IASA

How do I join my local IASA chapter?

When registering to become a member of IASA, you are asked to choose your local chapter from the list provided.  If a chapter is not yet established in your area, you may choose the Global Chapter option where virtual meetings are held once a month.  You will be notified once a chapter opens in your area or you may request to open the chapter if interested. 

Can I volunteer with my local chapter?

Volunteer opportunities may include serving on the leadership team, help secure speakers for future meetings or sending out the electronic monthly meeting reminder notices.  Contact your chapter president to find out what volunteering opportunities exist for your community.

 How do I become a speaker at an IASA meeting?

Speakers generally come from local membership, vendors, and consulting companies.  If you are an experienced architect searching for speaking opportunities, please send a short subject proposal and a brief bio to your local chapter president.

How long does it take to start a chapter?

The answer to this of course varies however a good estimate is around 2 months of 2-4 hours per week. The major tasks are finding a management team, finding a location and the first 1-2 speakers.

How do IASA chapters get funding?

IASA’s goal is to be nationally funded so that chapter leaders will not have to worry about funding. Chapter leaders will work with your Regional Director and the Director of Chapter Activities to acquire funds for chapter activities.

Where do chapter leaders look for meeting locations?

Good locations are local consulting companies and member companies who will trade chapter sponsorship for hosting the meeting.  They may become part of your leadership team as well. Other options are libraries, vendor meeting rooms and hotels.

Can chapter meetings be held at a vendor’s location?

Chapter presidents may choose to hold events at a vendor location as long the meetings remain technology agnostic and the membership is comfortable there.

How many hours per week is spent on running an IASA chapter?

Chapter leaders generally spend 1-5 hours a week on their chapter.

Can chapters hold more than one meeting per month?

Chapters can meet as many times needed to assist architects in their community.  The chapter leader decides how many meetings to hold per month.

Are IASA chapters confined to specific meeting structures?

Absolutely not, just so long as the meetings are professional and relevant to the architecture community.  Meeting structure ideas include the following:  Speaker, speaker face off, round table, industry challenge, expert panel and keynote.

additional questions:

For additional questions or information regarding the development and support of IASA chapters, please contact Chapters@IASAhome.org.