My role as an AILA Director has allowed me to connect more broadly with members, across the country. I really enjoy chewing the fat over the different successes and challenges we may face. One of the most prominent of these challenges is workforce shortages, an issue that has been compounded by the pandemic.
The great news is that with schools opening up further, AILA's ‘Be a Landscape Architect’ program can be relaunched. This program is part of a long-term strategy to increase understanding of the profession among the community and to attract more domestic students to degrees in landscape architecture.
Last week, over 60 'Be a Landscape Architect' Ambassadors attended and participated in an online induction program, facilitated by AILA. These Ambassadors will visit schools to introduce landscape architecture, and associated career pathways, to students. The program will eventually expand to include landscape architecture-related undergraduate visits, participation in career expos and engagement with career advisors.
While 60 is a brilliant start, we can always do with more volunteers. Many hands undertaking this small role can create a bigger impact. Your involvement in the 'Be a Landscape Architect' program will help our efforts to sustain our professional future.
As a 'Be a Landscape Architect' Ambassador, you will first attend an induction session before being connected with schools in your area. You will also have access to the 'Be a Landscape Architect' Memberscape community, where you'll find resources as well as tips, advice and experiences from others in the program.
If this has piqued your interest and you wish to become involved please register to become a 'Be a Landscape Architect' Ambassador.
Peta-Maree Ashford, FAILA
AILA Director