Our National History

Twelve African-American architects from different parts of the country met, some for the first time, during the AIA National Convention in Detroit in 1971. What these professionals recognized was the desperate need for an organization dedicated to the development and advancement of minority architects. Today, NOMA  consists of 26 chapters and 500 members internationally.

That was the beginning of the National Organization of Minority Architects, an increasing influential voice, promoting the quality and excellence of minority design professionals.

The History of NOMA Pittsburgh

NOMAPGH is the Pittsburgh metropolitan area chapter of NOMA. Established in 2014,  NOMAPGH presently consists of 20 members with a diverse array of experience and skills. NOMAPGH is a non-profit organization successfully ran with the support and dedication of volunteers and members. We seek to remove discrimination within our profession and strengthen the awareness and career opportunities for minorities within the field of architecture.  

Our mission is to champion diversity within the design professions by promoting the excellence, community engagement, and professional development of its members.

NOMAPGH hosts a variety of activities intended to educate and provide a foundation to foster positive professional relationships. Previous engagements have included networking socials as well as information sessions hosted by vendors and members. Through mentorship and collaboration, the chapter has established an ARE cohort to encourage its younger members to continue the path to licensure.  While we believe it is important to mentor our membership we also see the value in exposing the profession to our youth. We do this specifically through the NOMA initiative – Project Pipeline. The program is a STEM pipeline designed to expose underrepresented children to the built environment and architectural profession as early as the third grade and through the twelfth grade.

1
Advocacy
We work as a team to create positive changes for minority architects and designer in the city of Pittsburgh.
2
Inclusion
We welcome ALL designers and allied professionals. Individuals from diverse backgrounds can offer a selection of different talents, skills and experiences.
3
Support
Diversity is a complex issue. We support each other and collaborate to find new ways to bridge the gaps that exist in the field of architecture.

People of Color are significantly underrepresented in the Architecture Profession. The American Institute of Architects (AIA) and The National Council of Architecture Registration Boards (NCARB) have both issued recent surveys that show the disparity in minority representation among Architects. As the City of Pittsburgh makes efforts to create a more Equitable Pittsburgh, NOMA PGH is working to provide a platform, a voice and a support system for it’s members and community advocates.

1.
5
%
African American Men
.
3
%
African American Women
-
1
%
Latino or Hispanic New Licensure Candidates
8
%
Asian New Licensure Candidates