What is the history of the Architect of the Capitol?
The Architect of the Capitol (AOC) is the federal agency responsible for the maintenance, operation, development, and preservation of the United States Capitol Complex, which includes the Capitol, the Senate and House Office Buildings, the Capitol Visitor Center, and the Capitol Grounds. The position of Architect of the Capitol was established by the U.S. Congress in 1852, making it one of the oldest federal agencies in the United States. The first Architect of the Capitol was Thomas U. Walter, who was appointed by President Millard Fillmore in 1851. Walter was responsible for overseeing the construction of the new Capitol Dome, which was completed in 1865. While Walter was in charge, several other projects were completed, including the construction of the Senate and House Office Buildings, the extension of the north and south wings of the Capitol, and the creation of the Capitol Grounds. Walter served as Architect of the Capitol for nearly 40 years, the longest tenure of any Architect in history. He was followed by Edward Clark, who served from 1891 to 1897. Under Clark’s direction, several of the existing buildings on the Capitol Grounds were renovated and expanded. In 1899, William Thornton became the third Architect of the Capitol. During his tenure, he oversaw the renovation of the Capitol Dome and the construction of the Library of Congress. Theodore W. Link was appointed Architect of the Capitol in 1911. During his tenure, he oversaw the construction of the Supreme Court Building, the Russell Senate Office Building, the Dirksen Senate Office Building, and the Cannon House Office Building. In 1972, J. George Stewart became the sixth Architect of the Capitol. During his tenure, he oversaw the construction of the Capitol Visitor Center, the Hart Senate Office Building, and the Thurgood Marshall Federal Judiciary Building. In 2014, Stephen T. Ayers became the seventh Architect of the Capitol, serving until 2021. During his tenure, he oversaw the construction of the Capitol Power Plant, the renovation of the Cannon House Office Building, and the construction of the Capitol Visitor Center expansion.
Other Questions about Architect of the Capitol
- Does the Architect of the Capitol offer flexible work arrangements?
Yes, the Architect of the Capitol offers flexible work arrangements, such as telework, compressed work schedules, and part-time work.
- Does the Architect of the Capitol offer any employee discounts?
No, the Architect of the Capitol does not offer any employee discounts.
- What safety procedures are in place for employees of the Architect of the Capitol?
1. All employees must wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, safety glasses, and gloves when working on Capitol grounds. 2. All employees must be trained in proper equipment operation and safety procedures before being allowed to work. 3. All employees must adhere to posted safety signs and warnings. 4. All employees must be aware of and follow all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations. 5. All employees must report any injuries or hazardous conditions to their supervisor immediately. 6. All employees must be aware of and abide by the Capitol’s emergency plans and procedures. 7. All employees must attend safety briefings and training sessions as required. 8. All employees must complete required safety training prior to beginning work. 9. All employees must be aware of and adhere to the Capitol’s security policies and procedures. 10. All employees must be familiar with and use proper lifting techniques when moving materials.
- Does the Architect of the Capitol provide any educational assistance?
Yes, the Architect of the Capitol offers a variety of educational programs and resources to help visitors learn more about the history of the Capitol and its role in American government. These resources include guided tours, online exhibitions, and educational videos and materials.
- Is relocation assistance available for employees of the Architect of the Capitol?
Relocation assistance is available for certain employees of the Architect of the Capitol (AOC), as determined by the AOC. Employees may be eligible for assistance with costs related to relocation, including reimbursement of moving expenses, temporary housing, and other related costs. Employees should contact their Human Resources Office for more information about specific relocation assistance eligibility and policies.
- Are there any special qualifications required to work for the Architect of the Capitol?
Yes. Depending on the position, the Architect of the Capitol may require candidates to possess certain qualifications, such as a valid driver's license, a degree in architecture or engineering, or experience in a related field. Additionally, the Architect of the Capitol may require other security clearances or specialized qualifications related to the specific position.