Navigating the DC Economy

Ok folks its tough out there -- but the Chapter is here to help. This page of the website will help you find your way -- whether your a firm that needs to downsize or you've just lost your job.

What its looking like in the region

The headlines are actually getting a bit rosier and we are hearing about some firms being really busy. Follow this link to Dr. Stephen Fuller's website that will help you understand what's going on in your own backyard: Center for Regional Analysis at George Mason University. Dr. Fuller has many of his recent presentations housed there so you can get a good over view on what's happening.

If you've lost your job:

The first thing to do is contact Mary Fitch and get on her list. You'll be on the list to get the latest updates from employers who contact Mary directly. Also post your resume on the job board (under Careers on the left side of this page). Need tips for making that resume get you to the top of the pile? Click here. Another good resource is Architectural Record's survival guide. If you have a strategy that has helped you cope and you think might be valuable to others -- please contact us and we will post it here.

Autodesk Offers Free Training

.In order to get ahead in the workplace, you need to invest in yourself by increasing your knowledge and expanding your skills. And the good news is that Autodesk can help you get back in the game. With the Autodesk Assistance Program you can take action today to gain a competitive advantage in your field. The program offers:

• Free* Software License: Student licenses of 18 Autodesk® products including AutoCAD® software and other industry focused products supporting Building Information Modeling and Digital Prototyping technology.
• Free Online Training: On-demand training available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  (requires internet access)
• Reduced Cost Classroom Training:  Many Autodesk Authorized Value Added Resellers and Autodesk Training Center (ATC®) partners are offering classroom  training at their facilities for free or for a significantly reduced fee.  (Offerings will vary, please check with your local ATC or Reseller to get details)
• Certification: Certification preparation and exams available at discounted rates through Autodesk Authorized Certification Centers (Offerings will vary, please check with your local Certification Center to get details)

To learn more about the program and included benefits, download our Autodesk Assistance Program FAQ. 

Firms: Be as creative about this recession as you have in your practice:

It seems a simple solution to downsize through layoff, but you want to make sure you are considering the investment you have put in your people. It will likely cost you more to hire and train than if you can hold on to your folks. Consider: 1) cutting salaries by a smaller percentage across the board; rolling furloughs or other means that will help you ride out these next few months and hang onto the people you have. Think layoffs are better for morale? Think again.