AIA Hires Chief Advocacy Officer

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is excited to announce the appointment of Alexander Cochran, ESQ., as the new chief advocacy officer. Cochran joins the AIA to lead more than 96,000 architects and design professionals across 200 chapters in advocating for the needs of the economy, climate, and communities.

Cochran brings extensive experience from his previous role as Special Counsel to the Governor of New York State, leading a team of government affairs policy experts. Starting his career as an advisor to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development during the Clinton Administration, Cochran built a 25-year career in corporate and government reputation management, strategic and crisis communications, political strategy, and policy advocacy. Known for innovative thinking, he co-conceived and launched the governor-led US Climate Alliance and set the bipartisan federal agenda and strategy during the NY Governor’s chairmanship of the National Governors Association (NGA).

“I am thrilled to join AIA and its network of passionate architects and design professionals. I believe in the power of policy to drive transformative change, and I see this move as an opportunity to significantly impact the future of the built environment. Together, we will shape policy to promote vibrant, sustainable, and resilient communities, creating a better future for us all,” says Alexander Cochran, AIA chief advocacy officer.

Cochran’s appointment as chief advocacy officer is a significant step forward in AIA’s ambitious policy goals. His ability to devise strategic advocacy approaches will be instrumental in advancing AIA’s federal, state, and local advocacy outreach. His experience in representing diverse sectors and advocating for policy solutions aligns with AIA’s initiatives to promote policies that foster vibrant, sustainable, and resilient communities.

Cochran currently resides in Oakton, Va., with his wife and two sons, and is a proud Georgia Bulldog.

Visit the?AIA website?to learn more about AIA advocacy to make impactful changes in building standards, climate action, and community resilience.