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Free Study Session

40 Minutes of Competence.

Free weekly study sessions.

Join us every Thursday for 40 Minutes of Competence. In these free Zoom study sessions, we tackle a practice problem, then answer your questions live. Whether you are just getting started, in the middle of studying, or celebrating licensure, we welcome everyone to these open-to-all study sessions.

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ARE Study Schedule

Topic of the Week

An Expert’s Process for Answering ARE Questions: CE Exam

A four-story, wood-framed multifamily residential building is nearing completion and the contractor requests a certificate of substantial completion. Following a site observation visit, the project architect prepares a punch list describing items observed that will need to be corrected. 

Which punch list items require correction before the architect can certify substantial completion? Check the three that apply.

A. Stair 5, Typ. All Levels: Missing handrails along east wall of staircase 

B. Corridor Lobby, Level 1: Replace flickering light in accent fixture 

C. Corridor, Level 3: Add missing lock on fire extinguisher cabinet 

D. Unit 123 (1 bed/1 bath): Replace toilet in bathroom (will not flush) 

E. Unit 325 (2 bed/2 bath): Missing smoke detector in bedroom 

F. Unit 424 (1 bed/1.5 bath): Missing screen at sliding balcony door

Topic of the week for Amber Book 40 minutes of competence

Hosted By:

Michael Ermann

Michael Ermann

Michael Ermann created the animated Amber Book course after teaching 50 in-person three-day ARE test prep seminars to AIA chapters around the country. He’s a full tenured professor at Virginia Tech where he teaches design studio, building systems, and materials & methods of construction. He’s won 14 awards for his research, teaching, and design work.

Christine Williamson

Christine Williamson

Christine Williamson is the founder of the Instagram account @BuildingScienceFightClub and offers architects courses on building science and construction at BuildingScienceFightClub.com.  She graduated from Princeton University and received her Master's of Architecture from New School of Architecture + Design.  

Michael Hanahan

Michael Hanahan

You likely know Michael Hanahan from his Perkins Coie (formerly Schiff Hardin) pro-practice lectures. Michael Hanahan’s architecture training and passion for the construction industry inform his law practice where he represents owners, contractors, design professionals, and consultants.

Kevin Jones

Kevin Jones

Kevin Jones teaches integrative studio and professional practice in Virginia Tech’s School of Architecture where he also serves as licensing advisor. He is the founder of With-Architecture. A member of the inaugural NCARB Professional Practice Scholars program, he has served as the local AIA chapter president, has won two design awards for his architecture, and has won three more awards for his teaching.