What is capX?
The California Architectural Practice Experience Program (capX) is a statewide effort that connects architecture firms with students for paid internships, job shadowing, and one on one virtual mentoring. It gives students meaningful, real world experience inside the profession. For firms that do not currently host students or emerging professionals, capX offers an easy and flexible entry point into mentoring. For firms with established programs, it is a chance to open their doors a bit wider and welcome community college students and others exploring architecture. https://calarchfoundation.org/capx/
Firms are the heart of this program. Your participation is what creates opportunities for students who might not otherwise gain exposure to the profession. It is also an easy way to introduce our AIASMC Chapter to the next generation and help grow our future members and leaders. It’s a big return for students and the profession.
Host an Intern, Job Shadow, or Virtual Mentoring Experience in 2026
Firm enrollment is now open for the California Architectural Practice Experience (capX) Program, a statewide initiative of AIA CA and the California Architectural Foundation (CAF).
capX connects architecture firms and other practice settings with aspiring architects, offering students real insight into the profession while giving firms a direct role in shaping its future. In 2026, capX will continue its focus on supporting community college students, while keeping the program open to all pathways including graduates and experience only candidates.
Here are a few ways your firm can make a meaningful impact:
✔ Host an intern or job shadow participant in a format that works for your workflow
✔ Help students take their first steps in the profession and see what is possible
✔ Strengthen the talent pipeline by supporting a more diverse and better prepared future workforce
✔ Participate even if you already have an internship program (your current interns can help lead and host a job shadow candidate)
Firms are the heart of capX. When you participate, you open doors that students cannot access on their own and help create a profession that reflects the communities we serve.
Enroll today and make a difference in expanding access to architecture across California: one experience at a time. https://calarchfoundation.org/capx_2025/