Professional Practice Leadership Program (2PLP) from AIA San Antonio was developed to better prepare young professionals for the constant changes within the profession and to foster improvement in practice management. It is designed to enhance the transition of young professionals from internship to professional practice through increased exposure to aspects of the profession that are not typically obtained through academia or the Architectural Experience Program (AXP).
One of the primary tenets of the program is to provide practicable knowledge in three areas of leadership: the firm, the profession, and the local San Antonio community.
Each year, a group of 10-15 candidates are accepted into the 2PLP program. The selection process is competitive requiring that applicants complete an in-depth application including a personal statement about challenges they see in the profession. Those chosen participate in the program for 11 consecutive months attending focus sessions presented by firm principals and industry leaders. The sessions are configured to provide a strong interactive learning experience where the participants have work sessions and discussions about various subjects.
The focus session topics include:
- Foundations of Leadership & Effectiveness
- Marketing & Business Development
- Contracts & Risk
- Ethics
- Project Management & Delivery Methods
- Project Budgeting & Firm Profitability
- Community Leadership
- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
- Quality Control
- Sustainability
Additionally, participants envision, establish, and lead community impact projects each year with a focus on design service and influence. In recent years, projects have ranged from urban design proposals and interventions to early architectural education curriculum for young students across San Antonio.
To apply for the Professional Practice Leadership Program, please visit the link below. For more details and scholarship opportunities, please review the application information or contact info@aiasa.org
2023 Co-Chairs

Stephanie Aranda, Assoc. AIA

Anna-Brooke Gutzler, Assoc. AIA
Advising Chair

Lindsay Belliveau, AIA
2024 Co-Chairs
