The AIA Brooklyn Emerging Professionals (BKEP) supports and serves the emerging professionals. This committee provides a pathway for new associate members and licensed members with less than ten (10) years of licensure to engage and lead as the next generation of architects. We foster professional development, knowledge sharing, mentoring, and social engagements that encourage participation of all emerging professionals within the chapter and the greater community at large. Meetings are held every 2nd Monday of every month at 6:30pm on Zoom. Follow us on social media and join in.
Programs hosted by the AIA Brooklyn Emerging Professionals Committee:
- Quarterly “Ask Me Anything” (AMA) Forums: Dynamic panel discussions connecting emerging + seasoned professionals.
- ARE Study Groups: Twice-monthly sessions with local AIA chapters to help individuals who are studying for their licensure.
- NCARB Licensure Workshop: held annually
- Professional Development Events: Portfolio reviews, firm tours, + skill building workshops.
- Networking & Social Events: Seasonal socials to foster community + connections.
- EPFF Awards: Awards Program for Emerging Professional Friendly Firms
Teaming up with local AIA Chapters and other AIA Brooklyn Committees, the AMA is a platform for emerging and seasoned professionals to share their stories and journey in the design industry. We host several panel discussions that provide a network for learning and career advancement.
Whether you are an architecture student, a recent graduate or a newly licensed architect – the BKEP is a great way of meeting new people and to build a strong foundation for your career as an Architect.
Sponsorship opportunities include event sponsorships, in-kind contributions + annual partnerships, with benefits such as logo placement, speaking opportunities + direct engagement with AIA Brooklyn members.
BKEP Leadership
– Advisor: Mi Zhang, AIA, NYS-YAR
– Board liaison: Gretel Griffith, Assoc. AIA
– Chair: Philip Li, AIA
– Co-Chair: Selin Demirbas, Assoc. AIA
– Co-Chair: Yangsun Lim, Assoc. AIA
– Chair for the ARE Study Group: Gretel Griffith, Assoc. AIA
Click here to join the BKEP WhatsApp Channel
Click here to follow BKEP on Instagram
Click here to see BKEP events on Eventbrite
Email BKEP@aiabrooklyn.org to get more involved!
Committee Events
18 India St, Brooklyn, NY 11222
AIA BKEP Photography Tour: Color in Williamsburg + Greenpoint will take participants on a guided photo walk exploring the colors, architecture + waterfront spaces of two of Brooklyn’s vibrant neighborhoods. From Greenpoint’s riverside parks to Williamsburg’s lively streets, we’ll look for unexpected details, autumn hues + fresh perspectives along the way. The tour will be led by Sarah Drake, AIA, past president of AIA Brooklyn.
This casual tour is free and open to all skill levels—whether you’re shooting with film, a digital camera, or your phone. The photo walk will conclude at Domino Park, followed by a social stop at Radegast Hall & Biergarten.
Stops Include
- The Riverie Apartment Complex (meeting point)
18 India St, Brooklyn, NY 11222 - WNYC Transmitter Park
- Caffè Panna
- The Malin Williamsburg
- Smorgasburg Williamsburg
- North 5th Street Pier and Park
- Grand Ferry Park
- Haco NYC
- Williamsburg Biannual
- Domino Park (final photo stop)
- Radegast Hall & Biergarten (closing social)
113 N 3rd St, Brooklyn, NY 11249
This Year’s Theme: Color
Explore how color shapes our experience of the city—from fall foliage + waterfront views to building façades, street scenes + everyday details.
What to Bring
Any camera—film, digital, or phone
Comfortable walking shoes
Curiosity + an eye for color
Hosted by the AIA Brooklyn Emerging Professionals Committee (BKEP)
AIA members, students + BKEP community members welcome!