The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has announced that they are working with members of Congress to help craft student loan debt relief and create more entryways towards the architecture field.

The potential pathways for student loan debt relief include service-based loan forgiveness in the Civilian Climate Corps, a newly proposed $10 billion program that would employ young people to short-term jobs or training programs that focus on renewable technology and building resilience against the threats of climate change. AIA is teaming up with the American Bar Association to highlight that high student loan debt is an equity issue that deters students from considering professions in architecture. 

AIA 2021 President Peter Exley, FAIA, and AIA EVP/Chief Executive Officer Robert Ivy, FAIA, met with South Carolina Representative Jim Clyburn on September 21 to explain how student loan debt is negatively impacting the architecture profession. 

“AIA stands ready to work with Congressman Clyburn on a path forward for service-based loan forgiveness programs, so that architecture students who want to use their design education to better their communities are financially able to do so,” said Ivy.

AIA has also supported the bipartisan Retirement Parity in Student Loans Act, which would allow employees to make student loan payments while receiving employer matching contributions to their retirement plan.

“In order to increase equity in the profession and to break down barriers of entry, it’s essential that Congress do more to reduce the student loan debt burden on our younger generations,” said Exley. “The high costs of education, especially as the profession requires study beyond a four-year college degree, coupled with the financial strain that can be caused by the licensure process, are real deterrents to many considering a career in the profession. AIA is committed to working with all members of Congress to find solutions that will reduce the student loan debt burden, which will also allow us to attract greater diversity and talent to the profession.”