Highlights from AIA26

From big ideas on AI and universal design to puppy breaks, AIA26 had it all.
We’re excited to share some highlights and takeaways from Kirstyn Bonneau, AIA’s experience:

• Discussing ways architects can be better prepared to respond to disasters in their communities in the workshop Kirstyn led with Jessica Orlando, AIA, DBIA, WELL AP, Suzan Elwyn, and Roxana Lopez-Truong, AIA, NCARB
• Exploring how we can expand universal design to better support behavioral health and neurodiversity at sessions with Roger Hartung, Jonathan Lusin, AIA, Mona Johnston Zellers, and Jack Chaffin.
• Learning practical, intentional ways to implement AI in architectural practice from Charlene Li
• Seeing (and touching!) an incredible range of materials in the exhibition hall
• Gaining insight into how to more effectively tell the story of our work in an awesome workshop with Dez Joslin and Katelyn Litalien
• Connecting with and learning from amazing women in the profession at the Women’s Leadership Lunch (Mathilda Bialk, Andy Robert, Mary Morris, Suzan Elwyn, Katelyn Litalien)
• Getting a little joy boost at the SYNLawn puppy park
• And of course, exploring the built environment of downtown San Diego

We are grateful for the conversations, ideas, and inspiration that Kirstyn will bring back into our practice.