Following up on the successful model in Italy, Vitoria Stone Fair/Marmomacc Latin America will offer the first natural stone design continuing education course -- Marmomacc Stone Academy -- for architects in Brazil officially recognized by the American Institute of Architects (AIA).

"Designing with Natural Stone Brazil 2014" will be offered in Vitoria from February 18 to February 21, and it will provide 15.5 AIA- approved credits. Participants, including architects from the U.S., Canada and Brazil, will learn about stone sourcing, new technologies and surface finishing. They will also visit a nearby granite quarry and processing plant and be given a guided tour of the fair. 

Scholarships will be granted to eligible architects and will cover -- in addition to the three days of education -- three hotel nights, meals and other local expenses during the course. Participants would be responsible for their own travel to and from the hotel in Vitoria, a $250 registration fee and for obtaining a Brazilian visa to attend the program. 

Capacity is limited. Those interested should fax or e-mail their curriculum vitae and a cover letter specifying why they wish to take part in the course to:  Larissa Presniakov, The Consultants International Group: 1616 H Street NW, Washington, DC 20006, fax: (202) 393-4655, e-mail: info@cig-dc.com. The deadline for submitting applications is December 15.