About CivicLAB
Gain the skills to be a citizen architect.
Architects are advocates for the built environment. CivicLAB is an opportunity to learn from experts about the local, state and federal issues that directly affect architects and develop the skills to be an effective advocate. Learn how to use your skills as an architect to take on leadership roles in your community and professional life.
CivicLAB introduces architects, designers, and allied professionals to opportunities for civic engagement across the full spectrum of their careers. We invite emerging leaders to expand their role in critical issues facing our communities and the profession and to communicate and demonstrate the role of architecture in civic life.
During monthly sessions, participants learn the tools of engagement from proven leaders who have guided communities to achieve advocacy results at local and national levels. Group activities and advocacy opportunities will illustrate how we can make a positive impact within our communities.
CivicLAB 2026 Schedule: Apply here by February 16!
Tuesday, February 24th: Single Stair Legislation (COTE), The Center for Architecture and Design
Ryan Dorsey, Baltimore City Councilman, District 3
Julian Frost, LEED AP O+M
Dustin Watson, AIA, Principal, InPlace Design
**Opportunity**
Thursday, February 26th: AIA Maryland Legislative Action Day
Join AIA Maryland for the 2026 Legislative Action Day in Annapolis. This is your opportunity to meet with state legislators, advocate for the profession, and support policies that strengthen Maryland’s built environment. Your voice matters — be part of the conversation that shapes communities.
Wednesday March 11th: Housing Advocacy, The Center for Architecture and Design
Martina Reilly, AIA
Ren Southard, AIA, NCARB, Redevelopment Strategy Planning Supervisor
Neighborhood Development Division
Baltimore City Department of Housing and Community Development
March 25th: Historic Preservation/Civic Engagement
Ann Powell, AIA, Plan Build, LLC
Lauren Schiszk, Executive Director, Commission for Historical and Architectural Preservation (CHAP)
Date TBD: Maryland Legislative Recap
Chris Parts, AIA, Principal, Hord Coplan Macht
Ben Roush, P.E., Principal, FSi Engineers
Selection Process
While tailored to AIA Emerging Professionals (Associate AIA or AIA members within their fist 10 years of licensure) participation in CivicLAB is open to al design professionals and limited to a maximum number of 12 participants. Participants will be selected on the basis of nomination and statement of interest expressing interest in becoming involved in community advocacy or prior involvement in community organizations. Participants are encouraged to seek sponsorship from their employer; however, scholarships will be available for members who need financial assistance or are in school. Applicants may self-nominate.
Tuition and Funding
Tuition is $100 for AIA Members/$150 for Non-Members. Scholarships are available to participants for whom funding is a challenge. Tuition is due after applicants are selected for the program and prior to the first session.
How to Apply
Step 1: Complete the application.
Step 2: Have your employer or another reference complete the nomination form. Self-employed or unemployed applicants may self-nominate.
Step 3: Tuition is $100 for AIA Members/$150 for Non-Members. Invoices will be emailed to the address indicated on the application and can be paid online or by check.
Questions? Email lhill@aiabalt.com If you require financial assistance and would like to request a scholarship, please reach out with a statement of need.
Deadline: February 16, 2026