Highlights and features
- We promote excellence in architecture through professional development programs
- Engage the public in meaningful architectural dialogue through free film series
- Host continuing education opportunities for licensed professionals
- Recognize outstanding architectural achievements through annual design awards
- Support emerging professionals with mentorship and networking opportunities
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects (AIA)
Services
Professional Development
Our continuing education programs provide architects with learning units through lectures and workshops. These sessions cover topics like sustainable mass timber construction and resource management. Participants gain valuable insights from industry experts while fulfilling professional development requirements.
Community Outreach
Free public film series and educational events foster dialogue about architecture's impact on daily life. Our programs explore how built environments affect families, workplaces, and communities. These initiatives create opportunities for public participation in architectural discussions and awareness campaigns.
Design Awards
Annual awards celebrate outstanding architectural achievements across multiple categories. Recognizing projects like Shaw Elementary School and Mandel Studio encourages excellence in design. The program highlights innovative solutions to contemporary architectural challenges while showcasing regional talent.
Sustainable Design Advocacy
The Committee on the Environment (COTE) promotes environmentally responsible design practices. Through research, education, and advocacy, we support sustainable building solutions. Our initiatives address climate challenges while advancing eco-friendly architectural innovations in Western Massachusetts.
Emerging Professionals Support
Mentorship programs and networking events help new architects transition into the profession. We provide resources for students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals. Regular meetings offer opportunities to connect with established architects and develop essential industry skills.
People
Lorin Starr
Executive Director
Overseeing daily operations and program coordination for WMAIA, Lorin manages membership communications, event logistics, and organizational administration. With extensive experience in architectural advocacy, she serves as primary contact for partnership opportunities and community engagement initiatives.
Kerry Bartini
President
As President and principal at Berkshire Bradley Inc., Kerry leads strategic direction for WMAIA. She represents the chapter in statewide discussions while championing architectural excellence through professional development programs and design advocacy efforts across Western Massachusetts.
Garrison Piers-Gamble
President Elect
Serving as President Elect and associate at Kuhn Riddle Architects, Garrison focuses on emerging professionals' development. He coordinates mentorship programs and facilitates connections between early-career architects and established industry leaders in the Pioneer Valley region.
Jody Barker
Treasurer
As Treasurer and principal at Architecture + Design LLC, Jody manages WMAIA's financial operations. She ensures fiscal responsibility while supporting budget planning for educational programs, community initiatives, and annual design award ceremonies.
Caryn Brause
Secretary
Principal at SITELAB Architecture + Design and WMAIA Secretary, Caryn maintains organizational records and coordinates communication between board members. Her work focuses on sustainable urban design while supporting the chapter's administrative functions.
Questions
What is WMAIA's primary mission?
We promote architectural excellence through professional development, community engagement, and celebration of the built environment in Western Massachusetts.
How can I attend WMAIA events?
Most events require registration through our website. Public film series are free while continuing education programs have nominal fees for non-members.
What professional development opportunities exist?
We offer continuing education credits through lectures, workshops, and conferences covering sustainable design, building technologies, and architectural best practices.
How does WMAIA support emerging architects?
Our Emerging Professionals program provides mentorship, networking events, and career development resources for architecture students and professionals with less than ten years' experience.
What are the annual design awards?
Our prestigious awards recognize outstanding architectural achievements across categories including Honor, Merit, Citation, and Architects' Choice awards for regional projects.
How can I get involved with WMAIA?
Join as a member, attend public events, participate in committee work, or volunteer for advocacy initiatives promoting architectural excellence in Western Massachusetts.
