From Vision to Impact.

Join us for an inspiring and insightful day exploring the business of architecture today. This dynamic program will offer perspectives across the full arc of practice — from early education to firm leadership.

Attendees will span a wide range of career stages, including architecture students, emerging designers, sole practitioners, and principals from small to large firms. This diversity creates a rich environment for dialogue, mentorship, and shared learning.

Through candid conversations, skill-building workshops, and real-world insights, you’ll connect with leaders who are building sustainable, values-driven practices and redefining the future of the profession.

Curated by the Women in Architecture committee to highlight female leadership and design excellence, this summit is open to all as we believe that advancing conversations around design, leadership, and practice benefits the entire AEC industry.

Architects, designers, engineers, and contractors of all genders and experience levels are encouraged to attend. Whether you’re seeking fresh perspectives on project management, insight into award-winning work, or opportunities to support and connect with the next generation, there is a seat for you at the table.

9:00AM – 9:20AM | Check-in & Welcome  
 
9:20AM – 10:20AM | Opening Keynote
We kick off the day with a deep-dive into design excellence to set an aspirational tone that inspires every attendee, from students and designers to sole practitioners to firm principals.
 
10:30AM – 12:00PM | Panel 1 – Perspectives on Design: Roles Across the Project
Design is a team sport. This session breaks down the silos of the building process to look at a project through multiple professional lenses, from city planners and university representatives to contractors and architects.
 
12:00PM – 1:00PM | Networking Lunch  
 
1:00PM – 2:00PM | Interactive Workshop – Advocacy & The Pipeline

Leadership requires more than technical skill; it requires the ability to advocate for your vision. In this signature interactive session, we tackle professional development through the lens of the “First Five Years.”

 
2:10PM – 3:40PM | Panel 2 – Stories of Design: Inspiring Projects Across All Scales
From the intimate detail of a small-firm intervention to the complexity of a massive institutional master plan, every scale offers a unique leadership lesson.

AIA CT/Allied Member – $150.00
Guest Invited by the Member: $150
Assoc. AIA CT – $75.00
Student Ticket – Free (limited seats available/registration required)
Non-Member – $300.00

Sponsorships can be purchased through our registration page

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain invaluable insights, develop crucial skills, and connect with a powerful network of fellows shaping the business of architecture. Register today and be part of the conversation!

Inspiration Sponsor

Empowerment Sponsors

Supporting Organizations

FRIDAY, MAY 8TH
9:00AM – 4:00PM

ANTHONY’S OCEAN VIEW
450 Lighthouse Rd
New Haven, CT
Sponsor by April 30, 2026
Register by May 4, 2026

Disclaimer:
Please note that AIA Connecticut has an In-Person Visitor and Event Attendance Policy that you should review prior to the event.

Please notify the AIA Connecticut Staff Events Team of any cancellation or substitution. Refunds are only available two weeks prior to the event (April 24, 2026). Any cancellations after April 24 will not be given a refund. Team member substitution will only be allowed up until May 5, 2026.

AIA Connecticut reserves the right to amend, modify, or otherwise revise the Refund/Cancellation and the Disclaimer policy in accordance with applicable federal or state guidelines.