Who needs the AIA?

February 10, 2026

When I first arrived in Sacramento over 50 years ago, I had a newly minted Master of Architecture degree from UC Berkeley.  I was working for Sim Van der Ryn and Barry Wasserman  at the state architects office, along with other recent graduates, towards developing the Capitol Area Plan. Joining the AIA was the last thing on my mind. I was working towards my license, and starting my family.

After a short time, I realized that the AIA/Central Valley Chapter was a great place to meet other people under similar circumstances.  I was new to Sacrament. People would tell me "why join the AIA?  You’ll never meet new clients there." That wasn’t the point. At a critical time in my life, it gave me the support I needed  through its exam seminars, new ideas, tours of  interesting buildings, camaraderie at the monthly meetings, and exposure to the various ways  in which people practice architecture throughout their careers. There were also years I was involved in training opportunities;  conferences, award programs, out of state travel, presentations, panel participation, and the formation of lifelong friendships.  

I served on the Board of Directors before becoming President of the Central Valley Chapter in 1995. The prevailing expression of those days was "stay alive until 95." We had experienced a number of recessions and economic downturns and I was challenged to “keep the fires burning." During those difficult times I held meetings in Tahoe City and Redding to try and inspire our members living in the outer reaches of our chapter. I think this was successful. 

Younger members today haven’t experienced the numerous ups and downs of Architecture. One Architect told me that when the downturn comes, he “puts on a tool belt and works as a carpenter“. For many people, Architecture is a vocation, as much as a profession or business. 

I am grateful for the experience and friendships developed through the AIA. Former Chapter Executive Gini Rountree and California Council Exec VP Paul Welch were particularly supportive while I spent my career with the Capitol Area Development Authority, retiring as it’s Executive Director in 2011. 

Your AIA Chapter will return "tenfold" any commitment you make to your membership. This year, I enter my "emeritus" membership. 

I hope some day you will reach emeritus status as well.

Paul Schmidt, AIA Emeritus