Scott MacTavish - Becoming an Architect, Surely there are easier ways to make money?
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Scott MacTavish - Becoming an Architect, Surely there are easier ways to make money?

Summary

Stephen Drew speaks with Scott MacTavish about becoming an architect, leaving practice for architectural recruitment, the money question, portfolios, interviews, employer expectations and the realities of the profession across different markets.

Becoming an architect is a serious commitment. The training route is long, the expectations are high and the money question is fair to ask before you commit your whole life to the profession.

Stephen Drew speaks with Scott MacTavish about becoming an architect, leaving practice for architectural recruitment, the money question, portfolios, interviews, employer expectations and the realities of the profession across different markets.

The conversation covers:

  • Scott MacTavish's route from practice into architectural recruitment
  • Why the money question matters when choosing architecture
  • What employers look for in candidates
  • How portfolios and interviews are judged by recruiters and practices
  • How career moves can differ across London, Australia and New York

Read the episode on Architecture Social: Becoming an Architect with Scott MacTavish

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Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Scott MacTavish
  • 04:00 Moving from practice into recruitment
  • 10:00 Training, early practice experience and the money question
  • 17:00 What architectural recruiters see in candidates
  • 24:00 Portfolio, interviews and employer expectations
  • 31:00 London, Australia and New York career moves
  • 38:00 Differences between UK, US and international markets
  • 46:00 The underbelly of recruitment and practice
  • 54:00 Advice for people considering architecture
  • 59:00 Final reflections on career choices

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Architecture Social

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Creators and Guests

Stephen Drew
Host
Stephen Drew
Hello! I’m Stephen Drew, Founder of the Architecture Social—an online community and resource hub dedicated to helping professionals in Architecture, Design, Development, and Real Estate advance their careers. I’m here to connect you with insights, tools, and opportunities that lead to meaningful growth, whether you’re just starting out or ready to take that next big step.