About AEI

What is the AEI?

AEI is the home for all professionals in the building industry.  The Architectural Engineering Institute was created through a merger of the National Society of Architectural Engineers (NSAE) and the American Society of Civil Engineers Architectural Engineering Division (AED) in October 1, 1998.  AEI strives to be the premier organization providing a multi-disciplinary forum for the building industry professionals to examine technical, educational, scientific and professional issues of common interest.

What is the relationship among AEI, NSAE, and AED?

Upon the October 1^st, 1998 startup of the AEI, the AED ceased to exist.  NSAE ended operations at the close of its fiscal year, 12/31/98, at which time AEI became the sole professional society for architectural engineering.  AEI is a largely autonomous organization operating under the auspices of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE).  AEI reveives membership services and publications support from ASCE, but the AEI Board of Governors has control of the direction of the Institute.  The Board of Governors is made up of equal representation of former AED and NSAE leaders.

Have NSAE and AED programs continued?

Absolutely!  NSAE has developed a reputation as the industry leader in educational activities and professional development.  AEI has continued that tradition by retaining NSAE's student chapters and the rights to continue developing the P.E. exam for architectural engineers.  AED has always been strong on technical issues.  AEI continues to publish the acclaimed Journal of Architectural Engineering and provides forums for discussions across the entire gamut of technical issues within the building industry.

What do I get with my Membership?

Benefits will depend on your member status and how you join.  All members will receive a quarterly newsletter, discounts on AEI products and continuing education, and have the opportunity to become active on committees that will shape the future of the industry.  Members (except students) who belong to the Institute but not ASCE will receive the quarterly Journal of Architectural Engineering.  ASCE Members who choose to join the Institute can add the JAE to their benefits package for a nominal fee of about $30 and students recieve a complimentary membership while in school. Industry Members and Affiliate Industry Members will have the opportunity to have a link to the AEI website and a small business-card advertisement in the newsletter included in their membership.

How much is it going to cost?

NSAE members can join for the discounted rate of $75.  Typical member price will be $140.  ASCE members can include the AEI as part of their membership package at no charge (JAE supplement costs $30).  We also offer discounts for younger (Associate) Members on a sliding scale to avoid a rude awakening after college.  Students receive a complimentary membership while in school, and for $30 they can begin receiving the JAE. Industry Member rates are $500 which includes advertising as described above.

What happens to NSAE Student Chapters?

The AEI continues to serve the student chapters as NSAE had previously. It is intended that the student conferences and participation will continue as always with only a name change from NSAE to AEI.  New student programs are being developed. And new chapters will be encouraged.

I was an NSAE member in school, but dropped out.  Why should I rejoin?

The AEI is a very exciting place to be!  The Architectural Engineering Exam has recently been approved for a Spring 2003 offering. You have the opportunity to be involved in developing your professional exam.  Additionally, with the merger you will now receive the Journal of Architectural Engineering with your membership.  This peer-reviewed journal offers state-of-the-art articles on Architectural Engineering topics.  Also, the AEI offers technical committees that you can join to help advance the practice.  As the AEI grows, we will offer continuing education, seminars, and publications to help you in your career.

How do I join?

Please contact Patricia S. Brown, P.E. at (202) 789-2200 or via email at pbrown@aeinstitute.org for more information. Click here for membership application.