The latest NCARB Workforce Readiness Report for 2024 has outlined a list of imperatives called key knowledge, skills, and abilities (or KSAs) for students of architecture to gain prior to their entering the professional ranks over the next few years. 

Leaning on the input of thousands of current entry-level professionals, the survey outlined the following areas as being most critical to the success of young designers working in the architectural field:

Target: Technical Proficiency

1. Learn as much and as many BIM design programs (2D and 3D) as you can. Demonstrating proficiency in industry-standard design software can lead to many different opportunities as students move away from the relatively more creative confines of academic coursework and into offices that may require them to focus on a specific project component or unfamiliar typology. 
2. Develop an ease at deciphering and assembling technical drawings, construction documents, etc. in addition to their correct applications in AEC. Understanding their importance to the specifications process is essential too. 
3. The shown ability to make corrective edits based on redline comments is another must-have regardless of the degree program.
4. Study and familiarize building code requirements toward both a "fundamental awareness" and aptitude for researching regulations in particular jurisdictions. 
5. Develop a deep and comprehensive understanding of different commonly used architectural building materials.

Target: Problem-Solving/Research and Analysis

1. All new architects should possess the ability to employ their own independent solutions to challenging architectural problems, their own analytical responses to site conditions, land use, and material constraints.
2. Time management and organizational skills are a must as with all professions and job types.

Target: People/Soft Skills

1. Understand the importance of collaboration as it obtains to achieving goals and overcoming challenges.
2. Demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills in the office and online. 
3.  Understand clients' decision-making processes and needs for each project.
4. Apply feedback from Senior Architects as directed.

According to NCARB, the survey took in more than 2,250 respondents, with 72% of responses from licensed and 28% from non-licensed individuals. The organization also says it concerned itself with how these KSAs might align with the Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) of Associate of Applied Science (AAS) programs at community colleges. 

NCARB's CEO Mike Armstrong spoke with Archinect for several recent features about the future of licensure, its relation to DEI, the little-known attempt to abolish licensure in California, and the use of the title of 'architect' itself. 

You can, of course, explore current entry-level opportunities via Archinect Jobs.