AIA Florida

Home | Log-In | Search | Contact Us

Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube LinkedIn

A Chapter of the American Institute of Architects

Looking for an architect? Are you an architect? Are you a student?

 
Upcoming Events   Contract Documents
 
Florida People's Choice   2025 Convention & Trade Show
 

Classes and Schedule


Wednesday, July 30, 2025
1 - 4 p.m.­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­
Annual Meeting
Participate in AIA Florida's Annual Meeting to engage with leadership candidates' speeches, join the tradition of the FAPAC parade of checks, and stay informed about volunteer committee activities. Gain valuable insights into the future of the architecture industry during this informative and dynamic event.
Sponsored by
­
Fee: Complimentary
5 - 7:30 p.m.
Happy Hour
EMPAD Architecture +Design­(Ybor City Location)
Join the AIA Florida IDEA Advisory Council for a social gathering where you’ll have the opportunity to connect with members of the AIA Florida IDEA Advisory Council, AIA National EQFA, and NOMA Florida. Together, we'll engage in conversations about advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the architecture and design professions.

Register to attend Happy Hour.

Complimentary but you must be registered to attend.

Thursday, July 31, 2025
8:15 -
10 a.m.
Session A: Kickoff: Revolution is an Inside Job: How to Think and Act Like an Internal Entrepreneur
­
1 LU­
­
­This session explores intrapreneurship­ and innovation within architectural­ firms. Drawing from "Jugaad Innovation,"­ Dr. Ahuja shares practical strategies­ to enhance creativity, efficiency, and­ competitiveness by leveraging resources,­ minimizing risk, and fostering a culture­ of innovation that aligns with business­ strategy.­
Speaker:
Dr. Simone Ahuja
founder, Blood Orange­
­
Fee: Complimentary
10 a.m.-1 p.m.
TOUR: Amalie Arena - Behind the Scenes and­ Cigar City Brewing
­
CE Credit: 1.5 HSW
­
Tour Amalie Arena, home of the Tampa­ Bay Lightning, and explore its innovative ­architecture, including a hurricane resistant roof and LEED Gold-certified­ features. Discover unique design elements ­like Tesla coils and a digital pipe organ. ­Afterward, enjoy light snacks and drinks­ at Cigar City Brewing Taproom, known for ­its award-winning, Tampa-inspired craft­ beers.
­
Read full description ­HERE.
Fee.$60
10-11:45 a.m.
Kids Workshops - Morning Session
­
Introduction to Architecture
­
This workshop will introduce students to architecture in an interactive and fun manner that sets the stage to understanding the importance of the built environment and the professionals that design it. The workshop explains who are the people that design our communities and how to become one of these professionals. A basic paper folding model-building technique will be practiced during this session to create excitement for the afternoon session.
­
View more information HERE.
Presented by:
AIM/BAM
­
Fee: Complimentary
Lunch on your own.
­
Parent/Guardian must be present.
10:15 -
11:15 a.m.
­
Session B: Keynote: Building Brains: The ­Impact of Design on the Human Brain, ­and Vice Versa
­
1 HSW
­
Dr. Upali Nanda examines how ­design influences cognitive function,­ emotions, and well-being. She will share­ neuroscience-backed insights on how­ architecture can evoke awe, reduce ­stress, and improve health outcomes, emphasizing the importance of continued ­research in designing spaces that­ enhance human and planetary well-being.
Speaker:
Dr. Upali Nanda, Assoc. AIA, EDAC,­
ACHE,
partner and executive vice president,­ HKS, Inc.
­
Fee: Complimentary
10:15 a.m.-
12:45 p.m.
TOUR: Tampa Urban River Boat Tour
­
CE Credit: 1 HSW
­
Cruise the Hillsborough River aboard ­the Pirate Taxi while urban designer­ Josh Frank and architect Ross Tisdale­ highlight Tampa’s downtown evolution, ­waterfront revitalization, and key­ architectural landmarks. Gain insights into­ planning, sustainability, and design trends ­from a unique waterfront perspective,­ showcasing the city's past, present, and ­future.
­
Read full description ­HERE.
Fee: $45
11:30 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.
Session C: Optional Lunch Session –­Designing for Metal Walls and Roofs
­
1 HSW
­
Explore key considerations for selecting ­metal wall panels and roof profiles. Learn­ about performance criteria, structural­ components, flashing details, and­ how substrates and finishes impact­ energy efficiency. Get expert guidance ­into profile selection and its role in ­architectural design.
Speaker:
Royal Casey CSI
Florida sales and­
technical manager, PAC-Clad
­
Fee: $59
11:30 a.m.-
12:45 p.m.
Session D: Optional Lunch Session – Continuous Design Uses for Large ­Opening Glass Wall Systems
­
1 HSW

Discover the benefits of large movable ­glass wall systems in design. This session­ covers their impact on functionality,­ safety, and occupant well-being, while­ showcasing innovative projects that ­highlight their versatility in modern­ architecture.­
Speaker:
Bethany Ollison
architectural sales­ coordinator, Euro-Wall, LLC
­
Fee: $59
­
11:30 a.m.- 12:45 p.m.
AIA Honor Award Guidance and ­Fellowship Application Review - Drop-By Session
­
Whether you're exploring the Associates­ Award, the Young Architect Award, or ­pursuing Fellowship, take advantage of­ personalized guidance and feedback­ from AIA members who have successfully­ navigated the process.­ Drop by ­to meet with a volunteer who is ready to share their experiences.
Fee: Complimentary
­1-5 p.m.
Architectural Photography Workshop
­
4 LU
­
Learn to create visually compelling­ architectural photographs through this ­hands-on workshop. Topics include­ composition, camera operation, digital ­techniques, timing, shadows, and night­ photography. Explore the fundamentals­ of capturing interiors, landscapes, and­ black-and-white imagery.
Speaker:
Steven Brooke
Fellow, American­ Academy in Rome
adjunct professor, UM – School of Architecture, Steven Brooke­ Studios, Inc.
­
Fee:­ $65
1-2:30 p.m.
Session E: Fresh Perspectives on­ Community, Climate and Technology
­
1.5 HSW
­
A panel of young architects explores ­community-focused design, climate ­resilience, and emerging technologies. ­Learn how architecture fosters equity, sustainability, and innovation while­ integrating new materials, systems, and ­digital tools to enhance efficiency and­ adaptability.­
Speakers:
Arlenne Gil, AIA, NOMA, NCARB
Amanda Barton, AIA,­RID, NOMA, LEED AP, WELL AP, LFA
Gabriella Bermea,­AIA, NOMA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C, WELL­ AP
Mel Ngami, AIA, NOMA
­
Fee: Complimentary
1-2:30 p.m.
Session F: Water Street and the ­Evolution of Urban Development in­ Tampa
­
1.5 HSW
­
Explore Water Street Tampa, one of the ­nation’s largest urban redevelopment­ projects. Learn how collaborative­ design, planning, and engagement with­ local stakeholders have transformed­ and reconnected downtown Tampa,­ positioning it as a model for urban­ renewal.­
Speaker:
Brad Cooke
executive vice ­president, Strategic Property Partners, Inc.
­
Fee: Complimentary

1:30-3:30 p.m.

Kids Workshops - Afternoon Session
­
Hands-On Community Model Building
­
The group will build a model of a community, based on the lessons from the previous session. The final product will be on exhibition for the remainder of the convention.
­
View more information ­­HERE.
Presented by:
AIM/BAM
­
Fee: Complimentary
­
Parent/Guardian must be present.
2:45-3:45 p.m.
Session G: Designing for Identity
­
1 HSW
­
Discover how cultural competence in design fosters inclusive, welcoming spaces. Learn strategies to reduce bias, support diverse communities, and enhance psychological well-being through architecture that reflects and respects various identities.­
Speaker:
Jessica Bantom
principal, DLR­
Group
­
Fee: Complilmentary
2:45-3:45 p.m.
Session H: How to Do What You Said ­You Would Do: Being Accountable to­ Yourself and Others, with Less Stress
­
1 LU
­
Boost productivity, improve­ accountability, and manage tasks ­effectively with quick, actionable ­strategies. Learn systems to prioritize,­ track, and complete work efficiently while ­reducing stress. Gain tools to enhance ­collaboration and prevent tasks from­ slipping through the cracks.
­Speaker:
Diana Bloom
accountability­ consultant, Totally Accountable
­
Fee: Complimentary
4-5:30 p.m.
Session I: Keynote – Is It Hot in Here?­­
­
1 HSW
­
This presentation focuses on projects that demonstrate a range of approaches to sustainable design. From basic passive design strategies to highly technical, monitored systems, the works shown embody targeted energy performance goals as well as comfort and wellbeing for human life, flora, and fauna as a highly prioritized outcome.
Speaker:
Elaine Molinar
managing partner,­ Snøhetta
­
Fee: Complimentary
­4-5:30 p.m.
Sumi-e and Sake Social Hour

In this sumi-e zen brush painting­ workshop, discover why less is more. ­Learn basic strokes, zen philosophy,­ and timeless techniques while exploring­ your feelings and experiences. Enjoy a­ sake tasting and take home your own ­zen masterpiece, along with a brush and­ sumi-e ink. The fee includes all materials ­and fun! Space is limited.

­Instructor/Host:
Don Yoshino, FAIA
­
Fee: $60­
5:30-7 p.m.
President's Welcome Reception
The traditional kick-off social event of the convention will be hosted by 2025 President Elizabeth Camargo, AIA.­ Plan to join friends and colleagues at the reception as Camargo welcomes all attendees to the convention.
­
Sponsored by
­
Fee: Complimentary
6-8 p.m.
TOUR: Building Cigar City: Historic Ybor City­ Walking Tour
­
CE Credit: 1.5­HSW­

Explore historic Ybor City, a national and­ local historic district known as "Cigar ­City." Learn about its 1880s industrial­ roots, vibrant immigrant community, and ­architectural legacy. Discover how the­ neighborhood evolved from a working class hub to a revitalized cultural landmark­ while hearing stories of the people who­ built Tampa.­
­
Read full description ­HERE.
Fee:­ $30
7-8 p.m.
Emerging Professionals Social Hour­

Connect and mingle with emerging­ professionals, associates, and students ­at this engaging networking event!­
Sponsored by:
­
­
Fee: Complimentary
7-9 p.m.
College of Fellows' Dinner (Members of the College of Fellows and their guests only)
Fee: $139
per person
Friday, August 1, 2025
7:15-8:15 a.m.
Session J: Early Bird Session: Full­ System Solutions for Division 7­ Architectural Wall Panels­
­
1 HSW
­
Aluminum Composite Material (ACM)­ and Metal Composite Material (MCM)­ offer durability, versatility, and a sleek­modern aesthetic. This session will­ discuss thin metal skins bonded to a ­lightweight core, providing strength,­ rigidity, and design flexibility, making them­ ideal for contemporary architecture and ­innovative building applications.
Speaker:
Tyler Landry
sales specialist,­ Compass Sales Group/Carter Architectural­
Panels, Inc.
­
­
Fee: Complimentary
7:15-8:15 a.m.
Session K: Women in Architecture:­ Leading by Design: Empowering Women ­in Architecture through Leadership and­ Service
­
1 LU
­
A panel of AIA Florida women presidents­ shares leadership insights, career ­journeys, and the impact of service.­ Learn how networking, volunteering, and­ mentorship can open doors, strengthen ­leadership skills, and shape career ­success.­
Speakers:
Shadia Jaramillo, AIA (moderator),­
Elizabeth Camargo, AIA
Beverly Frank, AIA,
Rhonda Hammond, AIA
Lourdes Solera,­ FAIA
Nati Soto, FAIA
­
Sponsored by:
­
­
Fee: Complimentary
8:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Euro-Wall Systems Golf Tournament

Join fellow architects for great­ networking, friendly competition, and­ most of all a fun round of golf. This year’s­ tournament will be held at Westchase­ Golf Course. Complimentary shuttle­ service will be provided for all players.­
Sponsored by:
­
­
Fee per person: $175
8-10:45 a.m.
TOUR:­ Tampa General Hospital: Weathering the­ Storms with Design and Resiliency
­
CE Credit: 2 HSW
­
Tour Tampa General Hospital’s state-of the-art resiliency features, including an ­elevated central energy plant, emergency ­water systems, and a storm-resistant­ “Aqua Fence.” Explore the design ­strategies behind its new surgical tower ­and learn how engineering innovations­ ensure operational continuity during­ extreme weather events.­
­
Read full description ­HERE.
Fee: $50
8:30-11 a.m.
TOUR: Historic Tampa Theatre Tour and ­Accessibility / Life Safety Upgrades

CE Credit: 1.5 HSW­

Step inside the 1926 Tampa Theatre, a ­Mediterranean courtyard-style movie ­palace. Discover its history, near demolition, and restoration efforts,­ including a $14 million renovation. Learn ­how life safety and accessibility upgrades ­preserve its charm while enhancing­ functionality, ensuring it remains a cultural ­icon for future generations.­
­
Read full description ­HERE.
Fee: $60
8:30-9:45 a.m.
Session L: Keynote: Architecture in the­ Age of Artificial Intelligence
­
1 HSW

Professor Neil Leach explores how ­AI is reshaping architectural practice, ­design processes, and the built ­environment. Learn about AI’s challenges, ­opportunities, and its transformative ­impact on architecture.­
Speaker:
Neil Leach,
professor, Florida­
International University (FIU)
­
Fee: Complimentary
10-11 a.m.
Session M: Setting Fee Structures:­ Balancing Risk, Trends and Project­ Characteristics to Align Value with Your ­Services
­
1 LU
­
Explore key factors in negotiating­ design fees, leveraging market data,­ and balancing risk. Learn how project­ characteristics, economic trends, and ­new technologies influence pricing­ strategies for architectural services.­
Speaker:
Will Swearingen,
principal, Zweig­ Group
Bryce Bounds, AIA
Broward County Construction Management Division
­
Fee: Complimentary
10-11 a.m.
Session N: 3D Printing Structures –­What’s the Big Deal?
­
1 HSW
­
Discover how 3D printing is ­revolutionizing architecture. This session ­covers key design considerations,­ project case studies, and the impact of ­3D printing on construction efficiency ­and sustainability.­
Speaker:
Sarah Lower, AIA
founder &­ principal, LLG Architecture, PLLC
­
Fee: Complimentary

­

10-11:45 a.m.

Kids Workshops - Morning Session
­
Architecture Through Feelings
­
The ­"Architecture Through Feelings"­ workshop introduces children to environmental psychology, exploring how space influences emotions, consciousness, and perception. Through tactile exploration of materials, participants will feel architecture before they create it. By discovering how textures shape experiences, children will transform their impressions into a unique 3D house project, turning sensory exploration into intentional design.
­
View more information ­­HERE.
Presented by:
KAP
­
Fee: Complimentary
Lunch on your own.
­
Parent/Guardian must be present.
11:15 a.m.-
12:15 p.m.
Session O: An Inconvenient Blindness:­ Investigating Corruption and Conflicts ­of Interest
­
1 LU
­
Explore the risks of bribery and conflicts ­of interest in architecture. Learn how to­ recognize ethical pitfalls, safeguard firm­ reputation, and uphold integrity through­ real-world case studies and practical ­strategies.­
Speaker:
Bret Hood
director, 21st Century­& Consulting
trainer, Jacob Leadership­ Institute (JLI)
­
Fee: Complimentary

11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.

Session P: Bridging Florida's Academia ­and Practice in a Changing World­
­
1 LU
­
Explore how architectural education­ shapes the profession and strengthens ­advocacy. This session highlights ­success stories from educators and­ architects working together to advance ­design thinking, public policy, and the­ built environment.­
Speakers:
Elizabeth Camargo, AIA­ (Moderator)
AIA Florida president
Beverly ­Frank, AIA,
AIA­Florida past president
Ron­ Dulaney, Jr., AIA
director and professor
School of Architecture & Community­­
Design, USF
­
Fee: Complimentary
12:30-2 p.m.
Session Q: Optional Lunch Session –­The Future and Intelligent Buildings
­
1.5 HSW
­
Learn how smart buildings optimize­ operations, enhance occupant safety,­ and improve efficiency. This session­ explores emerging trends, return on ­investment, and the evolving role of ­intelligent building ecosystems.­
Speaker:
Taw North
principal, regional­
director, TLC Engineering Solutions
Matt­ Carr
senior associate, project manager,­ Technology, TLC Engineering Solutions
­
­
Fee: $59­
12:30-2 p.m.
Session R: Optional Lunch Session –­Sliding Doors Unlocking Design and­ Functionality
­
1.5 HSW
­
Explore the benefits and applications of sliding door systems. Learn how these­ solutions enhance space management,­ improve functionality, and add aesthetic­ appeal to various environments. Discover innovations that redefine ­flexibility in architectural design.­
Speaker:
Kaden Stinger
Special-Lite Inc.
­
­
Fee: $59
1-5 p.m.
TOUR: Dali Museum - Art and Architecture

CE Credit: 1.5 HSW­
­
Tour the world-renowned Dali Museum,­ designed by Yann Weymouth. Explore its­ resilient geodesic glass structure, helical­ staircase, and sustainable features. Learn­ how the museum blends surrealist design­ with innovative architecture, creating ­a space that honors Salvador Dali’s­ artistic vision while ensuring practical and­ forward-thinking functionality.­
­
Read full description ­HERE.
Fee: $60
1-7 p.m.
Trade Show – Shifting Paradigms: ­Technologies and Materials for a More ­Resilient Florida

The trade show's extended hours allow­ more time to explore the latest products ­and services from top vendors at the­ 2025 Trade Show! This annual event­ offers valuable networking opportunities,­ enhanced by delicious food, refreshing ­drinks, and exciting prizes. A big thank you­ to our sponsors and exhibitors for making ­this experience possible.­
Sponsored by:
­
­
Fee: Complimentary
­
­
1:30-3:30 p.m.
Kids Workshops - Afternoon Session
­
From Canvas to Architecture
­
The ­"From Canvas to Architecture­workshop explores the deep connection between architecture and art, demonstrating how abstract visual compositions can shape spatial design. Through creative exploration, participants will transform their abstract artworks into three-dimensional exhibition spaces, learning how artistic expression influences architectural form.
­
View more information ­­­­HERE.
Presented by:
KAP
­
Fee: Complimentary
­
Parent/Guardian must be present.
2-5:30 p.m.
TOUR: Judy Genshaft USF Honors College
­
CE Credit: 1.5 HSW
­
Discover the innovative design of USF's­ Honors College, featuring dynamic­ learning spaces, sustainable elements, ­and modern architecture that fosters­ collaboration. Explore how the building’s layout and materials create an efficient,­ functional, and visually appealing­ academic environment that enhances ­student engagement and supports its­ educational mission.­
­
Read full description ­HERE.
Fee: $60
7-8 p.m.
Schools of Architecture Alumni­ Receptions

Florida schools of architecture ­will be hosting alumni receptions.
­
Fee: Complimentary
7-8 p.m. National Organization of Minority­ Architects (NOMA) Reception
Fee: Complimentary
7-9 p.m.
Drink and Draw! with Salsa Dancing
­
Step into a world where art gets spicy! Don’t miss the unique experience of­ "Drink & Draw!" paired with salsa dancing. Unleash your artistic flair as attendees sketch away in a lively atmosphere, with opportunities to win exciting prizes, and hit the dance floor and showcase your best salsa dance moves.­
Fee: Complimentary­
­
9-10 p.m.
FCPA Dessert Reception NEW!

Join The Florida Concrete & Products­ Association (FCPA) for a dessert­ reception and enjoy decadent petit fours ­and dessert cocktails.­
Sponsored by:
­
­
Fee: Complimentary
Saturday, August 2, 2025
7:15-8:15 a.m.
Session S: Early Bird Session – Multi-Family Construction – The Value of ­Resiliency & Sustainability
­
1 HSW
­
Examine key factors in multi-family ­design, including 50-year life cycles,­ material selection, and environmental ­resilience. Learn how masonry and­ other durable materials impact project ­longevity, sustainability, and long-term ­value in Florida’s demanding climate.­
Speaker:
Chris Bettinger
architectural­ specification manager
Oldcastle Coastal­­
­
­
Fee: Complimentary
7:15-8:15 a.m.
Session T: Early Bird Session - Resilient­ and Adaptable Roof System Design
­
1 HSW
­
With severe weather on the rise, current­ building codes may not fully prepare ­structures for future climate challenges.­This session explores resilient low-slope ­roof design, emphasizing proactive ­solutions that exceed minimum code ­requirements.
Speaker:
Mary Beth Reed, IIBC, RRO
building­ design manager, Southeast, GAF|Siplast
­
Fee: Complimentary
7:30 - 8:15 a.m.
AIA Florida Past Presidents’ Breakfast (Invitation only)
­
This year’s immediate past president,­ Rhonda Hammond, AIA, will host a special­ breakfast honoring AIA Florida’s past ­presidents and their guests. Former AIA­ Florida presidents and their guests are ­invited to this breakfast.­
Fee:
Complimentary, AIA Florida past­ presidents
­Spouse/guest: $50
8:30-9:45 a.m.
Session U: Keynote: Building a Better­ Tampa: Leadership, Vision, and­ Transformation
­
1 LU
­
Former Tampa mayor Bob Buckhorn­ shares insights on economic growth,­ urban revitalization, and community­ development. Learn how visionary ­leadership and strategic planning ­transformed Tampa into a thriving, ­inclusive, and dynamic city.­
Speaker:
Bob Buckhorn
executive vice­president and principal, U.S. Cities Practice,­Shumaker Advisors
­
Fee: Complimentary
8:30-
10:45 a.m.
TOUR: USF Health Morsani College of Medicine­ Building Walking Tour

CE Credit: 2 HSW
­
Tour its cutting-edge classrooms,­ labs, and clinical spaces designed for­ collaboration, sustainability, and well being. Learn how daylighting, biophilic­ elements, and smart materials enhance­ learning and research environments in an ­urban setting.­
­
Read full description ­HERE.
Fee: $30
8:45 a.m.-
12:15 p.m.
TOUR: University of Tampa Sykes Chapel and­ Plant Hall & Museum
­
CE Credit: 2.5 LU
­
Visit Sykes Chapel, featuring award winning architecture and the world’s ­most advanced bell tower. Explore Plant ­Hall, formerly the Tampa Bay Hotel, with­ its Moorish Revival design and historic ­interiors. Learn how this grand landmark­ evolved into a university icon blending ­history, education, and preservation.­
­
Read full description ­HERE.
Fee: $60
10-11:30 a.m.
Session V: An Emerging Firm Leader’s­ Guide to Determining Billable Rates
­
1.5 LU
­
Learn how firms calculate billable rates, ­breaking down salary, overhead, and­ profit. A panel of emerging firm leaders ­shares real-world experiences and pricing­ strategies, offering tools to establish­ competitive and sustainable rates.­
Speakers:
Tom Godin
Sr. director,­ Performance Consulting, Zweig Group
Bryce­ Bounds, AIA
Broward County Construction Management Division
Jaime E. Sobrino,­­FAIA, LEED AP, PMP
vice president, director of operations
LEO A DALY
­
Fee: Complimentary
10-11:30 a,m,
Session W: Designing Neuroinclusive­ Workplaces - Sensory Processing,­ Cognitive Wellbeing and Neuroinclusion­
­
1.5 HSW
­
Explore how architecture can support­ neurodiverse individuals, including those­ with ADHD, autism, and dyslexia. Learn­ about sensory-friendly design strategies, ­case studies, and how inclusive ­environments improve well-being for all­ occupants.­
Speakers:
Kay Sargent, FASID, FIIDA, CID,­
LEED AP, MCR.w, WELL AP
director of­ thought leadership, interiors, HOK
Adriana ­Rojas, IIDA, NCIDQ, LEED GA
director of­ interiors, principal, Tampa, HOK
­
Fee: Complimentary
10-11:30 a.m.
Session X: AIA Florida and the Florida­ Housing Coalition Work for Attainable ­Housing
­
1.5 HSW
­
Join the AIA Florida and Florida Housing ­Coalition Task Force to explore strategies ­for creating resilient, attainable housing. ­Learn how architects collaborate with­ industry partners to address housing ­challenges and design for long-term­ sustainability.
Speakers:
Housing Coalition and panelists
­
Fee: Complimentary
10-11:45 a.m.
Kids Workshops - Morning Session
­
Success Through Collaboration
­
This workshop highlights the collaboration between design professionals and contractors.­
­
View more information­­­­HERE.
Presented by:
ACE Mentorship and KAP
­
Fee: Complimentary
Lunch on your own.
­
Parent/Guardian must be present.
10 a.m.-
3 p.m.
Architecture Registration Exam (ARE) ­Review
­
Attendees will be introduced to the ­licensure requirements and practice­ questions from all six divisions of the­ ARE exam and learn how to identify key ­elements in each question. Participants­ will also learn some test-taking strategies­ to help on their licensure journey. ­Attendees will hear from associates and­ recently licensed architects about their­ journeys to licensure. They will share tips and tricks, study schedules, time ­management strategies, and how to ask ­for support from their firm.

­Speakers:
Seth Yeslow, AIA
Shadia Jaramillo,­ AIA
­
Sponsored by:
­
Fee: Complimentary
11:45 a.m.-1:15 p.m.
Session Y: BAM Builds – Featuring the­ Popsicle Toothpick Bridge Challenge
­
1.5 LU
­
Engage in this hands-on workshop­ showcasing Black Architects in the­ Making (BAM’s) interactive programs.­Through the Popsicle Stick Bridge ­Challenge, participants explore creativity, ­engineering, and teamwork while inspiring ­the next generation of architects.­
Speakers:
Craig Aquart, AIA, NOMA, RID,­CSI,
Naomi Harrison, AIA, NOMA, LEED AP
Stacey Boynton,­AIA, NOMA
Anson Stuart, AIA, NOMA
­
Fee: Complimentary
11:45 a.m.-1:15 p.m.
Session Z: Optional Lunch Session – ­Masonry Game Show
­
1.5 HSW
­
Test your knowledge of masonry­ best practices in a fun, interactive­ format. Learn about insulation in­ CMU construction, available technical­ resources, and the winner of the 2025 ­AIA Florida Masonry Design Award.­
Speakers:
Chris Bettinger
architectural ­specifications manager, Oldcastle Coastal
­
Fee: $59
11:45 a.m.-1:15 p.m.
Session AA: Optional Lunch Session –­Designing Terrazzo for Sustainability
­
1.5 HSW
­
This session provides an overview ­of cementitious and epoxy terrazzo systems, covering installation,­ applications, benefits, and limitations. ­Learn how terrazzo contributes to sustainable, durable design solutions.
Speaker:
Phillip Smith
marketing manager, Sherwin-Williams
­
Fee: $59
11:45 a.m.-
2:30 p.m.
TOUR: Florida Aquarium Hard Hat and Behind­ the Scenes
­
CE Credit: 1.5 HSW
­
Explore the Florida Aquarium’s biophilic­ design, sustainability initiatives, and ­life support systems. See new habitat­ construction for puffins, penguins, and­ sea lions. Learn how architecture fosters­ human and animal well-being. Arrive via­ Tampa’s eco-friendly streetcar, integrating ­sustainable transportation with the tour ­experience.
­
Read full description ­HERE
Fee: $30
12:45 -1:45 p.m.
Florida Foundation for Architecture Board Lunch Meeting (Invitation only)
­
1:30-2:30 p.m.
Session BB: The Nuts & Bolts of­ Succession Planning
­
1 LU
­
Discover key pathways to ownership­ transition, including internal transfers,­ ESOPs, M&A, and private equity. Learn­ industry trends, common challenges,­ and strategies to confidently navigate­ succession at any career stage. Gain ­insights into the emotional and logistical ­aspects of transition to ensure a smooth­ and successful leadership change.
Speakers:
Will Swearingen
principal, Zweig­ Group
Ignacio Reyes, FAIA
chief­ development officer, DLR Group
­
Fee: Complimentary
1:30-2:30 p.m.
Session CC: AI in Architecture:­ Understanding Tech, Its Applications,­ and Ethical Considerations
­
1 LU
­
Learn how AI is transforming design,­ permitting, and project management ­while ensuring responsible integration ­into workflows.­
Speaker:
Dheekshita Kumar
CEO and cofounder, CivCheck­
­
Fee: Complimentary
1:30-2:30 p.m.
Session DD: Designing for Health: ­Adopting Novel Materials and­­ Furthering Pilots in Practice
­
1 HSW
­
Explore the challenges and benefits of­ integrating novel building materials into design and construction. Learn from real-world case studies where innovation has enhanced health, safety, and sustainability. Discover key takeaways from architects, consultants, and owners on overcoming hurdles, building consensus, and creating healthier, more resilient spaces for occupants and communities.­
Speaker:
Vickie Breemes, CCS, LEED AP,­LFA, WELL AP
national director of Advanced­
building technologies regen colab, Little­
Diversified Architectural Consulting
­
Fee: Complimentary
1:30-3:30 p.m.
Kids Workshops - Morning Session
­
AIM, BAM, KAP, ACE Exhibition
­
Parents and friends are invited to view the students' work exhibited during the convention, and KAP will present details about their program.
­
View more information ­HERE.
Presented by:
AIM/BAM/KAP/ACE
­
Fee: Complimentary
­
Parent/Guardian must be present.
2:30-3:00 p.m.
Florida Foundation for Architecture­ Annual Raffle­
­
The annual raffle is back! All proceeds­ will support the Florida Foundation for­ Architecture's scholarship fund, helping­ Florida architecture students pursue­ their education. Don't miss­­your chance ­to contribute and win—grab your raffle­ tickets at the AIA Florida Logo Store or ­the registration desk before the drawing!
Sponsored by:
­
3-5 p.m.
Session EE: Advanced FBC: 8th Edition (2023) Fair Housing vs. Florida Accessibility Code

2 HSW
­
Understand how mixed-use buildings ­must comply with both Fair Housing and Florida Accessibility Code requirements. Learn when each applies and how to­ ensure compliance for residential and­ commercial projects.­

This course satisfies the two-hour­ Advanced Florida Building Code­ continuing education requirement for ­architects licensed in Florida.
Speaker:
Miguel Rodriguez, FAIA, NCARB,­NOMA
founding principal, Rodriguez­ Architects, Inc.
­
Fee: Complimentary
5-6:30 p.m.
Ellison Construction Reception (Invitation Only)

Ellison Construction is hosting a private­ VIP reception, located at the Beacon ­Rooftop Bar at JW Marriott, with drinks ­and light hors d'oeuvres before the­ design awards ceremony.­
Sponsored by:
­
­
Fee: Complimentary, Invitation Only
6:30-10 p.m.
AIA Florida Design & Honor Awards ­Reception and Presentation

Celebrate excellence in architecture and­ the architects whose work enriches our­ communities at the AIA Florida 2025­ Design & Honor Awards Reception­ and Presentation. Guests will enjoy­ hors d’oeuvres and drinks during the ­reception. The awards presentation will ­feature the 2025 Design & Honor Award ­recipients and the announcement of the­ 2025 People’s Choice winner.­
Sponsored by:
­
­
Fee: $95, $45 (17 and under), $65 for students
­
­
­
­
­
­­­­­­­­­­­­­­
­
­
­
­
­
­
­
­
­
­
 

©2025 AIA Florida.   Contact Us · Privacy Policy