TORCH Mentorship Program

The One-to-One Mentorship Program is a personal development, training, and leadership initiative that requires active participation. EPs interested in participating ideally have proven leadership, a willingness to learn, and a proactive character. Upon a review of submitted applications, each admitted TORCH mentee will be paired with a local FAIA acting as their mentor for one year.

Throughout the program, mentors and mentees will meet regularly in a setting and system of their choosing to discuss specific professional goals, while further developing and strengthening their relationship. Participants will cultivate communication and leadership skills, develop career maps, and expand professional and personal networks. Mentoring will entail, but is not limited to, the sharing of personal experiences, detailed guidance, portfolio and resume reviews, and discussions on personal career advancement. Be sure to check out our alumni class pages from the left sidebar.

Join us on Monday, April 16, 2026 from 6–8pm at the Center for Architecture for an informational networking event as we continue to accept applications for the 2026 TORCH Mentorship program.

TORCH Mentorship Program is designed to foster continuity and long-term leadership within the program. Select mentees will join the program’s Executive Committee, first by observing and later – stepping into a leadership role. In this capacity, they help guide and organize the program while mentoring the incoming cohort of Emerging Professionals. By transitioning from observer to leader, participants not only contribute to shaping the future of the mentorship program but also gain valuable experience in leadership, organization, and mentorship themselves.

Eligibility

• Applicants are expected to have a minimum of 3 years of experience working in the architecture profession.
• If accepted, AIA membership is required.

Applicants must submit the following:

• Cover Page: Name, Email Address, AIA Member Number
• Resume: 1-page maximum
• Portfolio Work Samples: 5-pages maximum (8.5 X 11″ in either orientation)
• Responses to the following questions, maximum 250 words each:
  • Why are you interested in the One-to-One Mentorship Program, what do you hope to achieve from it? In your response, identify up to three interest areas that you would like to explore/develop through mentorship.
  • Please describe your professional goals or aspirations, whether short-term (1–3 years) or long-term (5+ years) and share how a past or current experience has shaped these objectives.
  • Please describe specific examples of how you have demonstrated leadership or taken initiative in a professional or organizational context; and what motivates you to join and contribute to the TORCH Executive Committee as a leader.

Applications for the Class of 2026 are now open and due by 11:59 pm on Thursday, April 30, 2026.

The following materials will be used on the TORCH website and in promotional materials:

• Applicant Photo: A high-resolution color headshot in professional attire.
• Short Bio: A maximum 150-word biography written in the third person that summarizes the applicant’s professional background, key achievements, and personal interests.

Applications will be reviewed by the TORCH Executive Committee, composed of Emerging Professionals and the members of the College of the Fellows. Selected mentees will be notified via email and invited to an in-person Speed-mentoring event to facilitate mentor-mentee pairing based on career goals and mutual interests.

Participation in the Speed-mentoring event, taking place on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 from 6–8pm at the Center for Architecture, is mandatory.

For more information on the TORCH Mentorship Program or questions, please email us: [email protected].