Construction is expected to continue to grow well into the next decade in the province of Alberta and so, we felt it would be appropriate to look at a career directly influenced by this trend.

We interviewed Monica Rempel (B.E.S.) who has worked in the industry for seventeen years. She has this to say about a career in architecture.

Why did you decide on this career path?

After graduating from high school, I studied in a few different fields until I ended up in architecture. I enjoyed art and had an aptitude for math and any related subjects that included calculation. Buildings and spaces always intrigued me, so instead of following in the family path of going into education, I applied to the architecture program at the University of Manitoba.

What kind of education do you need?

There are several ways of getting into architecture. I chose the university route and completed the bachelor program which emphasized the design end of the field. Out of 600 applicants, I was one of sixty who were accepted. To actually become an architect, one would have to continue toward a degree in the Master's program and then work under an architect for several years before being given the title of architect (up to 9 years invested time with job opportunities after the first two or three). All universities that offer these programs have a slightly different setup. They are ranked in the industry for their good and bad qualities, some having a better reputation than others for the knowledge the students graduate with and their ability to make it in the real world.

Another option would be to take the architectural technology program in a community college such as S.A.I.T. These are often two or three year programs with a diploma on completion. This route puts more emphasis on the technical side of the industry. Some begin this way and then decide later to continue in a university program towards a full degree.

Beyond University, an architect must be part of a provincial architect's association and must follow the guidelines that the association has set out and agreed upon.

Also, familiarizing yourself with City building codes, current construction techniques, and building product specifications is important, as it directly affects final design decisions.

Are there temperaments or skills that are necessary in this career?

I feel creativity and a good work ethic are the most important qualities in this industry. Most firms use computers at some point in the design process, so a good knowledge of at least one or two CADD (computer aided draughting & design) programs is a must.

Is there a lot of demand for this type of work?

The jobs are out there if the economy is good, but if there is a downshift, architecture positions are some of the first ones to disappear.

What would be a typical wage?

Wages vary as a reflection of the economy and availability of employees. Anticipate somewhere between $35,000 - $40,000 per year depending on degrees/diplomas. An architect owning his or her own company can make quite a high wage with the right reputation, skills, reliable employees and marketing.

What do you do in an average day?

On any given day, I might design a single family residence and then switch to construction drawings for a large hotel. There are client meetings as well as City hall permit requirements that need to be taken care of for a project to be completed.

What is a typical work schedule?

A regular 40 hour week with some overtime is typical. During construction booms, and when there are big projects on the drawing board, the hours can get quite long.

Are there dress codes?

Some firms are quite casual while others are very formal with a strict dress code, depending on the image of the firm and the clients that are being catered to.

What are the pros & cons?

The road to becoming an architect can be a long and costly one and there can be a great deal of stress. The positive outcome, is that the skills you've acquired can be used in a small company or a large one, in the private or public sectors or can even be used to start a business from home.

Finally, Do you find your work fulfilling? How?

There is great fulfillment in seeing a project completed. You leave a mark on the city you live in.