While the intent behind the latest controversial move by NCARB was meant to improve NCARB’s Intern Development Program (IDP), many fear that the almost unanimous passing of the “6 Month Rule” may not have been in the best interest of the intern architects pursuing licensure. The 6 Month Rule consists of three interdependent parts: electronic reporting, supervisor guidelines, and a six-month regulated reporting period. NCARB is taking a step forward by instituting electronic reporting and supervisor guidelines, as this will assist in facilitating and expediting the IDP process, but I think NCARB taken a step back by introducing a regulated six-month reporting period.
As much as I agree with necessitating accurate and timely reporting, if firms and schools do not encourage these changes, there is a chance that many intern architects could lose valuable training experience. While the decision can’t be changed, there are better ways than making invalid legitimate training experience to penalize intern architects (i.e., late fees). For NCARB to discredit valid training experience seems unfair.
On the other hand, kudos to NCARB for realizing that sometimes the untimely reporting is not the fault of the intern architect. The organization has stated that once interns enter their training unit reports into the online system, the validity of the units will not be affected by any delay caused by their supervisor or by NCARB. Also, there are a few circumstances that allow interns to apply for an extension (medical conditions/birth/military service). While it is important for NCARB to get the information about these recent changes to the current firms and schools, it is equally important for firms, schools, and individuals to keep current on updates and changes to licensure requirements.
NCARB is trying to address many of the concern as to how the 6 Month Rule will affect interns and supervisors, and it continues to publish information on the ruling on the website. The AIA is working with NCARB and state registration boards to develop strategies to guarantee a smooth transition. On the national level, the National Associates Committee is in contact with NCARB to keep up-to-date on new changes. Locally, communication is happening with the NYS Licensing Board, via e-mail, and through Blog Central. In addition, check out the AIANY Emerging NY Architects committee Facebook Group for continued discussions and updates.
Vanesa Alicea, Assoc. AIA, is AIANY Associate Director.