For Architecture Firms

Invest in the profession.
Mentor the next generation.

capX makes it easy for California firms of any size to open their doors to emerging talent for a day, a week, or a full summer. Firms can also participate virtually by mentoring students online.

Enroll anytime and update your profile whenever your opportunities or availability change.

Every touchpoint matters. Whether you host, hire, shadow, or mentor, your involvement helps inspire the next generation of architects.

capX is supported through donations. A suggested annual contribution of $125 for firms (and $25 for students) helps sustain this statewide program.
Why firms join capX

More than an internship program.
A commitment to the profession.

01
Flexible on your terms
Whether you can offer a single day of job shadowing, a virtual mentoring session, or a full paid internship, capX works around your capacity.
02
Access diverse, motivated talent
Connect with enrolled candidates from high schools, community colleges, universities, and experience-only pathways across California, all in one place, saving valuable time and expanding your reach.
03
Build a more inclusive profession
capX is intentionally designed to reduce barriers for underrepresented students. Your participation directly contributes to a more diverse and equitable architectural workforce.
04
Donate to Support
The program is supported by donations from the participants. A suggested annual donation of $125 for firms helps to support the program's administration, resource development and community.
05
Existing programs welcome
Already have an internship program? Join capX and extend your reach. Invite your current interns to mentor those just starting out, and share the tools and resources your firm has developed on the capX resource page to help fellow firms bring mentorship into their own practice.
06
Supporting the profession
Participating firms actively contribute to AIA California and CAF's commitment to pipeline development, workforce readiness, and the long-term health of the architectural profession.
How it works

Simple to join.
Meaningful to do.

01
Enrollr your firm
Complete the short enrollment form below. Tell us about your practice, your capacity, and what kind of experience you can offer. CAF reviews and approves within a few days.
02
Browse & connect
Log in for full access to enrolled emerging professionals across California. Filter by location, experience type, and education path. Review profiles, resumes, and portfolios. Connect directly with candidates who interest you.
03
Host & mentor
Welcome your capX participant into your firm. CAF provides the connection and resources, you provide the mentorship and real-world exposure.
Get Involved

Ready to open
your doors?

Join the growing network of California firms investing in the next generation. Enrollment takes about five minutes.

Now open year-around. No enrollment cycles. Enroll once and update your availability whenever your needs change.

  • Open to all AIA California architecture firms with an AIA member contact
  • Firms of every size, from sole practitioners to large studios are welcome
  • Firms with existing internship programs are encouraged to participate 
  • Showcase your firm’s support of the next generation
  • No obligation to select a candidate-simply connect when the right opportunity arises
Questions before signing up?

We would love to talk through what participation looks like for your specific firm: caf@aiacalifornia.org or call 916-642-1730.

capX is a Community

Thank you for
investing in what's next.

Every firm that opens its doors through capX is doing something genuinely meaningful, not only for the individual they're hosting, but for the future shape of the architectural profession in California. We don't take that lightly, and we're grateful for it.
capX grows because of the people in it. Your feedback: what's working, what could be better, what you wish existed — directly shapes how this capX evolves.
Reach out anytime
caf@aiacalifornia.org
Internships have always been a key part of how our firm supports emerging talent, and the capX program has been a valuable addition. Our firm leadership appreciates how capX helps students and recent graduates take their first steps in the profession. As the program grows and more firms get involved, we believe it will play a crucial role in preparing a strong new generation of architects.
—Lee salin , faia | ABA Architects
capX made it really convenient to connect with community college students without having to create specific posts or search on our own. Since upperclassmen are often preferenced for these opportunities, we wanted to help community college students get their foot in the door. We met a lot of great students through capX and offered job shadowing that gave them a chance to see a wider range of activities in our firm.
— Cecily Ng, AIA | Leddy Maytum STacy
Our firm made a committment to one paid intern per year. If you are invested in the next generation, consider making this a goal.
— CArina Mills, AIA | RDC-S111