The role of architects has evolved, expanding what it means to be an architect, the ways we can contribute to our communities, and the voices and perspectives our profession must represent. Our conference is a celebration of the future of the profession with sessions designed to encourage this growth, increase our impact and facilitate change.

8:30-9:30 a.m.
Opening Keynote
Jonathan Garnett
Celebrating diverse voices: Jonathan will provide insight through his personal and professional experience, focusing on his unique cultural, geographic and professional experience. He will also work with U of U students after the session.

9:30-10:15 a.m.
Registration and Snacks

10:15-11:15 a.m.
“A Diversity of Roles for AI in Architectural Practice”
Randy Deutsch
Embracing changing practice: Randy will discuss how AI can be leveraged to enhance our design and practice, including the ethics of its use and how it can impact architects at any stage in their careers.

11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
“Architects and Advocacy”
Shawn Benjamin, AIA Utah Government Affairs Committee Chair
Steve Hiatt, AIA Utah Lobbyist
Increasing impact: This panel will describe how architects can engage with government personally and as members of AIA Utah to be heard, provide insight and expertise, and balance personal and professional goals. 

12:15-1:15 p.m.
Lunch and AIA Utah Annual Meeting

1:15-1:30 p.m.
Break

1:30-2:30 p.m.
“Architect by Day, Community Force by Night” Panel Discussion
Moderator: Libby Haslam, Associate Professor for the University of Utah
Panel: Jason Wheeler, Executive Director at ASSIST Inc. Community Design Center 
Soonju Kwon, Artist for Soonju Kwon Art Studio
Darin Mano, Salt Lake City Council Member, District 5, 
Sophia Malik, Founder of Malik Office of Architecture and Development
Expanding definitions: In the changing world, stepping outside of the definition of what an architect is can benefit your practice and increase your passion. This panel engages professional architects that have taken a step beyond their daily practice into the realms of advocacy, art, education, politics and development in a conversation about the challenges and opportunities they have found just beyond the horizon. 

2:30-3:30 p.m.
“The Architect’s Role in Affordable, Attainable Housing” Panel Discussion
Craig Elliott, AIA Utah Affordable Housing Task Force Chair
Jeff Pastva, FAIA, CPHC
Laura Hanson, Senior Advisor for Long-Range Planning Utah Governor’s Office
Moira Dillow, Analyst, Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute
Rethinking limitations: This panel will explore how architects can support the creation of affordable attainable housing through code, zoning, land use and financial advocacy and knowledge to help support creative problem solving around this complex issue.

3:30-4:00 p.m.
Break

4:00-5:00 p.m.
Closing Keynote: “Design for Meaning: Breaking the Bonds of Physicality”
Wendy Evans Joseph
Evolving career path: Wendy will discuss the varied and progressive nature of her career path and how that journey benefited her life and work.

Architecture Awards

5:00-6:00 p.m.
Architecture Awards Reception

6:00-7:30 p.m.
AIA Utah Architecture Awards

Register today for the AIA Utah Conference!