Why are so many architecture students never becoming licensed architects? 

In this episode of Inside NCARB by the Numbers, host Andy McIntyre is joined by architect and educator Venesa Alicea-Chuqui, along with NCARB's data experts, to unpack what the latest licensure data tells us about diversity, access, and systemic barriers in the profession.

They explore how cost, age, firm culture, and representation all impact who gets licensed—and who walks away. Backed by years of demographic research and initiatives like “Baseline on Belonging,” this episode provides insights for firm leaders, educators, and emerging professionals alike.

If you care about making the architecture profession more inclusive, equitable, and future-ready—this conversation is essential.

Explore more data on the number of licensed architects, gender and racial diversity, and exam pass rates in the 2024 NCARB by the Numbers

How did the COVID-19 pandemic reshape the journey to becoming a licensed architect?

In this episode of Inside NCARB by the Numbers, host Andy McIntyre investigates the long-tail impact of COVID-19 on the architectural licensure process—especially the Architectural Experience Program (AXP). Data reveals a rise in time to complete AXP, but it’s the personal stories that truly bring this shift to life.

Austin Webster and Ann Hampton, took very different paths during the pandemic—one leveraging remote work and mentorship to accelerate progress, and the other juggling career, motherhood, and shifting exam formats. Alongside insights from Jenny Kawecki, Manager of Content Strategy at NCARB, this episode explores how firm culture, economic uncertainty, remote work, and resilience shaped the licensure journey.

Whether you're a licensure candidate, mentor, or firm leader, this episode delivers valuable takeaways about supporting the next generation of architects during turbulent times.

Explore more data on the number of licensed architects, gender and racial diversity, and exam pass rates in the 2024 NCARB by the Numbers

As thousands of architects near retirement age, what will happen to the future of the profession?

In this episode of Inside NCARB by the Numbers, host Andy McIntyre explores the seismic generational shift occurring in architecture—from Baby Boomers who are holding onto their licenses post-retirement, to emerging professionals who are redefining what it means to pursue licensure.

Former NCARB President Alfred Vidaurri Jr. shares wisdom from his 40-year career, offering insight into how the practice has evolved and why some architects are choosing not to retire. Hope Bailey—a newly licensed architect who earned her license in just six years—discusses the motivations, challenges, and cultural shifts shaping her generation.

With data-backed commentary from NCARB’s Manager of Content Strategy, Jenny Kawecki, this episode dives into licensure trends, workforce projections, and why the profession must adapt to meet the moment.

If you’re an architect thinking about your future—or helping shape someone else’s—this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Explore more data on the number of licensed architects, gender and racial diversity, and exam pass rates in the 2024 NCARB by the Numbers

Thousands of architects were stuck—until NCARB made one of its most impactful policy changes in decades.

In this episode of Inside NCARB by the Numbers, we unpack the retirement of the ARE’s five-year rolling clock policy. Why was it created? Why did it persist for so long? And what finally led to its removal?

Host Andy McIntyre is joined by NCARB leaders Jared Zurn, Senior Vice President of Programs, and Katherine Bayless, NCARB’s Assistant Vice President of Data & Analytics, who reveal the data, equity research, and behind-the-scenes work that shaped this decision. Plus, architect Maria Clironomos shares her powerful story of perseverance, setbacks, and what it meant to reclaim her lost exam credits—and her career trajectory—after the change.

Whether you're testing today or returning to the path after years away, this episode offers clarity, hope, and a look at how policy reform is changing lives across the profession.

Explore more data on the number of licensed architects, gender and racial diversity, and exam pass rates in the 2024 NCARB by the Numbers

How long does it really take to become an architect—and what does that journey look like behind the numbers?

In this episode of Inside NCARB by the Numbers, we unpack the often-debated time to licensure. Host Andy McIntyre is joined by NCARB’s Jenny Kwecki to explore what the data reveals—and what it can’t. Then, two powerful and contrasting stories bring the numbers to life:

• Julia Jack, who returned to the licensure path decades into her career, and
• Drew Haley Smith, who became licensed just five years after starting undergrad.

Together, they highlight the many paths to licensure, the personal and professional factors that shape those timelines, and what firms and NCARB are doing to support every kind of journey.

Whether you're just beginning or contemplating a return, this episode offers insight, encouragement, and practical advice for navigating your path—on your own terms.

Explore more data on the number of licensed architects, gender and racial diversity, and exam pass rates in the 2024 NCARB by the Numbers

Is the path to becoming a licensed architect getting more equitable? NCARB says yes—and they have the data to back it up.

In this episode of Inside NCARB by the Numbers, host Andy McIntyre explores how strategic, data-driven changes are transforming the Architect Registration Examination (ARE). From new ESL accommodations and free practice exams to the elimination of inequitable question types, NCARB is working to ensure that the exam measures true competency—not privilege.

We hear from Apoorva Rao, a newly licensed architect who passed all six exams within a year, and NCARB’s Senior Vice President Jared Zurn, who shares the research behind recent changes and what’s next for the licensure path. They dig into how demographics, firm culture, and life stage affect success—and how smart policies can bridge those gaps.

Whether you're preparing for the ARE or shaping firm licensure support, this episode offers essential insights on access, equity, and continuous improvement in architectural licensure.

Explore more data on the number of licensed architects, gender and racial diversity, and exam pass rates in the 2024 NCARB by the Numbers

Welcome to Inside NCARB by the Numbers, an exploration into the data shaping the future of architecture.

Inside NCARB by the Numbers is a compelling six-episode limited-series podcast hosted by Andy McIntyre, Vice President at NCARB. This series unpacks the key insights from NCARB by the Numbers, the annual report that sheds light on the trends shaping architectural licensure.

Whether you're an architecture student navigating the licensing process, a firm leader looking to support emerging professionals, or an educator preparing the next generation of architects, this podcast provides essential data, expert analysis, and real-world stories that inform and inspire.

Subscribe now to Inside NCARB by the Numbers and stay ahead of the trends shaping the future of architecture.