People

AIA East Bay is a professional community supporting architects and emerging professionals across the San Francisco East Bay. We connect people to trusted knowledge, mentorship, and resources that help advance careers, strengthen the profession, and support the path to licensure.

Executive Director at AIA East Bay and founder of PrepARE. After listening to hundreds of ARE candidates describe the same frustrations, isolation, scattered resources, and lack of accountability, my Board and I committed to building something better. PrepARE began as an online learning site, and PrepARE Connect is its companion, created to bring people together and lower barriers to licensure. In partnership with Kevin Griendling, whose expertise and passion for mentoring emerging professionals

East Bay resident since 2008. Architectural designer since 2014. AIA East Bay member since 2020. Architectural practitioner since 2026.

I spent my career as an architect in facilities project management in industry and then in government. In my role as "client," I hired other architects, engineers and builders to plan, design and construct facilities and campuses for corporate, university, scientific, medical and public works. I enjoy mentorship and being an NCARB licensing advisor. I have lived in the Bay Area 50 years, am a mother and grandmother! Rona Rothenberg FAIA Pls contact@: rona.rothenberg@yahoo.com 510-506-3093

Architectural designer and founder of Terra Nova Design Co. in the San Francisco Bay Area. My work focuses on residential design, ADUs, infill housing, and small multifamily development. I’m currently studying for the ARE while expanding my practice toward architect-led development, with a focus on high-performance, comfortable, and financially sustainable housing.

I’m studying for the ARE and working on strengthening my understanding of contracts and financial management.

I am a professional in the architecture field with 5 years of experience currently seeking licensure.

Project Manager in Education Sector in Southern California

Been in Architecture for over 25 years. Starting to take the ARE

Licensing Advisor North, AIA California. I received my California license in 2023, following one of the alternative paths to licensure (pre-professional degree in architecture + work experience). My journey has been a winding one, starting in 2005 with my first year of architecture school, and involving many side journeys (married, kids, and a cross-country move) before getting back on the licensure path. I'm here to support to the best of my abilities!

Architectural Designer and AIA Detroit Emerging Professionals Committee Co-Chair. I'm following the Amber Book method of studying all divisions together, and taking exams in close proximity. My goal is to pass all exams this year!

https://linkedin.com/ari-bible

As an independent designer (2 exams away from licensure!), I practice spatial design, interior design, and project and construction management for hospitality and residential projects. I am inspired by a phenomenological lens, endeavoring to shape environments where light, texture, and atmosphere harmonize and create visceral experiential impact, spaces that feel alive, resonant, and deeply human.

"Licensed architect track — Assistant Plan Examiner at NYC DOB, working toward all six ARE divisions. I've passed some and am retaking PCM (and have PjM and CE ahead of me). Studying around a full-time job and a lot going on at home right now, so I'm building a realistic, consistent routine rather than cramming. Looking for structure and accountability — that's what's worked best for me so far

I am a licensed architect in four states, and have been registered since 1999. I was born and raised in Texas, and went to UT Arlington. The majority of my experience has been in the commercial realm working for smaller firms.

Murrye Bernard, AIA, LEED AP, CDT, is a licensed architect, architecture and design journalist, and editorial strategist. A former managing editor of Contract, she now writes for leading architecture and design publications. She earned her architecture degree from the University of Arkansas and passed all seven divisions of ARE 4.0 on her first attempt. She joined PrepARE to give candidates the guidance, encouragement, and community she wishes she had during her own path to licensure.

founder and director of NEA Studio, architectural design Teach Interior design

I have an interior design BA from Central Michigan '01 and worked as a kitchen designer before attending Andrews University (MArch '19). I received my first license 3 years, 4 months later from Missouri, and have since added licenses in Michigan, Minnesota and New Jersey. I am currently working for MG2 as a Project Manager.

Bay Area based professional with 18 years of experience in architecture & design. I'm halfway through the ARE, and ready to knock out the second half!

Licensed Architect with 20+ years experience. I'm the AIA Illinois Licensing advisor and have worked with candidates looking to get licensed through various NCARB Alternate pathways.

I am an AEC professional who wants to be a licensed architect