Honorary Officer elections 2025

I am delighted, honoured and humbled to be nominated for the position of Honorary Secretary.

Background
I began my journey in Architectural Technology in 2000 when I completed an HND at the University of Wales Institute, Cardiff and continued with education to obtain a BSc in 2004. I have acquired 20 years professional experience working for both small and medium enterprise architectural practices and AJ Top 100 practices alike, progressing from a Junior Technologist position to intermediate, to senior level, and currently as an Associate at an architectural practice in Chichester, West Sussex. I have worked within the housing, education, arts and culture, historic, and commercial sectors during my career.

I proudly obtained Chartership in 2012 and strived to involve myself within the Institute. The Conduct Committee caught my attention, through my desire to continue progression, improve standards and maintain professionalism through a challenging industry. For over six years I enjoyed the intricacies of the Conduct Committee and learning the principles and basis of standards expected of us all as members and affiliates of the Institute and the mechanisms for protecting the membership and the general public. In recent years, I have stepped over to the Documents Taskforce and I am an active member of the South East Regional Committee, where I have made some great acquaintances.

The Institute today
CIAT provides a great membership experience through Regional and Centre activities, along with the AT Awards and Annual General Meeting, to provide the wider membership an opportunity to assemble and discuss Institute business, progression and debate the changes, challenges, and trends within the built environment sector.

With this in mind, it is vital to ensure our Regulations and policies are upheld to facilitate membership interaction within the Institute, and member involvement with the wider construction industry and the general public. The recent Regulatory Reform, instigated by the Building Safety Act 2022, highlights the requirement to uphold the Institute’s regulatory standards and continue to review and implement amendments to the Byelaws and Code of Conduct.

The built environment has faced many challenges over the last ten years, which have included high profile catastrophic events, placing the industry in the limelight and damaging the credibility of all construction industry professionals. The Institute’s membership has responded extremely well to this and continues to ensure that mechanisms are in place to enable members and affiliates to follow suitable guidance and regulations, consequently delivering buildings safely to their best endeavours and providing the general public with assurance. The Institute is grounded on the Charter, Byelaws, Regulations and Code of Conduct; these provide the foundation and safety measures of standards and regulation. Further to this, the initiation of the Principal Design Register, along with existing specialist registers for Chartered Environmentalists and CIAT-Accredited Conservationists, provide continuous professional development and enhance our place in the built environment.

The future
The current Honorary Secretary has set a high example of ensuring CIAT as an organisation is able to maintain and progress the laws and regulatory mechanisms to lead the industry in professional competency and standards. My key undertakings will be to continue building on this strong foundation and continue improvements in the regulatory side of the Institute to aid delivery of the Strategic Plan 2025. I will work closely with the Chief Executive, Executive Board, Council and the staff members to implement the strategic and business plans to the benefit of all members and affiliates of the Institute.

The Institute aims to enhance the value of our profession as Architectural Technologists, and through education, membership, technical and practice avenues, CIAT can raise this awareness within the industry and the wider public. This strategic aim will be underlined by the professional ethics and standards held by the Institute and protected within the Charter, Byelaws, Regulations and Code of Conduct.

The Honorary Secretary position is not necessarily a position within the Institute that drives radical change in relation to membership interaction or the role of ATs in industry and the wider society. However, it is a role that needs to understand the industry trends and developments to ensure the correct implementation of regulation, and changes to policies and systems must be implemented through considered discussion with members, officers, staff and peer institutions. The Institute’s purpose is to be the premier representative and regulatory body for Architectural Technology and the community.

Why should I be the Honorary Secretary?
I take pride in professionalism and maintaining a standard in my day-to-day responsibilities as an AT and as a manager within my practice. I take a considered approach to challenges and debates to reach a solution, and I aim to understand and absorb information to make informed decisions. I am willing to review the need for change, however I am resilient and will rebuff change for change’s sake in order to protect the standards of the Institute.

In relation to the strategic aims, I believe I will contribute towards raising both the profile of CIAT and awareness through standards protection and development. This will ensure that we promote the Institute’s education, practice and professional standards, including the Code of Conduct, which ensures high-quality outcomes, accountability and public protection. As part of the role, I will lead the Conduct Committee, providing guidance and ensure that protocols are followed to allow a fair and appropriate conduct and disciplinary procedure to not only protect the general public, but in turn protect the members of CIAT.

2025 provides great opportunity following on from the regulatory reform within the industry and I look forward to working with as many of you as possible to improve our social, wellbeing, value, and safety and take advantage of the ever-changing built environment.

I am keen to hear from all members and affiliates, whether they have ideas, concerns or are curious to know more in relation to the governance of the Institute in particular. I would be open to discussion with anyone who wishes to approach me with comments or questions in the pursuit of transparency and the improvement of, not only our great Institute, but the construction industry as a whole.

Excellence in education now and into the future

Introduction and acknowledgement
I am both honoured and delighted to be nominated again for the position of Vice-President Education in the upcoming September elections. My professional journey began as a Chartered Builder, and I became a member of CIAT in 2004 while serving as a partner in my own design and development practice. It was through my CIAT membership that I found a true professional home; one I have been increasingly proud to represent over the years.

Throughout my involvement with CIAT, I have contributed both locally and nationally. I serve as a member of the Education Board, chair university Accreditation Panels, chair the Moderator’s Group and chair the judging panels for the AT Awards | Student. I was one of the first three Assessment Panel moderators appointed and participated in interview panels for prospective members. 

My experience in assessing and interviewing prospective members has been put to good use by the Institute in the creation of the Membership Short Course. Now delivered to hundreds of members and affiliates and I have had many comments on how useful the course was in its delivery and content to guide members and affiliates on their journey to successful application and interview. This was added to more recently by videos summarising the course, which continue to increase their viewing statistics.

In my previous time as Vice-President Education, I played a role in developing the apprenticeship standard for Architectural Technology, contributed to the Member Grade Review and more recently the Professional Standards Framework Review, amongst participation in many other reviews and initiatives. I also brought the initial idea forward (as I later discovered for the third time) and contributed to establishing the Fellowship grade of membership and supported the formation of the aspiration Groups. Additionally, I have represented the Institute at numerous conferences and exhibitions, consistently advocating for CIAT membership and professional development.

My extensive engagement has allowed me the privilege of working alongside the dedicated staff at Central Office, as well as meeting and collaborating with many members and affiliates from across our Regions and Centres.

The educational landscape in the 21st Century
The landscape of education has undergone significant transformation in recent years. Higher education has become more widely accessible, with funding structures shifting towards student contributions. Simultaneously, economic challenges have heightened the expectations placed on graduates entering the workforce. Within this evolving environment, Architectural Technology has seen a notable increase in both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in the UK and internationally.

As an academic within higher education, I have witnessed firsthand the impact of these changes.  Today’s students are increasingly discerning, seeking programmes that offer clear career pathways and strong employment prospects. While employment has always been a primary motivation for pursuing higher education, the current generation of students faces an industry shaped by rapid technological advancements, legislative changes and growing client demands.

The Institute, alongside myself and fellow educators, has worked diligently to uphold and enhance the quality of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Maintaining and improving educational standards is fundamental to the future of our profession.

My first commitment: I will continue to champion the maintenance and enhancement of high-quality Architectural Technology education in the UK and seek to work with Centres to expand this internationally, ensuring that our programmes prepare students for the evolving demands of the industry.

Industry and education: removing barriers, engaging in dialogue and strengthening collaboration
Employment remains a primary motivator for university students, just as employers seek graduates equipped with the necessary skills and competencies to contribute effectively to their organisations.  Establishing and reinforcing strong links between industry and education is therefore essential.

Dialogue and collaboration are crucial for both educators and industry professionals. Engaging with industry helps educational institutions align their curricula with current professional requirements, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for their careers. Conversely, industry engagement with academia provides employers with a clearer understanding of educational outcomes and graduate capabilities.

My second commitment: I will promote and facilitate stronger collaboration between industry and education, fostering partnerships that enhance the employability of our graduates and align academic programmes with industry needs.

Expanding horizons: the evolving role of the Architectural Technologist and CIAT’s profile
In my role as a membership interviewer, I have had the privilege of meeting outstanding professionals whose expertise and dedication continue to elevate the profession. Their passion and commitment reinforce the immense potential of Architectural Technologists within the built environment.

Recognising and embracing the expanding opportunities available to Architectural Technology graduates is crucial for the profession’s future. Architectural Technologists are well-positioned to drive innovation in the built environment, integrating emerging technologies, developing new materials and processes and leading the way in sustainable and efficient design practices.

If our profession is to continue evolving and gaining prominence, we must ensure that students and graduates fully understand the breadth of career opportunities available to them. Raising awareness of these possibilities is essential to advancing both the profession and CIAT’s standing within the industry.

My third commitment: I will advocate for the expansion of the Architectural Technologist’s role and work to enhance CIAT’s reputation as a professional body representing leading-edge practitioners in the built environment.

Research and development: Architectural Technologists at the forefront of innovation
Building upon the themes of professional development and industry collaboration, it is crucial to explore the role of Architectural Technologists in research and development. A natural extension of industry-education collaboration is the engagement of Architectural Technologists in research projects that address real-world challenges.

By contributing to the advancement of materials, construction techniques, and design methodologies, Architectural Technologists can establish themselves as key players in shaping the future of the built environment. Encouraging greater involvement in research and development will not only enhance professional expertise but also reinforce the credibility and influence of Architectural Technology as a discipline.

My fourth commitment: I will support and promote the involvement of Architectural Technologists in research and development initiatives, ensuring that our profession remains at the forefront of innovation in the built environment.

In conclusion
My candidacy is not based on promises of radical change but rather on a commitment to building upon the strong foundation already established by my work and that of my predecessors and fellow members. My priorities align with the ongoing progression of the Institute and the profession, focusing on excellence in education, industry collaboration and the continued elevation of the Architectural Technologist’s role.

I offer my experience as both an academic and practitioner, dedicated to championing high-quality education, fostering strong partnerships between industry and academia, broadening career opportunities for graduates, and supporting research initiatives.

Architectural Technology, as a profession, holds a crucial place in the future of the built environment. As Vice-President Education, I will actively advocate for its continued growth and recognition, ensuring that CIAT remains a leading voice in shaping the built environment of the 21st Century.

I am honoured to stand for the position of Vice-President Practice, and I want to take this opportunity to share why I believe I’m the right person for the role. 

Practice  
The meaning of ‘practice’ as a member or affiliate of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists is increasingly diverse. Whether you are a sole practitioner, an apprentice, a director in a larger firm, or a researcher, we all face the dynamic and evolving landscape of our profession. One day we are navigating the latest proposals for Approved Document Part B, the next we are tackling a client challenge that does not align with guidance on the Building Safety Act. And that is before we even consider the complexities of thermal modelling, planning validation, Professional Indemnity Insurance, or the negotiation of client fees. These are just a few of the core Technologist responsibilities, and the list goes on.

I recognise that practice can be both challenging and rewarding. That is exactly where the Vice-President Practice role becomes critical. The Practice Department already provides outstanding support for members and affiliates, helping us navigate the complexities of our day-to-day work. Although I have had the privilege of observing the invaluable work of previous Vice-Presidents and speaking with the current incumbent, Dan Clements, I recognise there is always more to learn. What I can promise is this: no one is more passionate about supporting you in practice than I am. I am committed to ensuring that CIAT equips you with the tools and resources for practice that makes your membership invaluable.

As a Chartered Architectural Technologist running a practice of eight, I spend my days working at the heart of practice – navigating contracts, regulations, client expectations and the ever-changing demands of our profession. I know the challenges we face daily, but I also see the opportunities we have to strengthen our profession and support each other. 

What I stand for

1. Supporting you in practice 
We all know how tough it can be to stay on top of regulations, contracts and best practices. I want to make sure we have clear guidance, practical tools and CPD resources that actually help us in real-world situations. As an example, I would seek ways in which we can support you to execute the role of BSA Principal Designer with appropriate documentation.

Whether you are a sole practitioner, or part of a larger firm, I want you to feel confident that CIAT has your back when it comes to practice matters.

2. Strong business models 
I hear many members calling for greater recognition, higher fees and increased salaries. I firmly believe the key to achieving this begins with building a strong business model at the individual practice level. When your practice operates efficiently, you can elevate your work to set new standards and in turn invest in marketing, which in turn drives recognition, and allows you to command the fees and salaries you deserve. Understanding your numbers and implementing effective procedures are essential to securing the right projects at the right rates.

I also recognise the pressure of competing with low-fee providers and the challenges it brings. Building on the excellent work already done by the Practice Department, I am committed to providing the tools and resources that will help you drive your business forward and, in turn, elevate the profession. As an example, I would look to provide an updated fee calculator and business operations cheat sheets, helping you to navigate the changing business market.

3. Collaboration within CIAT 
I want to build stronger connections between members and affiliates so we can learn from each other’s experiences and challenges. Working closely with the President, Vice-President Technical and Vice-President Education, I will ensure that practice and technical advancements go hand in hand, helping us all adapt to new technologies, regulations, and industry shifts. 

Why me?
I am in your shoes – grappling with the same day-to-day issues that all of us face in practice. I have a practical, problem-solving mindset, always looking for ways to make things clearer, easier, and more effective.

I have been involved with CIAT since 2011, starting out as Regional Secretary to the East Anglia Region, moving to Councillor, spending time as a Councillor Trustee on Executive Board, and now holding the position of Co-Chair for East Anglia. I have a good understanding of how the Institute operates and would now like to support members and affiliates from the position of Vice-President Practice. I am committed to making CIAT even more relevant, useful, and supportive for our membership. 

Let’s do this together
If I am elected, my focus is simple: to make sure that CIAT provides the guidance, advocacy and support that every member and affiliate needs to thrive in practice. 

I would love to hear your thoughts, concerns, and ideas. This is our profession, and we all have a stake in shaping its future. 

Thank you for your time and support—I look forward to working with you! 

It is an honour to be able to address you and ask for your support in my bid to be elected as your Vice-President Practice. Anyone who knows me knows of my passion for our profession, and I would be proud to represent us. Please take some time to read my manifesto, which introduces me and outlines what I hope to contribute.

Who am I?
Some of you may know me from my work with CIAT, or from meeting at the AT Awards or AGMs. I always try to meet as many members and affiliates as possible. I am Adam Newell FCIAT, born in 1983. I have worked as an Architectural Technologist since 2006, currently with BDP on prestigious landmarks. I have been an active member of the Greater London Regional Committee since 2013, where I have played a key part in building a strong team, holding roles like Secretary, Chair, Treasurer, and Councillor. As Councillor for the past five years, I have served on the Conduct Committee, Executive Board and represented CIAT at various events.

I value my CIAT membership and consider becoming Chartered a key career milestone, thus I help the next generation through mentorship. I have developed a keen interest in both sustainability and our built heritage, for which I think there is a unique challenge with respect to conservation requiring an innovative solution for a sustainable future.

As I apply for the Vice-President Practice position, I want to emphasise my generalist experience across various practice forms through my journey to date, which gives me a unique insight into the vast range of different practices and skillsets our membership has to offer.

My journey
When I began my journey in 2002, I was unsure of my career path. I enrolled in an undergraduate BSc in Architectural Technology at Napier University in Edinburgh, driven by my passion for our built environment. Promoted by my lecturer, Robert Mason PPCIAT MCIAT, I joined CIAT and have since built a career aligned with my strengths and interests. Over the past 20 years, I have worked on prestigious landmarks across the UK and Ireland, thanks to the support and recognition I have received as a member of CIAT. After completing my undergraduate degree in 2006, I moved to Galway to work for Dooley Architects. I worked on various projects, including a town centre development, using Revit.

While enjoying the work, I began planning my next career step. With guidance from my old lecturers, I enrolled in the MSc in Technical Architecture at Sheffield Hallam University. Returning home for the summer, I worked for William Lippe in Inverurie to assist with barn conversions. Upon starting my Masters, I joined WCEC in Chesterfield, where I worked on supermarkets. The experience was enjoyable and provided valuable insights into large-scale projects, contracts, sites and processes. My interest in sustainability led me to become a BREEAM assessor and BREEAM AP. I have always been interested in history and our built heritage, possibly from growing up in a 300-year-old Coaching Inn in Aberdeenshire. I started an MA in Conservation and Regeneration at Sheffield University in 2011. To diversify, I moved to London in 2012 and worked on very high-end residential projects for a prestigious little practice in Notting Hill.

I completed my Masters and became Chartered in 2013, joining the Greater London Regional Committee. A move to McBains, a medium-sized multidisciplinary company, broadened my experiences working on exciting projects like police HQs, care homes and motor retail. I was offered a chance to work on the Palace of Westminster, leading me to join BDP in 2019, where I remain. In addition to my work with BDP, I own Penguin Architecture, a small CIAT Chartered Practice. I enjoy the personal connections that accompany small-scale domestic work while I learn to run a business. I became a Fellow member of CIAT in 2023.

Why me?
I do not advocate radical change. I believe the Institute is in a great place as we continue to grow. Our Central Office staff team and members and affiliates who support us have made this possible. Without their support, we would not be in this strong position. I want to continue helping and supporting the team as we enter our 60th year. I bring my personal strengths, interests and varied career to the team, providing a broad understanding of our diverse membership and their unique talents.

I have a proven record as an ambassador for the CIAT brand and come to this with the full support of BDP, giving me the time, passion, and energy to fulfil the role. I wish to promote a culture of curiosity and community. I am very good at being the catalyst which brings people together. I can build and lead teams and provide enablement and direction. I think we are stronger together. I work for a global organisation, from which I am able to help support our recognition out with the UK.

With an understanding of sustainability and part of the Building Safety group at BDP, for which I am completing my BRPD HRB registration, I am well placed to support our main goals of low carbon and building safety.

What I hope to achieve during my term?
While supporting the Practice Department and representing CIAT when appropriate, I would like to focus on my interests aligned with our strategic plan: low carbon and our built heritage. The success of CIAT relies on our prestigious brand being recognised in the highest regard. This recognition comes from demonstrating a trusted sense of accountability, responsibility, and integrity; simply put, by doing a good job. Being part of a larger team, sharing resources and ideas, helps us achieve this. CIAT is the catalyst that helps us connect.

A core goal of our strategic plan is recognition. As we continue to prove our worth, this recognition will follow. This is evident within the industry; a change I have witnessed over recent years. With this recognition, others will want to work with us, and this in turn promotes the values of being a member. For me, we are a small family, and strength comes from our collective efforts.

As Vice-President Practice, I want to focus on helping people connect. I do this already at a local level at work and within the Greater London community and can scale this up as Vice-President Practice by strengthening links and building relationships. I am keen to engage with as many members and affiliates in all varieties of practice as possible. It is important to understand the challenges our membership is facing and work to overcome them.

Collaboration with the other Vice-Presidents is essential to this as we draw people through university and give them the tools to perform their unique skills. I understand the intricacies of the rapid pace of legislation change in the built environment and will be available to assist members and affiliates in addressing challenges like the Building Safety Act or potential planning reforms.

The new societies, Digital and Sustainability, I think are a great initiative. I can help build on this as I bring my own expertise. We are a global organisation which I think can feel difficult sometimes to bring people together when considering there are so many things which are different: legislations, markets, etc. There are, however, many things which make us the same. Sustainability and conservation are global common values that unite us. Bringing people together to focus on a particular subject where there is a common theme will give us the basis to foster collaboration from which other conversations will grow. Using my interest and accolade in conservation, I would like to champion the creation of a Heritage and Culture Society. I believe this, along with our Sustainability Society, holds the key in helping our global community come together. Our industry has so many facets; however, it is the desire to build sustainably within the context of our built heritage and culture that is central to the DNA of Architectural Technology and the common thread which we all understand and have something to contribute towards.

To conclude
The world has changed since CIAT’s inception on 12 February 1965. However, in 1965, the Institute was formed by a group of individuals of like-minds who came together with a common purpose. They met regularly, becoming friends, and the Institute grew from this fellowship. The way we communicate has changed. The way we work has changed. However, the sense of camaraderie and being part of a team is still true today.

Yes, CPDs, technical conferences, etc., can and should be centralised; however, getting people together, face-to-face, is where the real magic happens, and remains the key to the continued success of the Institute. I wish to help and promote this as much as possible.

I am thankful for the opportunity to serve for the past twelve years in various capacities and look forward to the busy times ahead. The success of the Institute is very important to me, and it would be a great honour to serve you in this position. I am a strong believer in the work of our Institute and believe that we have an opportunity to make a real difference for the benefit of all our members, affiliates and the wider society. With this, I seek your vote, as I strive to work on your behalf for the betterment of our institute.

Get in touch

https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-newell-fciat-8436a545/

[email protected]