Like many in the AEC industry, we are a competitive crew. We pursue new work through competitive selection, participate in design competitions, enlist in industry rankings, and enter design awards. We’re honored by the awards and accolades we’ve received over the years. Awards validate our ideas, elevate the firm’s credibility, and give owners and project teams well-deserved recognition – and a chance to share a few enthusiastic high-fives with clients, colleagues, friends, and families.
While we’re always excited to receive recognition or win an award, being named an AIA Emerging Professional Friendly Firm by the AIA Central States Region is a recognition unlike any other. This AIA program recognizes “firms who display an outstanding commitment to the development of their emerging professional (EP) staff.” AIA defines an EP as “a student, recent graduate, or architect licensed within the last ten years.”
It’s not surprising that it was an emerging professional – Bryce Cummings, AIA, NCARB, GGP, LEED Green Associate – who suggested we enter the EP-Friendly Firm Awards. Bryce, who is active in AIA Kansas City, is among our many rising stars. He has embraced opportunities to get involved – in firm-wide initiatives and industry activities alike – with enthusiasm and energy. (We often wonder if he has a self-raising hand!) His passion for our firm, our clients, our colleagues, and the profession of architecture is truly contagious.
This award is more than another plaque on the wall. It is a testament to each of our emerging professionals whose passion, ambition, and initiative are driving us toward a vibrant future. It’s also a tribute to our experienced professionals who freely share their knowledge, experience, and insights through mentoring. This award recognizes our commitment to one another and to our individual and collective success. We’re honored to work alongside the amazing talent in our midst and to cheer them on to the success that awaits through mentoring, professional development, licensure, and industry involvement.
Emerging Professionals Reflections
“I would never have gotten to the place I am without the leadership, training and flexibility offered by Hoefer Welker. They give me the ability to work on several different project types, as well as work on the entirety of a project. It is so rewarding and enlightening to personally take a project from concept through handoff to the client.”
“Hoefer Welker enables emerging professionals to continuously advance their skillsets, nothing is more exciting than the opportunity to showcase your very best.”
Emerging Professionals Perks
From dressing for success, company swag, and social media guidelines, to who’s who and what’s where, our EP orientation and onboarding program helps each new Hoefer Welkeran feel like an insider from Day 1.
Licensure
- PTO and exam fee reimbursement on receipt of passing score
- Access to Amber Book exam prep online course, study guides, flashcards and tools (firm-paid license)
- Firm-hosted ARE study groups
- Designated HW ARE mentors
HW University
Through this intentional, structured program, we provide relevant, inclusive learning to ensure each emerging professional receives the foundational training and development necessary to further their career.
Leadership & Professional Development
We embrace professional development and support our emerging professionals in their pursuit of the same. Emerging professionals are eligible to attend national, regional, or local conferences – paid by the company.
Industry & Community Involvement
- Active participation in industry organizations is an invaluable experience that benefits individual participants as well as the firm.
- Inherent in our culture is an unwavering commitment to our community. Each year, we exceed our prior-year efforts in time invested and funds raised.
