Architects take many paths to achieve licensure. AIA South Dakota members know what it takes to earn a stamp. Some people move from their college degree directly through the Architect Registration Examination. Others work more long-term in the design field, explore alternate careers, devote time to family, or travel. However an architect earns licensure, we celebrate their achievement and hope they’ll take full advantage of the opportunities offered by AIA membership.
Paige Riddle, AIA, earned her South Dakota architect license in December 2024. She is with EAPC Architects.
How did you decide to become an architect? Is there a specific moment you remember noticing design in the world around you?
I had the opportunity to take a drafting class at Watertown High School that started my interest in architecture. This was followed by a building trades class where you learn what goes into construction by building a house from the ground up. This helped me focus my goal on becoming an architect.
Tell us about your path to licensure and/or your work history. Who was the first person you told when you got your good news?
While studying at NDSU, I started an internship the summer after my second year that continued through to graduation for my Master’s. Once I had graduated, I worked at LEO A DALY in Minneapolis on a variety of healthcare projects. After moving back to South Dakota, I started working with EAPC to continue my experience on healthcare projects as well as those in the higher education sector. After gaining experience in all phases of the design process, I felt I was ready to begin the next step toward licensure. A lot of time and effort has gone into studying the past year. When I received the news that everything was official, I was very excited to celebrate with my family.
What project has taught you the most so far? What made it such a valuable experience?
One project that taught me the most, but also was very rewarding, was the Allina Health Cancer Institute. This project had a lot of moving parts, with the goal of providing the best care for its patients. One of the things that made it a valuable experience was showing the importance of coordination between the project team to give the user groups the best project possible.
I have been enjoying spending time and creating new experiences with my four-month-old. As an avid golfer, I look forward to teaching him when he is able to swing a club.
What’s one thing—industry-related or not—you learned in the last three months?
Be a sponge! There are many opportunities and lessons to be learned from our mentors that can be applied to our projects. Mentoring can help provide a knowledge base for those who are studying now.
AIA South Dakota is the professional non-profit membership association of architects, future architects, and partners in the building and design industries, and the state chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) AIA South Dakota advances the mission that design matters in every South Dakota community.