Global Conflict

The NCARB consists of non-elected board members from all over the country. Once a proud group that established minimum standards for architectural practice, they now see themselves as the new universities, deciding how, what and when architects may learn. They are on the brink of establishing a nationwide system of "continuing education" that will permanently end the idea that architects can learn on their own. Welcome to the latest conflict of interest. The group will require continuing education that they approve and sell the books and tests you will have to take to meet the requirements. Hello monopoly. Hello dictatorship.

OK guys. You can't make the rules and sell the books. It is a conflict of interest. I fully expect the NCARB library to blossom very soon to take care of this "increased demand." We need to take a long hard look at any group that determines your learning may not be "carried over" (how about college?) and that you can't learn through architectural practice. These folks are a few continuing education books short of common sense learning. No seminar for that I guess.

The Plot Thickens

I just had the misfortune to read the November '09 meeting minutes of the LLR Board of Architectural Examiners. They're at it again, chasing those evil architects that are missing seminars. Two architects mentioned in the text were fined $2,000 for not keeping continuing education up to date. But a new twist has occurred. Instead of revoking their license, they get to keep it going until a grace period for compliance elapses. What? Have they changed their ways? The threats about libel may have struck a chord with the board attorney. And a more sinister addition to the disciplinary actions gives me chills. They now make the victim sign away any legal recourse or judicial review of their actions - just in case Clay was right. They may still get in trouble for this.

They are circling the wagons a little at the time. Is this an admittance that revoking the license was a bad thing to do? Is this a small victory? I'm sure they will never admit it. It is curious though...

Name Calling

I'm still amazed by the name "Board of Architectural Examiners." They don't really examine anyone, they just keep a list of names of people trying to take the national test. Even if they did, what would qualify them as architectural? Are they columns or architraves? Nope, they only take fees and chase people that don't take seminars they approve of. Pretty meaningless really. So what's a better name for the group? Board of Architects sounds regal but not all of them are architects. Wouldn't want to confuse the public. Board of Architecture is also out. They don't have anything to do with that, thank God. Broad of Architecture might be a good name for Jan, but she ain't an architect. Sorry Jan. No, can't think of anything good to call them. Nothing good at all.