Christopher Pumford is a Manager of International Affairs at the American Institute of Architects. Prior to coming to AIA, Christopher was a Presidential Management Fellow at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and a Fulbright lecturer in Rabat, Morocco. Christopher obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at the University of Michigan and a Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy at the Tufts University Fletcher School.
Courses
The Architect’s Role in Advancing Sustainable Urbanization Worldwide
Wednesday, April 15, 2026 | 12-1pm ET
As cities across the globe face mounting pressures from rapid population growth, climate change, and resource scarcity, architects are uniquely positioned to lead the charge toward sustainable urbanization. This course examines how design professionals can go beyond traditional building design to shape resilient, inclusive, and ecologically sound urban environments. With a panel of experts sharing experience in master planning projects across Europe, Sub-Saharan Africa, and the Middle East, the session will highlight how architects can serve as strategic partners in master planning, infrastructure integration, and cross-sector collaboration. Through real-world project insights, participants will gain a practical understanding of how to advocate for sustainable outcomes at both building and urban scales in vastly different cultural, climatic, and regulatory contexts.
COP30: The Paris Agreement After 10 Years
Thursday, June 25, 2026 | 2-2:30pm ET
The 2025 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) marked the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement and a critical shift from global dialogue toward concrete climate action. COP30 represents a moment of progress where the world is moving from talk to action, but also of significant political setbacks. This program explores the key components of the Belem Political Package while addressing significant challenges, such as the impacts of countries failing to submit their Nationally Determined Contributions. It further highlights how initiatives like the Buildings Breakthrough Agenda are driving essential policy and market changes for those in the built environment. Ultimately, the session is designed to provide vital insights for architects interested in advancing decarbonization, resilience, and international policy.