California Architectural Practice Experience (capX)

Introducing capX: Building the Future of Architecture, One Experience at a Time

California Architectural Practice Experience

Enrollment is now open for the California Architectural Practice Experience (capX) Program—a new statewide initiative by the California Architectural Foundation (CAF).

capX connects architecture firms and other architectural practice settings with aspiring architects for paid internships and job shadowing, helping to shape the next generation while strengthening the profession. In its first year, capX is centering on supporting Community College students but it is open to all, including graduates and those on the experience-only path.
✔ Host an intern or job shadow participant—tailored to your firm’s needs
✔ Inspire the next generation—help students take their first steps in the profession
✔ Strengthen the pipeline—support a more diverse, prepared, and connected architectural workforce
✔ Participate even if you have an existing internship program—your current interns can help lead and host a job shadow candidate
The deadline to enroll is March 7th.
Join today and be part of the movement to make architecture more accessible across California–one experience at a time!

Learn more: https://calarchfoundation.org/capx_2025/

Common Application for Design Excellence — 2025 Update

Common Application for Design Excellence from the AIA COTE Top Ten Toolkit

The Common Application is based on the AIA’s Framework for Design Excellence which seeks to inform progress toward a zero-carbon, equitable, resilient, and healthy built environment. These are to be thoughtfully considered by designer and client at the initiation of every project and incorporated into the work as appropriate to the project scope. The Framework is intended to be accessible and relevant for every architect, every client, and every project, regardless of size, typology, or aspiration.

Completion of the Common App is only required for those projects submitting for COTE Award recognition in the AIA Long Beach / South Bay Design Awards program. Learn more about the AIA LBSB 2025 Design Awards program.

VIEW AND DOWNLOAD THE 2025 UPDATED COMMON APPLICATION FOR DESIGN EXCELLENCE
VIEW AND DOWNLOAD THE GUIDE TO ENERGY & CARBON DATA ENTRY IN THE AIA COMMON APP

OTHER RESOURCES:

AIA LBSB Training Webinar, February 3, 2025:

AIA CA Training Webinar 2024:

AIA CA Training Webinar 2023:

Committee on the Environment (COTE) Program Partner

Southern California Edison
Southern California Edison