The American Institute of Architects is a three-tiered professional association of architects. The “Institute,” as the national level is sometimes called, is the parent organization. In addition, there are state chapters or “components,” (AIA California Council), and local chapters.

AIA Central Valley is the local chapter of The American Institute of Architects that serves architects and the public in the 17 northern California counties of Alpine, Amador, Butte, Colusa, El Dorado, Glenn, Lassen, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sacramento, Shasta, Sierra, Sutter, Tehama, Yolo, and Yuba. The chapter has been in existence since 1942 and has grown from a group of five Charter Members to a current membership of over 500.

The purpose of the organization is to further the art and science of architecture.