Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Architecture Advocates in Corpus Christi
AIA Corpus Christi serves as the leading voice for the architectural profession in the Texas Coastal Bend region. Founded in 1960, we unite architects, emerging professionals, and allied partners to advance design excellence and professional development. Our organization advocates for policies that shape the built environment while fostering collaboration among design and construction professionals. Through continuing education programs, networking events, and community initiatives, we support career growth and industry innovation.Our members benefit from access to national resources through the American Institute of Architects while addressing local architectural challenges. We promote public appreciation for architecture through design awards, educational programs, and community engagement. Our strategic initiatives focus on sustainability, historic preservation, and advancing architectural practice in South Texas.
Services
Continuing Education
Design Awards
Golf Tournament
Code Academy
Young Professionals Program
Details
- Year established: 1960
Highlights and features
- We offer networking opportunities for design professionals through regular events and programs
- Our continuing education programs meet state licensing requirements for architects
- We advocate for policy improvements that benefit both architects and local communities
- Our members gain access to national AIA resources and professional development tools
- We promote architectural excellence through annual design awards and recognition programs
Services
Continuing Education
Our continuing education programs provide architects with necessary HSW credits for license renewal. These sessions cover current industry standards, building codes, and design innovations. Participants gain practical knowledge applicable to Texas Coastal Bend architectural challenges while connecting with peers.
Design Awards
The triennial Design Awards recognize outstanding architectural achievements in the Coastal Bend region. This competitive program showcases excellence in design, sustainability, and community impact. Winning projects receive public recognition and professional acclaim through our annual awards celebration.
Golf Tournament
Our Fore the Birdies Golf Tournament combines professional networking with scholarship fundraising for architecture students. This annual event brings together regional design professionals for a day of golf and camaraderie while supporting future architects through educational grants.
Code Academy
The summer Code Academy offers eight hours of HSW continuing education credits required for architectural licensure. This intensive program covers critical building codes, safety standards, and accessibility requirements through expert-led sessions for practicing architects.
Young Professionals Program
The Built Environment Young Professionals program develops future industry leaders through networking, education, and mentorship opportunities. This initiative connects emerging professionals across architecture, engineering, and construction fields for career development and collaborative learning experiences.
People
Rob Garcia
2025 President
Studio Director at Levy Dykema Architects with 20+ years experience. Texas A&M graduate specializing in community-focused design. Adjunct instructor at Tulane University. Advocates for innovative, respectful architectural solutions that honor local communities.
Madeline Layland
2025 President-Elect
Architect at Levy Dykema with Oklahoma State University architecture degree. Recently licensed in Texas. Former Emerging Professionals Director. Organized 2022 Canstruction team. Active in professional development initiatives for young architects.
Victor Cruz
2025 Secretary & Treasurer
Partner at LaMarr Womack & Associates with 12 years experience. Master of Architecture from Texas Tech. Manages CAD teams and BIM workflows. Specializes in production management and design development phases of architectural projects.
Alex Garza
2025 Immediate Past President
Project Architect at Pfluger Architects with decade of experience. UTSA graduate skilled in BIM, VDC, and sustainable design. Former TAC committee member. Enthusiastic angler who contributes to local zoning and architectural policy discussions.
Suzan Rozypal
Executive Director
Executive Director since 2021 with history and tourism background. Former Southwest Airlines flight attendant. Texas A&M graduate. Operates Italy With Friends Tours. Connects architectural history with practical applications through educational programming.
Questions
How can I become a member of AIA Corpus Christi?
Visit our website to apply for membership as a licensed architect, emerging professional, or allied partner. Membership benefits include networking opportunities, educational programs, and advocacy support.
What continuing education opportunities do you offer?
We provide HSW credit programs through our annual Code Academy and regular Lunch & Learn presentations. These sessions meet Texas licensing requirements while addressing regional architectural challenges.
Do you offer scholarships for architecture students?
Yes, our annual Fore the Birdies Golf Tournament raises funds for architecture student scholarships. These grants support local students pursuing accredited architecture degree programs in Texas.
How can I participate in your design awards program?
Submit your architectural projects through our triennial design awards competition. Entries are evaluated by peer architects for excellence in design, community impact, and technical achievement.
What networking events do you organize?
We host regular chapter meetings, Lunch & Learn presentations, and social events including our annual golf tournament and Hooks Night baseball outing for design professionals.
