Entry Requirements

In order to qualify as a Chartered Architectural Technologist, you need to have either a CIAT accredited degree in Architectural Technology, or a closely related subject. These can qualify you for Associate membership of CIAT from which you can then progress onto Chartered Membership. Having an HND/HNC in Architectural Technology or any subject within the Built Environment may enable you to become a Chartered Architectural Technologist, through CIAT’s technician route to membership (see architectural technician). For more information visit http://www.ciat.org.uk/. Gaining and retaining appropriate qualification and membership of a professional institute shows that you are competent in that discipline to that level.

The Benefits

Chartered Members of CIAT (MCIAT) may practise on their own account or with fellow Chartered Architectural Technologists, architects, engineers, surveyors and other professionals within the construction industry. As professionals adhering to a Code of Conduct, they are required to obtain and maintain Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII) if providing services directly to clients. Salaries range from £18,000 to £40,000 but for further information see professional institutions and industry press.

Additional benefits may include access to CPD and structured professional training as well as the opportunity to travel across the UK and overseas.

The Job

Architectural technologists are specialists in the application and integration of technology into design and construction. They specify and select technology, materials and processes in order to design buildings for production and performance. Chartered Architectural Technologists (that is Chartered Members of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists, CIAT) are recognised as being qualified to manage design and construction projects from inception through to completion.

The People  

For starters, you'll need to be both creative and able to think things through in a logical way. You'll also need to be good at communicating and dealing with people, as it's likely you'll spend a good deal of your time negotiating - and working with pretty strict planning and building control authorities! To find out more about what it takes to make it as an architectural technologist, visit http://www.ciat.org.uk/ 

See what Tina Dufty has to say about working as an architectural technologist.