For decades, women have been significantly underrepresented in leadership, with only 16% of AEC firms employing women in c-suite level positions. For women of color, leadership opportunities are even more elusive. To advance more women into leadership roles we need to think differently about ways to create more opportunity for ourselves and for women to succeed. We must take the lead in building our own careers and dare to launch programs and initiatives that drive impactful change in society.    This session brings together women who are making an impact in their companies and communities. From founding programs that radically rethink partnerships with minority and women-owned businesses to connecting the design community to improve maternal health outcomes for Black mothers to initiatives that have the possibility to transform how leaders in cities collaborate, they are mobilizing, learning from one another and building on each other's ideas in new ways. This session will reveal strategies and a framework to help shape (and reshape) your leadership journey to gain exposure, advance your career through connections, and inspire new ideas for your future.

Women in architecture, design, and the allied building industries are one of the most influential segments in the profession. Yet when looking at leadership roles in these industries, we still ask: Where are they?  Women’s Leadership Summit, founded by AIA, is a premier event that brings together the industry’s largest network of diverse women in architecture, design, and the allied building industries. It exists to support and empower women on their leadership journeys and break down the barriers that get in their way.  Focused on networking, leadership training, business development, gender equity, and personal empowerment, WLS helps women manifest the careers they want while making a difference in the world.   •    Share pathbreaking ideas to tackle challenges, uncover potential, and lead change. •    Celebrate women leaders at every career stage, empowering everyone to change the future.  

This session from The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon® Building Science Education series, is on zero energy buildings introduces their foundational terminology, concepts, and strategies. Topics covered include defining zero energy, understanding site energy vs. source energy, the cost of zero energy buildings, setting goals, historically informed architecture, and passive design strategies. The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon® Building Science Education series is designed to educate students and working professionals on building science principles that are paramount to the successful design of high-performance, energy-efficient buildings. AIAU offers architects and design professionals courses that aim to educate on: Brought to you in partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon.

Achieving zero-net energy (ZNE) requires full buy-in from the entire design team. This course offers insights from an experienced team—developer, architect, mechanical engineer—who use the integrative design process and continual energy analytics to maximize efficiency, leverage design opportunities, and contain costs. ZNE on paper doesn't cut it. Don't miss this chance to gain a valuable understanding of how to approach ZNE within the context of cost-constrained affordable housing—and learn the skills you need to truly deliver for your clients and the users of your buildings. Course expires on 4/10/2026.