Early Career Architects’ Forum (ECAF)

RSUA established this forum to address issues affecting those within the early stages of their architectural career. Chaired by Alex Knowles, the Early Career Architects Forum supports architects in Northern Ireland in their first ten years of practice; consecutive or otherwise and provides a platform for the society’s newest members to engage on matters specifically pertaining to the development of early career architects.

What is the purpose of the Early Career Architects’ Forum?

To support qualified architects in their first ten years of practice*

(* We are defining the first ten years of practice as the first ten years of active work as an architect. Periods where an architect is not actively working as an architect are not considered part of the first ten years.)

How will this purpose be achieved?

• Facilitate a well-connected network of recently qualified architects.
• Demonstrate the contribution made by early career architects and the diversity of roles undertaken.
• Organise targeted events to support learning for early career architects.
• Identify and develop opportunities for creative outputs for early career architects, including architectural competitions.
• Provide platform for early career architects to informally learn from each other and from more experienced architects.
• Connect early career architects in Northern Ireland with early career architects in other regions and countries.
• Connect early career architects with other relevant early career groups in NI like RICS, Young Planners, NI Construction Group Future Leaders and ACE Progress Network.
• Consider how skills and experience gained can be assessed and recognised.
• Contribute to the development of Architecture Night and other RSUA initiatives.

Public benefit

Support and learning opportunities for early career architects will enhance the quality of the output from practices leading to better standards of architecture for the public. Providing a platform for fresh ideas, creative thinking and collaboration will help the profession better respond to the major challenges facing our built environment for the benefit of all.

Membership and contact details

The Early Career Architects’ Forum Chair, Alex Knowles alex.knowles@consarc-design.co.uk

Meeting frequency/pre-arranged dates

The Early Career Architects’ Forum meet quarterly from 1pm to 2pm on the following dates:

• 1pm on Wednesday 19 March 2025
• 1pm on Wednesday 18 June 2025
• 1pm on Wednesday 24 September 2025
• 1pm on Wednesday 10 December 2025

Other meetings will be scheduled as required between the standing meetings and working groups will be formed to take forward specific actions.

Find out more

Read some of the latest updates and relevant news articles relating to the Early Career Architects’ Forum here.

Involvement

RSUA members interested in joining the Early Career Architects’ Forum should contact Jude Faloon by emailing jude@rsua.org.uk

Engagement

If you or your organisation wishes to engage with the Early Career Architects’ Forum, please contact Jude on jude@rsua.org.uk