Cornerstone’s very own Johanna Scogin recently passed her final Architect Registration Exam (ARE), in combination with having previously completed the Architectural Experience Program (AXP) by logging the required minimum of 3,740 hours working in an architecture firm or related field. This means she is now recognized as a licensed architect in the state of Virginia by the American Institute of Architects.
We are so proud of Johanna’s achievement and are honored to have her on the Cornerstone team. Recently, we sat down with her for—what we’re calling—a “Q&J” so she could share more about herself and how she got to where she is today.
Q: How long have you worked in the industry?
J: I have worked in the architecture industry for about 5 1/2 years, with one additional year on site at Habitat for Humanity, building houses and supervising construction crews.
Q: How were you able to balance completing the program and working full-time?
J: Well, I knew I wanted to be licensed early on so I actually began the process of tracking hours for the AXP at Habitat. But I gained the bulk of my experience at Cornerstone, where I was able to immerse myself in every step of the design and construction process. I was able to pass all of my exams while working at Cornerstone, thanks to the variety of project types and problem-solving involved.
Q: What do you love about working at Cornerstone?
J: I love all the levels of interaction I get to have with clients, engineers and contractors.
Q: What Cornerstone project have you enjoyed working on the most?
J: It’s hard to decide between all the veterinary work we do, like Richmond Animal League Spay & Neuter Clinic and Huguenot Animal Hospital or the historic rehabilitation work like Beale’s Brewery & BBQ, as all are rewarding in their own way. I love making spaces tailored to a client’s needs so that they can enjoy them for years to come.
Q: What are the most important things you learned from the architecture licensure process?
J: I think I gained a greater understanding to all the facets of an architect’s role in projects. I also learned more about the day-to-day processes needed to produce a better project outcome.
Q: Now that you’re no longer studying, what are you going to do with all your free time?
J: I’m really excited to have time for other hobbies like reading books—not related to architecture—and relaxing at home!
