AIA Working on NCARB sitting for LEED exam early February

Previous to opening my own architecture firm 9 months ago, I worked for several very notable firms in Portland. While these firms operate at the highest level of their respective disciplines, they did not necessarily view green design as a part of their process. I have been passionate about not only my footprint, but ways to reduce our construction footprint for many years. My firm has been open for approximately 9 months. During this time, I have grown exponentially each day...it has been very refreshing. This is my current green building experience - 9 months. There is one project in particular while working for another firm. I was able to work on the retail design from concept to build out for local clothing company, NAU. I learned a great detail about the clothing business and it's negative impact to our planet.

I founded an architecture firm deeply rooted in green design. Additionally, our company is partnered with a construction company, which allows us to control all aspects of projects from concept, to budget through final build out. We don't accept any commissions if the client is not 100% committed to building green. A singular example: We are in schematic design of the first single family residence built out of SIPS panels in Portland (they were not until very recently allowed by the structural code). While there are arguments both for and against SIPS, I feel we're making a huge leap moving away from traditional stick framing.

I have not been previously involved with any organizations

I have a fresh outlook. Additionally, I have a lot of energy and leadership ability. While I'm certain I won't have the most green experience on the board, I'm assuming there won't be many younger business owners applying and I think this is valuable in a diverse group dynamic. My business partner and I have been working together for the past two years. He is the founder of the Muddyboot festival. Located in SE Portland, the festival is focused on bringing the surrounding neighborhood together and educating them on all aspects of sustainability. Robert Kennedy Jr. was the headline speaker 2 years ago, Jean-Michel Cousteau spoke last year. Also, Greg has recently launched a new sustainable surface material called Fuez. Made of concrete w/fly ash and recycled glass, the product is produced in Portland. After 9 months of research and development, Fuez has many green features not found in other concrete and glass materials. The experience I've had working with my business partner on these two ventures has been extremely valuable. Bringing a product or even to market is very difficult. It's one thing to talk about it, but a much different thing to make it happen. This experience is Truly unique and invaluable and knowledge of this process would be valuable to any organization.

Until opening my architecture firm, I have never worked for a firm who fostered green design. It has been extremely frustrating. Now that I have freedom, I feel it would be both a great place to grow, as well as provide a platform to make a difference on a larger scale. I have always felt serving on a Board is not only the socially responsible thing to do, but also the best way to make a difference.