AIA Trust: 12 Days of Learning
If you’re wrapping up year‑end CE requirements or simply want to sharpen your practice heading into January, the AIA Trust’s 12 Days of Learning delivers a timely collection of on‑demand programs spanning business planning, legal resilience, design risk, and early‑career guidance. We post each day’s feature on our social media channels as well, so you can track the full series throughout the season.
Twelve on‑demand programs to strengthen your practice this season
Day 1 — Volumetric Modular Construction
Volumetric modular construction is reshaping project delivery — but it also introduces unique liability considerations for architects. This program explains how AIA Contract Documents address risk, clarify responsibilities, and support health, safety, and welfare in modular design. 1.0 AIA LU/HSW
Day 2 — The Case for Robust Teaming Agreements
Strong teaming agreements are essential to protecting architects and ensuring successful collaboration. This session outlines key provisions, common pitfalls, and strategies for drafting clear, effective agreements that support project success. 1.5 AIA LU
Watch: https://theaiatrust.com/resource/the-case-for-robust-teaming-agreements/
Day 3 — Designing for the Future: Climate Risk
Climate hazards are accelerating, and expectations for architects to address foreseeable risk are rising. This program introduces the USGBC-endorsed Climate Risk Factsheet Tool and highlights how integrating climate projections into early design can strengthen resilience and reduce exposure. 1.5 AIA LU/HSW
Day 4 — Fundamentals of Design-Build Done Right
Design-build offers opportunities for efficiency and collaboration — but requires architects to clearly understand their role. This program covers core concepts and best practices that help teams work effectively while minimizing exposure. 1.5 AIA LU
Watch: https://theaiatrust.com/resource/fundamentals-of-design-build-done-right/
Day 5 — The Champlain Tower Collapse
The tragic collapse of Champlain Tower South carries important lessons for the profession. This session reviews the findings and explores how architects can better understand risk factors, building performance, and responsibilities tied to protecting public health, safety, and welfare. 1.5 AIA LU/HSW
Watch: https://theaiatrust.com/resource/the-champlain-tower-collapse/
Day 6 — Pitfalls of the Profession
Through real-world scenarios and practical guidance, this program highlights common challenges architects encounter in practice — from difficult clients to unclear scopes — and offers strategies to avoid or mitigate these pitfalls before they escalate. 1.5 AIA LU
Watch: https://theaiatrust.com/resource/pitfalls-of-the-profession-by-legaline/
Day 7 — Strategic Business Planning
A strong business plan is essential — especially in unpredictable markets. This session breaks the process down into clear steps that connect purpose, financial stability, marketing, and operations to help firms grow with intention. 1.5 AIA LU
Watch: https://theaiatrust.com/resource/stabilize-your-firm-with-strategic-business-planning/
Day 8 — Starting and Operating Your Own Firm
Launching a firm is exciting — but also complex. This program covers the practical aspects of starting and running a practice, including business structure, financial planning, contracts, insurance, and risk management. 1.5 AIA LU
Watch: https://theaiatrust.com/resource/starting-and-operating-your-own-firm/
Day 9 — Evolving and Growing Your Firm
Whether you lead a small practice or a growing studio, understanding how to scale thoughtfully is essential. This session explores strategies for growth, leadership, marketing, and operational development to support long-term success. 1.5 AIA LU
Watch: https://theaiatrust.com/resource/evolving-and-growing-your-firm/
Day 10 — Using the New AIA Design-Build Documents
Traditional design-build can place architects in challenging positions. This program introduces the new AIA design-build agreements — including the first progressive design-build forms — and shows how they promote collaboration, clarify scope, and reduce risk. 1.5 AIA LU
Day 11 — Legal Resilience for Architects
Knowing when to seek legal guidance is a core part of risk management. This session offers practical advice on recognizing red flags, preparing for consultations, and establishing proactive legal practices that support architects and their firms. 1.5 AIA LU
Day 12 — Navigating the Job Offer
Transitioning from school to practice can feel overwhelming. This program provides emerging professionals with guidance on evaluating job opportunities, negotiating offers, and making early career decisions that align with personal values and long-term goals. 1.0 AIA LU
Watch: https://theaiatrust.com/resource/navigating-the-job-offer/
All 12 programs are free to access and easy to share. We hope this year’s compilation supports your end-of-year learning goals and strengthens your practice as you head into the new year.