r/Architects

I frequently see posts about moving on from conventional architectural practice to work in a related field, maybe in construction management or real estate.

But I’m curious to hear about extreme career or lifestyle changes, where someone totally noped out of architecture and the built environment altogether, and started a flower shop or opened a bar.

I’ve been working in LA metro area for 16 years in firms where it’s a sole practitioner to multinational AE firms with thousands of employees.

I enjoyed the mid-sized firms the best. 20-50 people not including support staff. I had either got laid off because they couldn’t survive recession or I quit because there was no work in the pipeline. I really miss working in a mid-sized firm and have struggled to find the right one - if there are any. Where are all the mid-sized firms at in LA?? Is it just that they all die off because it’s hard to run a business at that scale , or are they now just getting sold off/ absorbed or grow?

And- is this your experience elsewhere either in the US or any where else on the planet?

Hello all!

Here is some background. I have been looking for a junior architecture job in Toronto, Ontario since I graduated a little over 2 years ago. I managed to get a position working at an interior design/build company for about a year before the company crashed and burned, and I got laid off (with 4 months of unpaid wages, btw). I did get some valuable experience and have also been doing freelance work for a couple of clients. Now I am nearing the end of my unemployment insurance and I am panicking once again.

For starters, there are practically no roles for entry-level or little experience posted for my city or surrounding area; when there are, I jump on them and write a custom cover letter, try to get in touch with someone there, etc. For anything I have applied for, I have been either ghosted or rejected rather quickly, and I am not sure why. I have also been trying to look into networking events, but I'm having trouble finding anything with a social aspect; it's pretty much only walking tours and lectures or expensive workshops. I did a lot of connecting with professors before I got my last job and it helped a bit, however I don't think there is much more they can do for me.

I guess my questions are:

- Am I doing something fundamentally incorrect?

- Are there glaring issues with my portfolio/resume? (any feedback is welcome!)

- Should all documents be in one file or separate files? (Eg. resume, portfolio, letters of recommendation)

- Are there any better places to look for networking opportunities?

- I was debating going into nearby offices and offering part-time services/dropping off a business card but I'm not sure about the etiquette on this. I know architects are extremely busy and likely don't have time, but I have heard mixed opinions. Is this a good idea?

- I have also been considering working in construction labour (I have a little bit of experience). What is the best way to find those job opportunities?

I'll finish this off by saying I know the economy is bad, but this is something I still really want to do, and I can't afford to wait for it to bounce back. I would really appreciate anyone's thoughts or perspectives.

Here is my portfolio/resume combined: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lxm7KvPlBIGCjftK3g-q4gjlks2lZReh/view?usp=drive_link

This is a shot in the dark as I know we’re not always ready to provide technical advice in this sub. I have been searching for eons and trying to find a floor assembly for a steel truss (not c-shaped joist) that meets 2 hours. Perhaps they need serious blocking because of the open nature of the trusses? Not wanting to create a smoke baffle?

Any insight would be GREATLY appreciated!