We are honored to have been recognized again this year by AIA Oklahoma as an Exemplary AXP Friendly Firm, “for going above and beyond to help bridge the gap between education and experience by creating an environment that uniquely embraces the path to licensure. Firms benefit by creating an atmosphere of learning and professional growth, promoting professional development of staff so that more responsibility can be shared and fostering relationships among staff that create a positive environment which aids in retention of employees and a positive reputation among likely recruits.”
We make it a top priority to hand-select, train, and empower our employees. Some of the benefits we provide include payment of all NCARB and AIA annual fees, study materials, and paid time off to take the Architect Registration Examination. In early 2020, SGA purchased a firm license to the Amber Book, which allows candidates to study at their own pace utilizing online material. So even though our original plans for 2020 were disrupted by the pandemic, our intern architects have still been able to stay on track studying for their exams.
“SGA strives to provide useful study resources, financial support, and encouragement for staff in the firm that are on the path to licensure. We have access to different experiences that allow us to complete our AXP hours. Although it is an arduous process, I have always felt supported in my path to licensure here,” said Olivia Good, who is currently working to obtain her license to practice architecture in the State of Oklahoma. “It has been evident that SGA cares not only for our growth potential in the firm but also for our personal growth in our overall careers. SGA has talented leaders who have not only shared their experience with the ARE process but offer advice, support and a listening ear. I know they are cheering us on!”
This 2020 recognition adds to SGA Design Group’s long and rich history of supporting emerging professionals. We were the first firm in the state to be granted the AIA Oklahoma Intern-Friendly Firm designation (pre-cursor to the AXP Friendly Firm), and AIA Central States Region has recognized us with similar awards. On a national level, we’ve been recognized by AIA and NCARB with the 2008-2011 IDP Firm Award as well as the IDP Outstanding Firm Award in 2007, and again for 2011-2014.