The Spring 2026 issue of the Licensing News from the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners (TBAE) highlights the exceptional achievement of Amanda Kalescky, who completed the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) in just five days. The publication shares her journey to inspire other emerging professionals and encourage firm leaders to foster workplace cultures that actively support licensure.
Kalescky credited her success to the strong support system provided by GFF Design, which encourages licensure through firmwide resources such as access to the Amber Book, reimbursement for exam fees, and paid time off for testing. Her strategy involved rigorous preparation, including a disciplined reading plan and meticulous scheduling of study time on her calendar. Kalescky’s experience serves as a powerful testament to the impact of mentorship and firm-sponsored professional development on the growth and resilience of the architecture profession.