What is capX?
The California Architectural Practice Experience (capX), established in 2024, is a statewide program that provides hands-on, real-world experience in architecture firms, other practice settings, and with individual mentors virtually. While community college students are a key focus, capX supports participants at all stages, including graduates seeking employment opportunities.
capX connects architects, students, emerging professionals, educational institutions, and AIA Chapters across California and aims to increase the number of firms actively engaging with the next generation. For firms with established internship programs, capX provides a platform and community to share best practices and resources, and promotes a philosophy of “opening the door wider” to welcome a more diverse and inclusive pathway to the profession.
How it Works
capX connects individuals interested in architecture with firms of all sizes for paid internships, job-shadowing opportunities and one-on-one virtual mentoring. The program is a flexible resource designed to:
- Create internships, job-shadowing, and mentoring opportunities for firms
- Supplement existing firm internship or mentorship programs
- Provide a clear, ongoing pathway for firms and participants to engage with the architectural pipeline
Enrollment is completed through an online form. In 2026, there will be two registration periods: Spring and Fall. Participants choose the timeframe and structure that best fits their needs, with options for spring, summer, or ongoing schedules, as well as paid internships, academic credit, unpaid job shadowing, or virtual mentoring. A recommended donation helps support the program.
AIA Chapters play a key role sharing enrollment dates and encouraging local firm and emerging professional participation. In turn, capX connects students and emerging professionals with their local AIA Chapter, introducing them to valuable networking opportunities and resources available through AIA.
Who can participate?
capX is open to firms and students, including those exploring architecture as a career or currently enrolled in architecture programs (community college or university). It is also open to individuals on the experience-only path to licensure who are eager to deepen their understanding of the profession.
What skills will students / early practitioners gain?
Through shadowing, interning and virtual mentoring, capX participants gain firsthand insight into the architectural profession. They meet practicing architects, connect with mentors, and receive guidance to help them on their professional journey. The program currently includes two virtual courses: Architecture Experience 101 and 102 and two recorded annual meet-up sessions to help emerging professionals understand what to expect and how to maximize their firm experience.
Why should firms participate?
By participating as an individual capX mentor or host firm, you:
- Can establish a new internship, job-shadowing or virtual mentoring program—or enhance an existing one
- Expand your connection to the talent pipeline
- Directly influence and shape the next generation of architects
- Support industry growth and diversity by providing equitable access to practical experiences
- Gain fresh perspectives and benefit from the skills, creativity, and enthusiasm that students bring to a firm
What do educational institutions gain by participating?
capX strengthens the connection between classroom learning and real-world experience. Educational institutions benefit from:
- Improved job placement rates
- Enhanced relationships with industry professionals
- Enriched educational experiences through practical skill development
What Makes capX Special?
capX is more than an intern “matching” program, it’s an ongoing, statewide initiative that builds a collaborative network of students, emerging professionals, architects, firms, and educational institutions. As the program grows over time, it will continue to respond to emerging trends in architecture education and practice while strengthening the profession in California.
For students, capX offers flexibility and choice: they can gain experience with firms near their school or closer to home during breaks, pursue paid or unpaid opportunities, and select the schedule and structure that best fits their goals. For firms and schools, the program can provide resources, guidance, and support to develop and expand opportunities. The capX community that grows over time will shape the program’s future, guiding how it evolves, expands, and continues to strengthen the architectural profession in California.