AIBC Council Meeting Summary: October 8, 2013

At AIBC Council’s meeting on Tuesday, October 8, 2013 it dealt with the following matters:

• Council approved a motion from its Associates Task Force calling for the following designations to be introduced for the three Associate categories of registrant: Architectural Technologist AIBC; Intern Architect AIBC; and Retired Architect AIBC. While several options were considered, it was agreed that the use of the institute’s initials was consistent with the designation for architects (Architect AIBC) while providing clarity and assurance to the public. These designations for associates are to come into effect as of January 1, 2014. Attention will now focus on the matter of associates practising independently, providing design services within the exceptions of the Architects Act.

• AIBC Council President Scott Kemp  Architect AIBC reported on a recent meeting with the Honourable Amrit Virk, Minister of Advanced Education. The minister and other senior ministry staff spoke with Kemp, Council Vice President Darryl Condon  Architect AIBC, Council member Gordon Richards  Architect AIBC, Lieutenant Governor Appointee Steve Simons, AIBC Deputy Executive Director and General Council Thom Lutes and AIBC Director of Communications David Wiebe. The meeting provided an opportunity to introduce the recently-appointed minister to the institute and its representatives, and to discuss issues of government priority and process. This included council’s interest in bringing about unspecified changes to the Architects Act to address deficiencies in the century-old legislation and reflect the evolution of the profession. The minister expressed support for this direction, explaining the process and prioritization that surround what is ultimately a government decision, and provided some direction as to how the institute can best prepare for the opportunity, should it arise.

• Vice President Condon reported on a situation by a member who is also an honorary member was inadvertently excluded from participating in AIBC Council’s engagement survey carried out in of 2013. It was agreed that a formal apology, as requested, would be issued by the president.

• May 3, 2014 was agreed upon as the tentative date for the 2014 AIBC Annual Meeting, pending final confirmation of the necessary available space on that date at the Simon Fraser University Business Centre in downtown Vancouver, the location of the 2013 Annual Meeting.

The next official meeting of AIBC Council is scheduled for Tuesday, November 12, 2013 at the AIBC offices (#100 – 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver) Members, associates and the public are welcome to attend; please confirm your attendance in advance by contacting Executive Coordinator Tracy Tough by e-mail (ttough@aibc.ca) or phone (604-683-8588, #335).