A multifaceted profession

Architecture is a complex discipline, and mastering it requires time. The practice of architecture is broad and demands in-depth knowledge across a wide range of fields. Architects must be both artists and technicians, understand their country’s history and municipal regulations, possess a foundation in engineering, be effective managers, and at times even act as entrepreneurs.

From academic training to professional practice

Despite a five-year university education, students do not have the opportunity to experience all aspects of professional practice. This is why, after completing their studies, future architects must undertake a professional internship totaling 3,720 hours. In this context, the profession has a responsibility to support interns as they prepare for practice, notably through the role of the internship supervisor. Each intern is guided by a member of the Ordre des architectes du Québec throughout this initiation period, which concludes with the Examination for Architects in Canada (ExAC).

Firm-level commitment to emerging professionals 

Across the province, architecture firms demonstrate varying levels of commitment to supporting future professionals. This involvement often takes the form of participation in training initiatives, financial support, and recognition of student work through scholarships and awards.

Like many firms, STGM Architecture places strong emphasis on training the next generation and on transmitting knowledge and expertise across all areas of architectural practice. This includes architectural design, project management, real estate planning, built heritage preservation, regulations, construction contract documentation, site supervision and contract administration, building information modeling, and envelope performance.

We regularly welcome new interns into our team and create conditions that allow them to grow into confident, competent professionals. Our goal is to enable them to contribute meaningfully to both the firm’s success and the overall quality of architectural production.

Strong ties with academic institutions

We implement several initiatives to encourage continuous knowledge sharing. Our relationships with the schools of architecture at Université Laval and Université de Montréal take many forms. Some of our architects are directly involved in student education as lecturers, teaching specialized courses or design studios, or supervising final projects. Others regularly participate as jury members during public reviews of student work. Invitations to conferences, symposiums, research projects, interdisciplinary charrettes, and student-led events are welcomed with enthusiasm.

Recognizing practice and fostering dialogue

A recent example is the “Reconnaître l’architecture” event held last week. Organized by the graduating committee of Université Laval’s School of Architecture, this first edition brought together many members of Québec’s architectural community at Le Diamant theatre in a warm and festive atmosphere. The evening aimed to highlight the value of architectural practice and to discuss professional opportunities available to graduates as they complete their academic journey.

Celebrating an ending and a beginning

In the coming weeks, graduates from Québec’s three schools of architecture will present their final projects, the result of months of work and the culmination of a demanding educational path. We wish them a rewarding and fulfilling experience, one that reflects the effort invested and brings well-deserved pride.

To recognize these efforts, STGM has awarded the “Étonnez-nous” scholarship to a Université Laval architecture graduate for several years. This year also marks the first presentation of the “Heritage and modernity” scholarship at Université de Montréal. We will be present at the project exhibitions in Québec City and Montréal to celebrate this important milestone and acknowledge the outstanding work of the next generation. Supporting emerging professionals is a responsibility we proudly embrace, year after year.