Five members of Amenta Emma Architects participated as speakers and panelists at the AIA Connecticut Architecture Conference and Expo on September 26, 2025, sharing expertise on workplace evolution, sustainable design practices, and equity in the profession.
The firm’s involvement spanned three continuing education sessions addressing critical issues facing the architecture profession today.
Reimagining the Architectural Workplace
Joy M. Ortiz-Colón, AIA, and Leen Hariri, Assoc. AIA, contributed to “Reworking Work: A Generational Conversation on the Future of the Architectural Workplace.” Hosted by the AIA Emerging Professionals Committee, the interactive session examined how different generations are experiencing and reshaping workplace culture in the post-pandemic era. The multi-generational panel and audience discussion explored evolving expectations around work-life balance, remote work, firm culture, mentorship, and equitable career opportunities.
Framework for Sustainable Practice
Brett Lambert, AIA, and Michael Tyre, AIA, led “Leveraging the AIA’s Initiatives to Transform Practice – One Firm’s Journey.” The session detailed Amenta Emma Architects’ adoption of the AIA Framework for Design Excellence, AIA 2030 Commitment, and the AIA Materials Pledge. Through real project examples and firm-level strategies, Brett and Michael demonstrated how these frameworks have transformed the firm’s design process, material selection, and project delivery while reducing carbon impact across their portfolio.
Leading Through Change
Jenna McClure, AIA, served as moderator for “Navigating Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Today’s Political Landscape.” The session addressed the challenges EDI initiatives face amid increasing political and legal scrutiny, providing leaders and professionals with strategies to reimagine their approaches while maintaining alignment with core business objectives and values.
The meeting also introduced the 2026 officers, including incoming Young Architect Representative, James Regnier, AIA, and Connecticut Architecture Foundation Liaison to the AIA Connecticut Board, Robert Swain, Jr., AIA, LEED AP.
The AIA Connecticut Architecture Conference and Expo brought together professionals from across the state to earn continuing education credits and engage with emerging trends shaping the future of architectural practice.
