About the course

Date: April 21, 2026 at 12:00 PM ET 
Registration Fee: FREE for Members; Non-Member: $19  
Registration closes: April 20 at 4 p.m. ET

This event is part of The Deep Dive: A Roundtable Series for Emerging Professionals.

Architecture plays a central role in shaping communities and the built environment, yet the profession is often misunderstood. Many emerging professionals encounter misconceptions about what architects do, the value they bring to projects, and the responsibilities they carry throughout the design and construction process.

This session explores how architects can strengthen public understanding of the profession by clarifying its scope, communicating its impact more effectively, and demonstrating leadership on complex projects. Through practical examples and candid discussion, the presenters will address common myths surrounding architecture, including the perception that architects only “draw buildings,” as well as misunderstandings about fees, authority, and collaboration within the construction industry.

Participants will gain insight into: 

  • Common misconceptions about the architectural profession and why they persist
  • The broader scope of architectural responsibilities beyond design and documentation
  • Practical ways to communicate the value of architectural services to clients and collaborators
  • Strategies for strengthening professional credibility early in one’s career 

This session is designed for emerging and early-career professionals who want to better understand how they can contribute to strengthening the profession’s reputation through professional conduct, communication, and leadership within multidisciplinary teams. 

Additional Notes:

An electronic registration confirmation will be emailed to you once your registration is complete.

This event is offered in a live format and will be recorded.

You will receive an email with a link to the Zoom meeting and a reminder the day prior.

Speakers:

'Seyi Olusakin, MRAIC

‘Seyi Olusakin is a licensed architect, AAA, AIBC, AANB, LEED Accredited Professional, and certified Project Management Professional (PMP®) with over 15 years of experience leading architecture and infrastructure projects across Canada. As the founder and principal of Shey Design + Architecture Inc., he brings a visionary yet practical approach to design—one that blends strategic leadership with deep technical expertise.

‘Seyi’s career spans a wide spectrum of roles—from technologist to project architect, project manager, and now partner—giving him a firsthand understanding of the many pathways available in the profession. Dedicated to mentoring and championing early-career professionals in architecture, he brings honesty, humour, and insight to conversations about navigating careers in the built environment.

Marc-André Maillé, MIRAC

Marc-André Maillé has been working for 26 years as a designer and project manager in residential, commercial, institutional, and industrial environments. As a senior principal architect and engineer, he easily bridges the gap between the different disciplines of architects and engineers, as well as master builders and project owners. Mr. Maillé has developed a flexible, attentive, and rational approach that leads to architecture with contemporary technology, functional design, and integration into its environment, both natural and built.

Registrations: Open

Register now