The origins of CIAT began following a report by the RIBA calling for the establishment of ‘an institute for technicians’. Consequently, on 12 February 1965, the Society of Architectural and Associated Technicians (SAAT) was founded, representing and qualifying technicians within construction. In its first year, 1,799 technicians joined the Society.

Recognition of the new Society along with increasing its membership were pivotal issues during the early decades, and SAAT successfully embedded itself as a lead body within the construction industry.

It was on 1 May 1986, that SAAT’s name changed to British Institute of Architectural Technicians (BIAT), to reflect the specialisms of Architectural Technicians, and in 1994 the title of the Institute changed to British Institute of Architectural Technologists, to recognise the development educationally and in practice of the professionally qualified Architectural Technologist. In 2002 the Institute introduced a new technician grade to recognise the professionally qualified Architectural Technician.

The Institute was recognised by incorporation by Royal Charter in July 2005. Full Members became Chartered Architectural Technologists, MCIAT — a protected title.

Approaching its 50th year in 2015, CIAT continues to build on its solid platform to develop the Architectural Technology discipline as the international qualifying body.

For a full history of the Institute, a book commemorating the Institute's 40th anniversary is available from CIAT, for further information please contact Adam Endacott, Public Relations Director.