Professional qualifications, such as training and certifications, are required to work as an architect consultant. The exact career path to take is determined where one wishes to practice and the type of work one wishes to do. The term “architect consultant” can refer to two distinct jobs, one involving information technology and the other involving the design and implementation of structures, landscaping, and other built environments.
A bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or related fields is usually required for someone who wants to become an architect consultant in information technology. Certification in specific programming languages, systems, and protocols can also be beneficial. Many architect consultants have a background in the computing and technology industry before they start providing services, which can be extremely valuable.
This information technology professional may meet with a company’s executives to discuss the company’s goals and current activities in order to learn more about its information technology requirements. When he designs the company’s information technology architecture or works with a team of employees on the company’s IT, he should keep this information in mind. He can work as a freelancer or under the umbrella of a company after completing his training to become an architect consultant.
The other type of architect consultant assists and advises people who are creating new built environments during the design process. To work as an architect consultant, you’ll need to attend architecture school, complete several years of practical work under supervision, and apply for architect certification. The architect can provide consulting services using these skills. Before beginning consulting work, many architects work for architecture firms to gain experience and skills.
Continuing education requirements may be required of an architect who completes training to become an architect consultant. Retesting for certification on a regular basis, attending workshops and classes, and attending conferences with other architects are just a few examples. Architects who work for a consulting firm may be sponsored for continuing education activities their employers. Others will be on their own to cover these expenses.
In either case, the career path can be lengthy. An information technology professional or trained architect may take seven years or more to offer consulting services. Many people choose to specialize in one area of practice so that they can be more marketable to clients and compete for major contracts that require specialized training.