The American Institute of Architects California is delighted to announce the recipients of its 2025 Academy for Emerging Professionals Award recipients. Collectively, two emerging practitioners, a firm, and an AIA component, demonstrate the capacity for early career excellence, advocacy that advances emerging professionals as a whole, commitment to mentorship and support, and valuable education.
The field has a unique relationship with next-generation architects. With these precepts in mind, AIA California is honored to celebrate this year’s Academy for Emerging Professionals Award recipients.
In 2025, we honor the following recipients:
- Young Architect Award – Daniel Zweig, AIA
- Associate Award – Ali Rafieetari, Assoc. AIA
- Firm Mentorship Award – SmithGroup
- Chapter Award – AIA Silicon Valley
Young Architect Award Recipient: Daniel Zweig, AIA
Jury Notes:
Daniel Zweig’s work within his peer group is exceptional. His opportunity to work on select projects for a very well recognized firm speaks highly of his capabilities and his firm’s respect of his capacity to take on challenging work. He demonstrates an exemplary balance of in-office work effort as well as outreach to his peers and the community, exactly what this award is intended to showcase and promote.
Associate Award Recipient: Ali Rafieetari, Assoc. AIA
Jury Notes:
Ali Rafieetari’s dedication to sustainability, equity, and the advancement of emerging professionals is exemplary. His work bridges practice and advocacy, making a significant impact on the architectural community and beyond. He has truly contributed to the emerging professionals community. He understands how to express his values and beliefs in social justice and climate action in design for the built environment.
Firm Mentorship Award Recipient: SmithGroup
Jury Notes:
SmithGroup’s comprehensive, innovative programs support emerging professionals in meaningful ways, setting a high bar for mentorship within the industry. The jury is impressed by the scholarships that they offer, particularly for underrepresented students and young designers. Their influence on the next generation of architects is profound and they exemplify a firm that prioritizes mentorship at every level of practice.
Chapter Award Recipient: AIA Silicon Valley
Jury Notes:
AIA Silicon Valley has established itself as a leader in professional development for emerging architects through innovative programs and strong community engagement. It’s clear that the resources that AIA Silicon Valley provides for their emerging professionals and young architects is incredible and impressive. The chapter really prepares other early career architects and designers to contribute to bettering the built environment.
About the American Institute of Architects California (AIA CA)
AIA California is dedicated to serving its members, and uniting all architecture professionals in the design of a more just, equitable, and resilient future through advocacy, education, and political action. The organization represents the interests of more than 11,000 architects and allied professionals in California. Founded in 1944, the AIA CA is the largest component of the national AIA organization. For more information, visit www.aiacalifornia.org