About SDA | Society for Design Administration

65 Years of Elevating the A/E/C Industry

We're more than an association—we're the community that empowers the people behind every successful design firm.

Our Journey

1965

SDA was founded by administrative professionals who recognized the need for industry-specific support in architecture and engineering firms.

1980s

Expanded nationwide with regional chapters, creating a coast-to-coast network of operations professionals.

1990s

Launched the CDFA certification program and founded Canstruction®—our charity combating hunger through creative design competitions.

2000s

Embraced digital transformation with online education, webinars, and virtual networking.

Today

300+ active members across 12 chapters (including a strong member-at-large virtual community) continue advancing A/E/C business operations professionals nationwide.

Our Mission & Vision

"SDA provides A/E/C business operations professionals with the education, network, and leadership development to advance their career and improve their firm's bottom line."

Our Vision: SDA is at the center of A/E/C business success, equipping our members and their firms with the resources necessary to address key issues facing the profession and elevate the critical role A/E/C business professionals play in the industry.

What We Stand For

Our four core values guide everything we do

🤝

Community

Find a network of peers you can trust—people who understand your challenges and help you make the right decisions.

💼

Professional

Access industry-leading education and training to become an indispensable team member delivering best-in-class work.

⚡

Empowerment

Gain the confidence and courage to chart your career path and make a transformative impact on your firm.

💎

Valuable

As operations professionals, we touch every aspect of the business—optimizing operations every minute of the day.

65+Years of Excellence

300+Active Members

12Chapters Nationwide

100+Annual Events

Membership Types

SDA welcomes professionals at every stage of their career

Professional

For administrative or managerial personnel in A/E/C firms.

$325/year

Associate

For vendors and service providers who support the design profession.

$350/year

Student

For full-time students in related programs.

$40/year

Emeritus

For retired members in good standing.

$55/year

*Plus chapter dues

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Awards & Recognition

Celebrating excellence in our members and chapters

⭐

Star Award

Recognizes significant contributions through service and dedication to SDA.

🏆

Lifetime Achievement

Our most prestigious honor for continued contributions throughout membership.

🥇

Best in Class

Acknowledges excellence in educational programs and membership campaigns.

🎓

PPC Scholarships

Four $2,000 grants annually for EDSymposium attendance.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Gain exposure to prospective clients while supporting SDA's mission

🎉 Members Save Up to 50%!

SDA members receive exclusive discounts on all sponsorship levels

Benefits include website logo recognition, firm feature blog articles (500-750 words), SDA national dues, and event registrations—depending on tier level.

Become a Sponsor

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SDA?

SDA is a nonprofit organization for management and administrative professionals in A/E/C firms and related disciplines.

Who can join SDA?

Anyone employed as managerial or administrative personnel in the A/E/C industry—including office managers, controllers, marketing coordinators, CFOs, receptionists, and project administrators.

What is CDFO?

The Certificate in Design Firm Operations is a voluntary certification recognizing administrative and management expertise, designed to elevate professional standards in design firm management.

What is Canstruction®?

Founded by SDA, Canstruction® is a charity combining design competitions with fighting hunger. Teams create sculptures from canned foods, which are then donated to local food banks. Events are held in 100+ cities worldwide.