Architects, what next?

I think we need to create a new line of work of out of work architects. I know that we have gotten plenty of inquiries from candidates that would not have even bothered contacting my organization a few years back. All this talent, we need to find a solution.

This NY Times article hits home for to many architects:

In fact, Mr. Morefield, 29, is no politician, but an architectural designer looking for work. He was seated at a homemade wooden stand under a sign reading “Architecture 5¢,” with a tin can nearby awaiting spare change. For a nickel, he would answer any architectural question.

In 2008, Mr. Morefield lost his job — twice — and thought he could ride out the recession doing design work for friends and family, but when those jobs dried up, he set up his stand. As someone in his 20s without many contacts or an extensive portfolio, he thought he might have an easier time finding clients on his own.

“I didn’t know what I was going to do,” Mr. Morefield said. “I had no other option. The recession was a real kick in the shorts, and I had to make this work.”

I know a few out of work architects, I just wish I had a good plan for how we could work together on projects and get them paid. There has got to be a way.