A Celebratory Toast

“If not now, then when?”, answered Mike Cantrell when I asked what motivated him to pursue his architectural license after working in the architectural field for over 25 years.

Mike started his career at WHA in the mailroom and made his way through apprenticeship up the ranks to become a design senior principal at WHA. Click HERE to read more of Mike’s backstory in one of our 2016 “spotlight on staff” blogs.

Recently, our office had the chance to recognize Mike’s amazing achievement – acquiring his architectural license! In a casual interview, I asked Mike three questions about his journey. 

What made you decide to get your Architectural License?

The realization that if I was going to commit to this profession 100%, it was the next logical step in the process. I felt a sense of complacency in my career to a fault; I was focused on the day-to-day but realized I was forgetting the bigger picture. This was an important personal achievement for me and my family.

What was the biggest challenge you faced?

Starting the process, the time commitment was the biggest hurdle for me. Initially, the hardest part was finding the time to reallocate and giving up certain things that weren’t as important. But after a few weeks of reallocating my time, it became the new normal. Another challenge was maintaining a determined mindset and prioritizing of all the things in my life. I have a wife, three children, three dogs, a snake, and a turtle, so you can say I am a busy guy.

Any advice for people looking to get licensed?

Don’t wait! And don’t be intimidated. Schedule your first test now, there is no reason to wait. You can and will find the time to study and prepare for the test. Being an architect is all about deadlines. And in everyday life, goals need deadlines to create commitment. You will do better and be more prepared for your job if you put the time in to reach your goal. If you fail a test, take that day to feel bad. Then start studying again the next day and reschedule another test. Look at it as a practice test and then you will be more prepared for the next one.

One big takeaway from Mike’s story is that it is never too late to accomplish your goals and pursue an architectural license. All it takes is determination, prioritization, and accountability from your support system. Congratulations again, Mike, on your noteworthy achievement!