CNMI’s BPL rejoins architectural registration board

WASHINGTON, D.C.—In September, the Northern Mariana Islands became the 55th member of the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, or NCARB, just as the nonprofit is gearing up to celebrate its centennial year.

The Commonwealth’s Board of Professional Licensing—which regulates the practice of architecture, engineering, land surveying, and landscape architecture—is returning to NCARB after previously being a member from 1984-2006.

NCARB’s services for licensure candidates are now available to island residents, and NCARB-certified architects can apply for a reciprocal license in the Commonwealth.

Through collaboration with licensing boards across the United States, NCARB shapes the future of architectural regulation. During the organization’s annual meetings and forums, member boards such as the Northern Mariana Islands vote on national standards, provide input on programs for licensure and reciprocity, and elect regional and national officers.

“We are delighted to welcome the Northern Mariana Islands back into NCARB’s community during our centennial celebration,” said NCARB president David L. Hoffman, FAIA, NCARB, Hon. FCARM. “One hundred years after our founding, it’s encouraging and motivating that our member boards recognize how NCARB’s programs and services support their efforts and continue to benefit the public.”

The Northern Mariana Islands board is now also a member of NCARB’s Region 6, which is composed of Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Guam, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, and Washington.

“With access to NCARB’s programs and services, the Northern Mariana Islands Board of Professional Licensing can more effectively carry out our duty to protect the health, safety, and welfare of our residents,” said board executive director Esther S. Fleming.

To learn more about earning a license to practice architecture in the U.S. visit www.ncarb.org/get-licensed.

The NCARB membership is made up of the architectural registration boards of all 50 states as well as those of the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. NCARB assists its member registration boards in carrying out their duties and provides a certification program for individual architects. (PR)