President’s Report

by John Gordon, AIA

If you are reading this, then you are likely already a member of AIA Maine. And, it is also likely that you are older than I am. As such, the following may be considered an exercise in “preaching to the choir.” Nonetheless, here it goes!

It has been my long held belief that AIA Maine could benefit enormously by increasing membership of younger members. The reasons are obvious: Vitality and relevance in a fast-paced world. And, of course, every organization needs new blood to sustain itself. There are many more good reasons, but these are sufficient for the sake of this argument.

Since becoming a member in 1991, I have observed that AIA Maine is an organization of mostly “mature” individuals. It remains true today. Architecture is commonly referred to as “an old man’s profession” (who can afford to retire?). It’s very true in Maine. Evidence…at 46 years of age, I am the youngest member of the Executive committee. Of course, as I get older (and grayer), I really enjoy the thought of being the “youngest.”

Maine demographics (not just architects) support the notion of ours being a more mature state. The same is mostly true across our nation with some localized areas of youth in urban centers. Maine, being a mostly “non-urban” place, is not an area of youth. Nonetheless, Maine does enjoy an abundance of young, talented and energetic architects. These people are the future of architecture in Maine.

To those younger architects not currently AIA Maine members, I say GIVE IT A GO! The benefits are many. Trust me, it’s about a lot more than rental car discounts, cheap disability insurance and newsletters. Continuing education is a significant membership benefit and does make you a better-informed architect. However, the most valuable benefit is contributing to a group of like-minded and motivated architects. The search for reward may require patience and perseverance, but the reward does await you.

To those more “mature” architects among us, especially those who employ these younger architect-types, encourage and support their membership. Perhaps, someone helped you once. You have a professional obligation to foster growth. It’s not just the financial support (yes, you can pay their membership dues). Also allow the time needed to participate and contribute. No, it’s not easy. But we all benefit by investing in the future.

Think about it!

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