Join us for an insightful webinar session as we delve into the most common and expensive disaster in the US: flooding. Architects have a critical role to play in preparing communities for the increasing occurrence of floods. During this session, participants will discover innovative approaches and best practices that architects can employ to safeguard structures and minimize the devastating effects of floods. This session will examine the different kinds of flooding that occur, comparing the challenges faced by coastal regions to those experienced in the middle of the country. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the unique factors that contribute to each type of flooding and the implications they have on structures and communities. Additionally, we will explore the crucial topic of insurance in flood-prone areas. Gain insights into the insurance options available and how they can provide financial protection and aid in the recovery process. To bring these concepts to life, we will showcase compelling case studies that highlight successful initiatives in flood resilience and preparedness. Gain inspiration from real-world examples and learn from the experiences of communities that have effectively tackled the challenges posed by floods. Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your knowledge and contribute to the creation of more resilient communities in the face of flooding.  To explore more resources on how to helping communities before and after disasters, visit aia.org/disaster. This session was recorded live on September 7, 2023.

Architects are challenged to create inclusive teams, but often, client requirements for schedule and a team’s history together, portfolio, and longevity cause architects to select teams based on the “safe bet.” And both architects and clients look to educators to generate a pipeline of diverse young designers. What are the responsibilities of each party (client, architect, and educator) to create high-performing and representative teams? Join this panel for an insightful discussion on addressing the challenge of meaningful inclusion in the design/construction industry. Course expires 6/4/2026

Restrooms, bathing rooms, dressing and locker rooms are found in civic, commercial, educational, institutional, and recreational buildings. Quality design of these spaces takes experience and awareness of common pitfalls. Learn best practices to common issues that occur throughout various project types. Course expires 1/6/2025

Accessible design is inherently challenging because it’s not a "settled science." Standards are constantly evolving—sometimes even in conflict with one another. This course will cut through the confusion. Our discussion/exploration will: Review compliance missteps and achievements in real-world scenarios Identify phases of the design process where various concerns are best addressed Help you create a clear plan for accessibility success Address questions, comments, and concerns from members like you Hear from accessibility experts and learn from the experiences of your peers in this clarifying course. Course expires on 4/19/2026.

Led by an experienced Disaster Mitigation, Resilience, and Hazards consultant, this course begins with a review of high wind hazards pertaining to the State of Illinois, but is applicable to most midwestern states. Get an overview of how wind forces act upon a structure and the various codes and standards that regulate wind design. Review case studies of how severe wind events have damaged existing structures. Finally, get an introduction to the AIA Disaster Assistance Program and how architects can become involved in assisting their communities post-disaster.  This course is presented in partnership with AIA Illinois.

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 tells stories from across the United States which address questions such as: How do you finance and retrofit real energy improvement projects with energy and environmental justice in mind? Do practices need to change for architects implementing work in cities with building energy performance standards? How do policies in more progressive cities in turn influence other US cities? What are progressive cities like Seattle doing to jumpstart zero-carbon goals and how are architects engaging in this work? Course expires 01/12/2025

This session 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. Course expires 03/05/2025

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.