Join us as we dive into James Wesala’s inspiring journey from childhood dreams to achieving success as an architect. Explore the passion, challenges, and victories that have shaped his career, from teaching at Arizona’s State School of Design to his active involvement in industry organizations like the AIA, and hosting the podcast, Tracing Architecture. Gain valuable insights into the architecture industry, its past, present challenges, and future directions. Don’t miss this captivating story of turning dreams into reality!
About James Wesala
James is a Senior Associate at Richärd | Kennedy Architects and works on international projects overseas and projects throughout the Southwest. James is a licensed Architect in Arizona, California, New Mexico, and Texas, and has a broad range of typological experience focused on Government, Civic/Public, K-12, and Higher Education projects. His service to the community is exemplified in projects that engage and enrich local communities, uplifting and shaping spaces for people to interact and grow. James earned his Bachelor of Science and Design in Architectural Studies and Master of Architecture at Arizona State University, where he currently is an educator in the Design School, teaching students of several levels in multiple disciplines. His teaching experience includes lecture courses and design studios at undergraduate and graduate levels. James’ extracurricular activities include co-hosting/co-producing the “Tracing Architecture” podcast (co-founder). James currently serves the AIA on the Phoenix Metro Chapter’s Board as AIA10 Director (2024-2025) and previously on AIA Arizona’s Board as AIA10 Director (2020-2021). He also serves the profession in other organizations, such as NOMA Arizona and NCARB. Finally, James serves nationally with the National Architectural Accreditation Board participating in accreditation site visits and on the inaugural NAAB Accreditation Review Committee.
James Wesala LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesala/
James Wesala Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/designed.by.james_architecture
Tracing Architecture Podcast – https://tracingarchitecture.org
RICHÄRD KENNEDY ARCHITECTS – https://www.rkarch.com/
Arizona State School of Design – https://design.asu.edu/