SDA MEMBERSHIP

Advance Your Career

As an A/E/C administrative professional, there is no better way to invest in your professional development than with membership in SDA.

Gain the resources and support to take your career to the next level with SDA. Our members represent a national network of business professionals who are advancing administrative best practices in architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, construction, and their related fields. We are business operations experts known for rising through the ranks at our firms, where we make an impact by optimizing processes and supporting the kind of positive workplace culture that attracts both clients and prospective employees.

With the support of SDA and access to our training, education and robust national network of chapters and online forums, you’ll become known as a go-to professional who can grow your skills and add value to your firm.

SDA Features:

- - Online professional discussion forums
  - Publications with relevant and timely content
  - Webinars on industry-relevant topics
  - Leadership opportunities
  - Certification Program
  - Membership Directory Access for Local and National Networking
  - Discounts on products through established affinity programs
  - And more…

SDA provides networking and education around six Focus Areas:

- - Finance
  - Human Resources
  - Leadership
  - Marketing
  - Office Administration
  - Project Management

Whether you are the receptionist or the office manager at your office, there are always new things to learn. SDA provides all levels of administrative staff with new perspectives and productive methods of performing their duties. This knowledge not only increases self-confidence, it benefits company production, profitability, and employee awareness.

CELEBRATING 60 YEARS!

For more information contact:

Evan Erickson, Recording Secretary
Marsha Bastian, Corresponding Secretary

Membership Perks

SDA Job Bank

The SoCal Chapter has a job bank available to members at no cost and low cost to non members. Utilize the chapter network when relocating as well.

SDA Certification

The National Certification Program provides further career direction and a recognition of achievement. In an industry that values certifications, the CDFA program can help you build your personal brand as an expert in design firm administration and management.

Networking

Trade ideas, discuss challenges, exchange information and increase professional contacts through Conventions, Chapter Meetings/Seminars/Workshops, Chapter Newsletters, SDA List Serve, and PEG’s.

Regional Conference

Regional conferences give SDA members an opportunity to network with the Executive Committee, enhance leadership skills and professional development, and network with members in their geographic area.

SDA Publications

Read up on trends, best practices and relevant issues impacting the management of design firms. SDA membership includes access to our national and local publications including: SDA Handbook, SDA National Web Site, SDA Chapter Web Sites, SDA Chapter Newsletters, and the SDA Resource Center.

SDA Forum

SDA has several Forums including Member, Chapter, BOD and Principals, to name a few. The Forums are our primary source for member-to-member communication. From here you can dip into the pool of knowledge of other SDA members by posting queries, offering advice, and sharing best practices in your related discipline.

Annual Convention & Leadership Conference

The SDA National Convention is informative, educational, and memorable. It offers seminars, challenging speakers, social events, exhibits, and a forum for the exchange of ideas. The Leadership days are specifically designed to enhance leadership skills, professional development and networking for SDA members.

Local Chapters

Local chapter meetings provide professional programs and opportunities to expand your leadership abilities as you work with members on local, regional, and national activities. SDA has chapters throughout the United States and Canada. The first chapter was chartered in 1961 and established an affiliation with the AIA in 1980 to reinforce objectives which are consistent with the goal of improving the design professional.

Volunteerism & Leadership

Through our committees and national charity foundation Canstruction®, you have the opportunity to get involved, meet new and exciting people, and develop essential leadership skills. SDA encourages its members to participate in philanthropic projects related to the design industry.