There's no denying it, the workforce is changing and after the impact Millennials made over the years a new demographic cohort is quickly replacing this group. Generation Z or "Gen Z" as many have grown to call them are a generation who have been surrounded by technology since birth. 

With high levels of digital literacy their ability to adapt to this every evolving technological world is exciting. The young people of today are filled with ideas and collaborative efforts that will create distinct societal shifts. However, can their work ethic stack up to the demands of the architecture profession? Perhaps their levels of digital and emotional aptitude can help the profession exceed past its aging nuances? 

Gen Z, with their technical savvy and tendency toward collaboration and individual expression, may be the best fit yet for the profession"

In a recent article written by Michele Russo for AIA Architect, she highlights this new group's impact in the workplace. Russo elaborates their impact on firms in succinct detail. "Gen Z, with their technical savvy and tendency toward collaboration and individual expression, may be the best fit yet for the profession. However, there is a lot to be considered to attract, retain, and harness those traits."

In regards to professional training and development she explains, "Gen Z will bring tremendous technological savvy and skill to the workplace. They fluidly consume and research information online, and despite some perceptions, do not blindly trust online content. According to a study by Common Sense Media, only a quarter of children think that news posted online by news organizations and people they are close to is very accurate, and even fewer (only 7 percent) think news from people they don’t know is very accurate."

"These online skills will be ones that workplaces should embrace and nurture, rather than try to stymie. Technology is rapidly changing. Your Gen Z employees may help you stay competitive as this change occurs."

Check out our Archinect Discussion Forum where the topic of Gen Z is discussed.