A. Ray Pentecost III, DrPH, FAIA, FACHA, LEED AP
Director of the Center for Health Systems & Design,
Texas A&M University College of Architecture
How does ACHA certification distinguish professionals in healthcare architecture?
According to Pentecost, ACHA certification creates a distinction between self-proclaimed experts in healthcare design and those whose work has been independently reviewed by a panel of experts in the field.
“In our industry, ACHA certification is awarded only to healthcare design professionals who have passed an exam on healthcare design issues, and whose work has been favorably reviewed by an independent panel of experts.”
Why do firms seek out candidates who are ACHA certified?
Pentecost describes ACHA certification as sending a message of commitment to design excellence and a mark of professional distinction. ACHA credentials immediately stand out and can establish a level of trust with potential candidates.
“For employers, it’s the only credential available in the marketplace that distinguishes candidates as being specialists in healthcare architecture.”
What resources does ACHA offer to certificants?
Becoming ACHA certified allows individuals to connect with thought leaders, innovators, and top professionals in healthcare design.
“The greatest resource available through ACHA is the network of individuals who are certified,” Pentecost said. “It’s a group that most of us have looked up to for most of our careers. We respect them, we know the projects that they have done, and we know the contributions they have made. Becoming ACHA certified is an invitation to join that family of design professionals.”
About Ray Pentecost
Ray Pentecost is a decorated, seasoned professional in healthcare architecture and design, having been awarded the honor in 2012 as one of only eight to be named to Healthcare Design Magazine’s “Most Influential People in Healthcare Design.” He has held leadership roles on a number of national and international organizations, including stints as President of the following: the American Institute of Architects Academy of Architecture for Health (AIA AAH), the board of regents of the American College of Healthcare Architects, and the International Academy for Design and Health. He also served as co-chairman of the AIA’s America’s Design and Health Initiative. He currently holds the Ronald L. Skaggs and Joseph G. Sprague Chair of Health Facilities Design at Texas A&M University’s College of Architecture.