This unique program offers more than just traditional mentorship; it’s a comprehensive platform designed to foster meaningful connections between young architects and established firm leaders in the vibrant Columbus architectural community. What sets this initiative apart is its commitment to developing leadership skills alongside mentorship. AIA Columbus recognizes that the future of architecture requires not only technical prowess but also the ability to lead and inspire. Through thought-provoking sessions, the program employs various modes of active interaction, including group mentoring, reverse mentoring, and peer mentoring.
This dynamic approach ensures a well-rounded learning experience that caters to both emerging talent and experienced professionals. By participating in ARCHway, you’re not just gaining mentors; you’re becoming part of a community invested in your growth and success. Seize this opportunity to elevate your career, expand your network, and contribute to the rich architectural landscape of Columbus.
Pasts ARCHway's
ARCHway 2026
Finding Your Superpower
AIA Columbus is proud to launch the fifth year of Archway, our mentorship and leadership initiative designed to connect early professionals with firm leaders across Central Ohio.
It is expected of advisee's to:
- Be an Associate AIA or AIA member
- Attend all Sessions
- Pay the $150 advisee fee
Connect: Building Mentorship Foundations | Session 1
Thursday, January 29, 2026
4:00 - 7:00 PM
LOTH Showroom | 855 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43215
Kick off the Archway program with a lively three-hour networking mixer designed to help participants connect and build meaningful relationships. This casual event encourages open interaction among all attendees through a speed-mentoring icebreaker, where Advisees and Advisors share key interests and professional goals to spark new mentoring connections. To help guide conversations, session leaders will distribute participant résumés prior to the event.
Discover: Knowing Your Talents | Session 2
Thursday, February 19, 2026
4:00 - 6:00 PM
Center for Architecture and Design | 50 W Town St, Suite 110, Columbus, OH 43215
Effective leadership begins with self-awareness. This session helps participants identify and understand the unique talents they bring to the leadership table. According to the Gallup Organization, many leaders spend too much time trying to fix their weaknesses instead of maximizing their strengths. Before the session, participants will complete the Clifton Strengths assessment to uncover their top five talent themes. During the workshop, we’ll explore how to leverage these strengths to enhance personal effectiveness, improve collaboration, and make a greater impact within your organization. By focusing on what you do best, you’ll gain deeper insight into your leadership style and learn how to apply your strengths with purpose and confidence.
Explore: Expanded Practice and Redefining the Architect’s Role | Session 3
Thursday, March 12, 2026
4:00 - 6:00 PM
Center for Architecture and Design | 50 W Town St, Suite 110, Columbus, OH 43215
Architectural training opens doors far beyond traditional practice. In this session, hear from architects who have expanded their professional paths—applying design thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills in new and unexpected ways. Through an interactive workshop exercise, mentors and mentees will collaboratively create a shared work of art—demonstrating how design thinking, iteration, and collective creativity mirror the collaborative process of architecture and open new possibilities for practice.
Engage: Leading with Authenticity and Humor | Session 4
Thursday, April 09, 2026
4:00 - 6:00 PM
Center for Architecture and Design | 50 W Town St, Suite 110, Columbus, OH 43215
Session description coming soon!
Identify: Find Your Leadership Superpower | Session 5
Thursday, April 30, 2026
4:00 - 6:00 PM
Center for Architecture and Design | 50 W Town St, Suite 110, Columbus, OH 43215
What does it look like to define your personal brand of leadership? How can you learn to flex your leadership muscle in your professional and personal life? How can you build agency to apply those skills and affect long-term impact? How do you identify those around you who can build into you while you build into others? This session will explore these and more questions through a series of charrettes designed to help you identify your passions, your skill set, and how to apply them to your career in architecture.
Celebrate: Reception and Reflection
Thursday, May 21, 2026
4:00 - 6:00 PM
TBD
Join us as we celebrate another successful year of Archway! This closing reception brings together all participants to reflect on their experiences, share insights gained through the program, and strengthen the professional connections built along the way. This social gathering serves as a highlight of the Archway journey—an opportunity to recognize growth, express gratitude, and celebrate the power of mentorship and leadership within the Columbus architectural community.