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Speakers
2025 AIA Florida Convention & Trade Show Speakers
(In Alphabetical Order)
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Dr. Simone Bhan Ahuja
Founder
Blood Orange
Dr. Simone Bhan Ahuja is the founder of Blood Orange, a global innovation and strategy firm headquartered in Minneapolis, USA. She is co-author of the international bestseller "Jugaad Innovation," called “the most comprehensive book yet on the subject” on frugal innovation by the Economist, her most recent book, "Disrupt-It-Yourself"(HarperCollins Leadership, 2019), with a foreword by Stanley Black & Decker CEO Jim Loree, examines how large, established organizations can act more like fast and frugal startups. This practical innovation playbook makes clear how and why leaders must support the passionate and purpose-driven “intrapreneurs” inside their organizations in order to drive innovation and a path to sustainable growth.
Simone has served as an advisor to MIT’s Practical Impact Alliance and Judge Business School at the University of Cambridge. Simone provides innovation and strategy advisory and consulting services to organizations including 3M, UnitedHealth Group, Procter & Gamble, Target Corp, Stanley Black & Decker, and the World Economic Forum. She is a regular contributor to the Harvard Business Review online, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis, and a practitioner of improvisational comedy.
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Craig Aquart, AIA, NOMA, RID, CSI
Managing Principal
MCHarry & Associates, Inc.
Craig Aquart is the Managing Principal of MCHarry & Associates, a 66 – year old Miami architectural firm that specializes in public sector projects. He has over 30 years of experience in the industry and is best known for his passion for the community and the profession. This is best demonstrated through his leadership and commitment to the Architects in the Making (AIM) Program where he mentors young students exploring architecture as a possible career. He realized that educating middle and high school students about architecture is vital in the industry’s future and he is especially determined to improve diversity and inclusivity in the profession. On observing the lack of Black Americans presence in the industry, he began the Black Architects in the Making (BAM) program in 2016. BAM consists of dedicated professionals who immerse themselves in existing educational programs in communities where people of color live, learn and play to enhance student’s knowledge about architecture. BAM has an active mentorship program for high school, college students and architecture interns who have shown keen desire to pursue architecture as a career. BAM also provides scholarships to deserving students of architecture from underserved communities. Craig was president of South Florida NOMA in 2020 and past president of AIA Miami.
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Jessica Bantom
Principal
DLR Group
Jessica Bantom is a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging practitioner, interior design consultant, and speaker whose mission is to help designers increase their cultural competence so they can create in ways that honor humanity. Serving in the role of Global Leader of Equity, Diversity, and Belonging for DLR Group, Bantom is active in the design industry as an engaged advocate committed to promoting DEIB in the industry and in practice. A graduate of the University of Virginia and Marymount University, Bantom is a skilled management consultant with over 20 years of experience, a compelling speaker, and a certified facilitator and coach with a passion for enabling individuals to take actions that create meaningful outcomes for historically excluded people. You can learn more about Jessica and her book, Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World, at JessicaBantom.com.
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Amanda Barton, AIA, RID, NOMA, LEED AP, WELL AP, LFAV
Vice President
HKS
Amanda, recently named as ENR Texas & Southeast 2025 Top Young Professionals, is a former AIA Miami president and active member of both AIA Miami and SoFloNOMA. Amanda strives to enhance communities by meeting challenges with unique design solutions that influence the future of the industry while also remaining timeless. Amanda, who specializes in coastal hospitality design at HKS, works on projects from master planning, conceptual design, and through documentation. She is a strong advocate for sustainable design, sitting on the AIA Miami and AIA Florida Resilience and Adaptation Committees, participating in multiple LEED and WELL projects, and promoting environmental resilience through education and advocacy. Amanda also participates in multiple HKS initiatives that help push the boundary of ESG, as well as on an internal research team focused on resilience, and is one of the authors of Resilience Design Toolkit, helping integrate resilience design into architectural practice.
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Gabriella Bermea, AIA, NOMA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C, WELL AP
Senior Associate
Perkins Eastman
Gabriella is a recipient of the AIA National Young Architect Award, has formerly served on the Young Architects Forum (YAF) Advisory Committee as Communications Director. As a Senior Associate and Architect with Perkins Eastman DPC, Gabriella specializes in educational and inclusive design, community building, and stakeholder engagement. Her work spans architecture, philanthropy, and advocacy, focusing on K-12 partnerships, developing emerging leaders, and crafting community-driven solutions.
Gabriella is known for her ability to build strong client relationships and empower teams to reach their full potential. She currently serves on the Executive Board of Directors for the Texas Society of Architects as Vice President of Practice and Recognition, among other philanthropic roles. She has also authored several articles for AIA Architect, Texas Architect Magazine, and AIA Young Architects Forum Connection.
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Chris Bettinger
Architectural Specifictions Manager
Oldcastle
Chris Bettinger, Oldcastle Coastal Architectural Specification Manager. Chair of the Florida Masonry Association Apprenticeship, Membership and ProMasonry Committees. This year Chris accepted an appointment with the National Block Design Collective Board.
A Graduate of the University of Michigan, School of Architecture and School of Business. Chris moved to Florida with Oldcastle in 2007, he has 30 years’ experience in masonry design and specification. From 2011 to 2024, Chris served on the Board of Directors of the Masonry Association of Florida and as their chair from 2022 - 2024.
This is his 13th year presenting at the Florida AIA State Convention. Over the past 14 years he has issued over 40,000 CEU’s to AIA Members in Florida. Chris has been a featured speaker at the National Concrete Masonry Association Conference, National Home Builders Show & Southeast Builders Conference.
Chris lives in Winter Springs, Florida with his wife Jamie. They have two sons and became grandparents in 2024 with the birth of their granddaughter Emilia.
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Diana Bloom
Accountability Consultant
Totally Accountable
Diana Bloom is a dedicated consultant specializing in accountability, committed to empowering professionals and students. She has provided valuable knowledge and practical tools to participants worldwide through her seminars, conference workshops, webinars, and executive coaching sessions. Diana helps clients implement changes that enhance accountability and reduce stress in their personal and professional lives.
Known for her humorous, engaging, and straightforward style, Diana’s workshops and coaching sessions sharpen delegation skills, improve project management, strengthen communication, and eliminate mistakes, while fostering a collaborative culture.
In addition to her consulting work, Diana serves on the faculty at the Spertus Institute for the master’s in Jewish professional studies and at the Foundation for Jewish Camp’s Cornerstone Fellowship.
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Stacey Boynton, AIA, NOMA
Studio-US [Design]
Stacey Boynton, AIA and NOMA, is a South Florida native with a deep passion for architecture and design. Her journey into the field began at Northeast High School, which was once a magnet school for architecture and design. From there, she went on to pursue her master’s degree in architecture and community design at the University of South Florida.
After graduating, Stacey worked as an Architectural Designer at several firms, dedicating years to honing her craft. During this time, she worked tirelessly to obtain her architectural license. Today, she focuses on her practice at STUDIO-US [DESIGN], AIA Fort Lauderdale, South Florida NOMA, and BAM Broward, continuing to develop her expertise and passion for architecture.At BAM Broward, Stacey is also deeply committed to inspiring the next generation of architects. Through this organization, she enjoys exposing students to the world of architecture and design. She loves seeing students’ curiosity sparked when they ask questions and explore the field. Her goal is to one day inspire a student to pursue a career as an architect. Through her work with BAM Broward, Stacey has also built meaningful relationships with local organizations, including Bonnet House, Boys and Girls Clubs, and Surf Skate Science, among others.
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Bryce W. Bounds, AIA
Construction Project Management Supervisor
Broward County Government
Bryce Bounds is a Miami native and architect in the Public Works Department of Broward County Government in South Florida. There he oversees a portfolio of mission-critical vertical design and construction work for taxpayers. Prior to the public sector, Mr. Bounds was in private practice for fifteen years. His work included public schools, state colleges, secure armed service facilities, and preservation or renovation work in multiple designated historic districts.
Mr. Bounds is involved with AIA at the local, state and national levels. He currently serves as the AIA Florida representative to the Young Architects Forum (YAF), the vice president of the AIA Fort Lauderdale chapter, a committee member for AIA Florida’s conference planning committee, and chairs the South Florida Young Architect Awards committee. He has also served on multiple NCARB committees and is on the Board of Directors of the nationally ranked magnet school Design and Architecture Senior High in Miami, Florida.
Mr. Bounds earned degrees in Architecture and Fine Art from the Rhode Island School of Design. He was a visiting student to University of Miami’s School of Architecture, and did graduate field coursework with University of Florida’s Preservation Institute: Nantucket as part of the HABS/HAER program for the Library of Congress.
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Vickie Breemes, CCS, LEED AP BD+C, LFA, WELL AP
National Director of Advanced Building Technologies
Regen CoLabLittle
Vickie directs the talented professionals on Little’s Advanced Building Technologies team, whose sole focus is furthering the firm’s progress in the areas of specifications, certification management, and embodied carbon. A passionate advocate for “doing the right thing” to preserve our planet, Vickie filters her daily responsibilities through that lens to ensure each decision she makes and every action the team takes supports this goal. She believes that viewing sustainability in its simplest form will cultivate collaboration and spark breakthrough thinking, resulting in superior results and creating a better future for all living things. She’s actively involved with the AIA Sustainability Leaders LFRT by leading them Materials Working Group and mindful Materials Common Materials Framework Forum and Prioritization Taskforce. With over 28 years of experience, Vickie launched Material Transparency@Little Standard and is actively involved with advancing Little's philosophy toward a regenerative future as a core member of the firm's Regen CoLab.
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Steven Brooke
Fellow, American Academy in Rome
Adjunct Professor, University of Miami School of Architecture
Steven Brooke is a Fellow of the American Academy in Rome, winner of the AIA National Honor Award and a five-time recipient of the AIA Florida Photographer of the Year Award. He has taught at the University of Miami School of Architecture for over 12 years. Brooke has photographed and authored over 40 books on architecture and design, with significant publications on Miami Beach Art Deco, Rome, and Jerusalem. Brooke was chosen as oneof the 50 leading photographers in the world to exhibit and lecture at Xposure 2022 in Sharjah, UAE. Based in Miami throughout his career, his publications and articles champion Florida architecture and design worldwide.
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Bob Buckhorn
Executive Vice President and Principal U.S. Cities Practice
Shumaker Advisors
With a long history of service in the City of Tampa, Bob is Executive Vice President and Principal U.S. Cities Practice for Shumaker Advisors Florida, where he provides communications strategy, public affairs consulting, and business development services across Florida. In his role, he remains focused on economic development opportunities and urban development strategies, while working with clients to improve the overall quality of life in the community. Bob served as the Mayor of Tampa, Florida from 2011 to 2019, where he led more than 4,300 dedicated, hard-working, and forward-thinking civil servants. As mayor, Bob led Tampa out of the largest recession since the Great Depression. Facing a $30 million deficit upon taking office, he annually balanced Tampa’s billion-dollar budget eight straight years and made strategic investments in infrastructure to prepare Tampa for the future. One of Bob’s first acts as mayor was to create a diverse panel of local businesspeople and community activists to help reshape how City Hall does business. Bob spearheaded the development of the Invision Plan, a blueprint for the development of our urban core, and he successfully worked with the Obama Administration to secure a grant to complete the Tampa Riverwalk. Under his leadership, Bob set a tone of inclusiveness in Tampa as the city acted as a pioneer for equality by establishing one of Florida’s first Domestic Partnership Registries and Tampa has been recognized by the Human Rights Campaign with a perfect 100 percent score on its Municipal Equality Index. As mayor, Bob laid the foundation for Tampa to compete with other top tier cities by fostering a culture of inclusiveness, responsiveness, and determination and he continues to do so. The transformation of Tampa over the last 10 years is a testimony to the vision and execution that he brought to his time as Mayor.
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Elizabeth Camargo, AIA, LEED AP,
2025 AIA Florida President
Principal
EC Architecture + Design
Elizabeth Camargo is the founder of EC Architecture+Design, an architecture and interior design firm in Miami Beach for 20 years. Previously she worked at nationally renowned architectural firms in New York, Los Angeles, and Miami. She graduated from Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, with a degree in Architecture and Planning, and earned her Master of Science in Architectural and Environmental Design from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Elizabeth has served AIA Miami in various capacities. In 2017, she became the 5th woman president in the chapter’s 88-year history. Under her leadership, the Resilient Recovery Task Force was established to provide disaster assistance in response to the devastation from Hurricane Irma. She also supported the creation of the AIA Miami Christopher Kelly Leadership Development Program. At the state level, Elizabeth is presently serving as the 2025 AIA Florida president. Nationally, she was a member of the Public Outreach Committee and currently serves on the Resilience and Disaster Response Committee.
Elizabeth has been an adjunct professor at the Florida International University School of Architecture and has participated in juries at both the University of Miami and FIU. She is also a member of the Miami Beach Historic Preservation Board and the immediate past president of Dance! Now Miami Board of Trustees.
Elizabeth Camargo is the founder of EC Architecture+Design, an architecture and interior design firm in Miami Beach since 2004. Previously she worked in nationally renowned architectural firms in New York, Los Angeles, and Miami. She graduated from Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, with a degree in Architecture and Planning, and received her Master of Science in Architectural and Environmental Design from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Elizabeth served AIA Miami in several capacities: in 2017 as the 5th woman president in the chapter’s 88-year history. Under her leadership, the Resilient Recovery Task Force was established to offer a disaster assistance program in response to the devastation from Hurricane Irma. She also supported the creation of the AIA Miami Christopher Kelly Leadership Development Program. At the state level, Elizabeth serves as vice-president, chairing the Resilience Committee for two consecutive years. Nationally, she is a member of the Resilience and Adaptation Advisory Group and Public Outreach Committee.
Elizabeth has been an adjunct professor at the Florida International University-School of Architecture, serving as juror at the University of Miami and FIU. She is a member of the Bal Harbour Architectural Review Board and president of Dance!Now Miami Board of Trustees.
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William Matthew Carr
Senior Associate, Project Manager, Technology
TLC Engineering Solutions
With over 20 years of experience, Matt is well-versed in electrical, communications & technology, electronic systems engineering, including fire alarm, security, local and wide-area networking topologies using wireless, fiber optic and Cat 6-based distribution systems. He focuses on the design infrastructure cabling for networking, fiber optics and CATV. Matt uses his design build background to ensure that a coordinated project is delivered to the client within the project budget.
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Royal Casey
Florida Sales and Technical Manager
Pac-Clad
Royal W. Casey is the Florida Sales and Technical Manager for Petersen Aluminum Corporation (Pac-Clad). He has been in the metal roofing industry for over 22 years. In the first 10 years of his career, he gained his experience by working in the family roofing business in Orlando, Florida that specialized in installing only metal. In 2015 he accepted a position with Petersen Aluminum Corporation. Royal is a past president of the Greater Orlando CSI Chapter. He is an accomplished speaker and industry educator.
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Brad Cooke
Executive Vice President
Strategic Property Partners, LLC
Brad Cooke is a third-generation Tampa resident with a passion for creating transformative urban developments. At Strategic Property Partners, Brad serves on the executive committee and is responsible for creating and executing the development vision for the company. Before returning home to Tampa, Brad worked in New York City for some of the country’s most innovative architecture and development firms.
Brad serves on the board of the Tampa Theatre and is also an active voice on urban issues throughout the community. He earned degrees with honors in architecture and design at The University of Florida (BA) and Washington University, St Louis (MA) and pursued additional studies in real estate finance and development at New York University.
Brad, his wife Margaret, and their two children live in Tampa Heights where they enjoy daily urban life in a townhouse project they designed and developed themselves.
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Ron Dulaney, AIA, LEED AP BD+C
Director & Professor, School of Architecture & Community Design
University of South Florida
Director Dulaney is a distinguished architect, educatior, and scholar whose work spans multiple disciplines. HIs research focuses on workforce housing history in the U.S., design representation through drawing and photograpy, and innovative design pedagogies. With a rich background in architecgtureal practice, Dulaney has worked with renowned firms such as Bohlin Cywinski Jackson and Ray Huff Architects.
Dulaney's academic career is marked by excellence in teaching and community engagement. He has held faculty positions at several universities, including West Virginia University, Virginia Tech, and the University of South Florida. His student-centered approach has led to numerous awards and successful community projects, such as the Franciscan Center's Riverside Pavilion.
Beyond academia, Dulaney has made significant contributions to community development. He has led initiatives like Complete Streets study for Parkersburg, WV, and served on various city and regional boards. His commitment to public service culminated in his roles as a Morgantown City Councilor and Mayor, earning him recognition as Local Public Official of the Year in 2018.
Dulaney's educational background includes a bachelor's degree in studio fine arts from Furman University and a Master of Architecture from Virginia Tech. He is a licensed architect in Florida and holds a LEED AP BD+C credential, reflecting his commitment to sustainable design practices.
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Tracey Eaves
Managing Director
Zweig Group
Tracey Eaves is a seasoned valuation expert with decades of experience and started specializing in AEC firms in 2010. Since then, Tracey has completed valuations for a diverse range of businesses, from small enterprises to multi-million-dollar operating companies and holding companies with complex asset portfolios. Her expertise spans assignments all across the United States, as well as abroad. Tracey is a widely recognized expert witness in business valuation litigation matters, trusted for her meticulous analysis and clear communication in high-stakes cases.
Tracey holds multiple senior-level certifications, including the Certified Business Appraiser (CBA) designation from The Institute of Business Appraisers, the Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA) designation from the National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts, the Business Certified Appraiser (BCA) designation from the International Society of Business Appraisers, and the Certified Machinery and Equipment Appraiser (CMEA) designation from the NEBB Institute. She currently serves as co-chair of the International Society of Business Appraisers’ Board of Governors, reflecting her leadership and dedication to the field.
Beyond her consulting work, Tracey is an engaging speaker and prolific writer on topics related to business valuation, ownership transition, and financial strategies for AEC firms. Tracey provides concise and pragmatic thought leadership that helps business owners understand and navigate the complexities of valuation and transition planning.
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Beverly Frank, AIA, LEED AP
Principal, BFrank Studio
Beverly Frankis the principal and architect at BFRANK Studios, LLC. Active in her community, she is the former president and a current member of the Florida American Institute of Architects and was a member of the University of South Florida School of Architecture and Community Design Dean of Libraries Advisory Board. Frank currently serves on the Board of Architecture and Interior Design (BOAID) and the Florida Council of Arts and Culture. Frank earned her bachelor’s degree in art education and her master’s degree in architecture from the University of South Florida.
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Arlenne Gil, AIA, NOMA, NCARB
Principal and Architect
DLR Group
Arlenne is an architect and principal at DLR Group, focusing on higher education. She has been a volunteer with AIA for more than a decade, as well as several other community organizations with a focus on helping to diversify the architecture profession. She was a founding member of Black Architects in the Making – Orlando and served as the “Architect for the Children’s Village of the World” for FusionFest. She is passionate about mentoring students, helping to hone their skills. She has spoken multiple times at both national AIA and NOMA conferences in conjunction with the Large Firm Roundtable (LFRT) on the business aspects of the architecture practice. Arlenne is currently serving on the Young Architect Forum (YAF) Advisory Committee as the knowledge director and previously as the first young architect representative for AIA Florida.
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Tom Godin
Senior Director of Performance Consulting
Zweig Group
Tom joined Zweig Group after a 19-year career as the Chief Operating Officer of a Washington DC-based engineering company. In that role, he was responsible for the business operations of a multi-office firm, to include oversight of finance, accounting, human resources, information technology, facilities, and legal functions. Tom was a member of the firm’s Executive Committee and helped guide it through two economic shocks (the 2008 Great Recession and the 2020 Covid Crisis), an ownership transition from founders to the 2nd generation of leaders, and periods of high growth. Prior to this, he held operations and management roles in the telecommunication industry and served on active duty as a nuclear power-trained Submarine Warfare Officer in the United States Navy. Systems thinking is a particular area of interest for Tom. He brings a strong understanding of the complex interactions between clients, employees, and the economic/business goals of AEC firms. Tom holds an MBA from the University of North Carolina, and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Duke University.
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Rhonda Hammond, AIA
Principal
Hammond Design Group, Inc.
Rhonda Hammond, AIA, is a principal at Hammond Design Group Architects, in Tallahassee, Florida. As 2024 AIA Florida President, she has championed the cause of architects through her advocacy efforts testifying before the state legislature supporting our QBS statute, communicating the value of architects by launching an association podcast, promoting Architecture in Education issuing a component challenge throughout the state, her coordination of statewide disaster relief efforts, and her support of women and architecture students.
She received her Bachelor of Architecture from Florida A & M University’s School of Architecture and her Masters of Sustainable Design from the University of Florida. Rhonda has also served as an Associate Professor of Architecture at FAMU School of Architecture & Engineering Technology.
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Naomi Harrison, Associate AIA
Senior Project Manager
MCHarry & Associates, Inc.
Naomi Harrison, a senior project manager at MC Harry & Associates in Miami, Florida, oversees the firm’s K-12 educational projects serving Miami-Dade and Broward County Schools, the nation’s 4th, and 6th largest school districts. Throughout her 24+ year career at MCHA, Naomi has overseen $140M in construction projects as a senior project manager and $150M as a junior project manager. She is active in the South Florida design community and sits on various boards and committees.
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Michael “Bret” Hood
21st Century Learning & Consulting
JLI Leadership Trainer
Michael “Bret” Hood is a financial crime, ethics, money laundering and leadership expert with 25 years’ experience in the Federal Bureau of Investigation. During his career, Bret has worked on some of the most infamous cases in American history to include 9/11, the Oklahoma City Bombing and the multi-billion-dollar HealthSouth fraud case.Because of his experience, Bret was chosen to be an adviser when the FBI created their executive leadership development programs as well as being chosen to be a leadership instructor at the FBI’s National Academy, a 10-week college program for law enforcement executives from all over the world. Bret has been qualified as a financial crimes and money laundering expert in the Middle District of Florida as well as the Eastern District of Missouri. He is a four-time winner of the United States Attorney’s Office Special Agent of the Year award for his work in financial crime and money laundering. In addition, Bret has received two commendations from the FBI Director for Leadership and Innovation.
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Shadia Jaramillo, AIA, WELL AP, NCARB
Project Architect
Goodwyn Mills Cawood
Shadia Jaramillo is a Project Architect at Goodwyn Mills Cawood, with experience in various project types, including residential, commercial, higher education, healthcare, hospitality, and aviation.Shadia firmly believes that mentorship and support are integral to personal and professional growth. Her commitment to these principles is evident in her involvement in various leadership roles throughout her career. She has served on the AIA FL Board as Associate Director at Large and played a similar role in the AIA FL NW chapter, where she advocated for the profession and championed emerging professionals.
Currently, Shadia serves as a member of the Young Architects Forum Special Projects group. Additionally, she is the Co-Founder and Co-chair of the AIA FLNW Women in Architecture committee and contributes to the Florida/Caribbean Architect magazine group.She was honored as the Associate of the Year by both AIA FL and AIA FLNW, recognizing her as an upcoming leader in her field and community. Her dedication to mentoring extends beyond organizational boundaries to a mentorship role in Arquitina andindependently via her social media platform @shadia_architecture, where she creates valuable content for emerging professionals, architects, and the general public about the importance of architecture and design.
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Malcolm Jones, AIA
Principal & Owner
MAJ Architecture & Design
Malcolm Jones, a Florida-certified architect and alumnus of Florida International University, obtained his license in February 2023 and is the owner and principal architect at MAJ Architecture + Design. He also serves as an adjunct professor at CityLab - Orlando and chairs Black Architects in the Making - Orlando, inspiring young students of color to pursue architecture. Additionally, Malcolm is a board member of the Orlando Foundation for Architecture, where he contributes to the region's architectural discourse.
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Dheekshita Kumar
CEO
CivCheck
As the CEO of CivCheck, Dheekshita brings a wealth of experience in leveraging AI and machine learning to solve critical challenges in the public sector, particularly in the realm of permitting and the built environment. With a strong technical foundation from MIT in mechanical and electrical engineering, as well as computer science, Dheekshita was instrumental in developing AI ethics coursework for MIT's largest machine learning course, educating students on responsible AI and ML development. She has applied cutting-edge AI technologies across various sectors, including education and utilities, driving innovation that makes a tangible impact. At CivCheck, Dheekshita leads transformative efforts in construction permitting, helping cities and applicants streamline processes, cutting approval times by 70-80% while ensuring a high standard of quality and human oversight.
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Neil Leach
Architect and Professor
Florida International University
Neil Leach is an architect and professor at Florida International University, and has also taught at the Architectural Association, Harvard GSD, Columbia GSAPP, Cornell, laaC and SCI-Arc. He is the co-founder of DigitalFUTURES, an online educational platform, and a former researcher for NASA, where he developed 3D printing technologies for the Moon and Mars. He has published over 50 books, most recently: Architecture in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: An Introduction to Al for Architects, first edition (Bloomsbury, 2022), second edition (Bloomsbury, 2025); Interactive Design (Birkhauser, 2023) and Machine Hallucinations: Architecture and AI (Wiley, 2023).
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Elaine Molinar, AIA
Managing Partner
Snøhetta Architecture & Landscape Architecture
Elaine Molinar is an architect and Managing Partner of Snøhetta’s US practice, an 80-person interdisciplinary design studio that takes an integrative approach to architecture, landscape, and interior design to create works that enrich connections between people, material resources, sustainable design, natural habitats, and ecosystems. Elaine’s focus on work that is rooted in fostering dignity, a sense of belonging, and the collective right to the enjoyment of public space drives her career not only as a design leader but also as an employer and cultivator of Snøhetta’s growing practice. Recently, Elaine led the design of the firm’s first children’s museum in her hometown of El Paso, Texas, and is currently leading the design of a science museum in Canada.
She is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin and is a 2019 recipient of the Texas Medal of Arts. In 2022 Elaine was honored with the Beverly Willis Award for Mentorship. Elaine has a deep interest in nurturing the future generation of design professionals and is an active participant on the advisory board of her alma mater, the University of Texas at Austin. As an advisory board member to the online platform Madame Architect and previous board member at the Van Alen Institute, Elaine continues to share her broad perspective rooted in a career that has crossed cultures and generations.
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Upali Nanda, PhD, Assoc. AIA, EDAC, ACHE
Global Sector Director, Innovation
Partner and Executive Vice President
HKS Architects
Dr. Upali Nanda is EVP and Global Sector Director for Innovation at HKS, an international architectural firm where she oversees a range of innovation practices that work within, through and beyond the built environment for meaningful impact. Prior to her current role she served as the global research director for the firm and as the Executive Director for the non-profit Center for Advanced Design Research and Education. Dr. Nanda teaches as Professor of Practice at the Taubman School of Architecture and Urban Planning at University of Michigan and serves on the board of the Academy for Neuroscience for Architecture. She received her bachelor’s degree in architecture from School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, M.A. from National University of Singapore, and PhD in Architecture from Texas A&M University.
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Melanie Ngami, AIA, NOMA
Associate and Architect
GBBN
Melanie currently serves as the Young Architect Representative for AIA Pennsylvania on the Young Architects Forum (YAF). She has spoken multiple times at both national AIA and NOMA Conferences in conjunction with the Large Firm Roundtable (LFRT) and the Small Firm Exchange (SFx) about the impacts of technology in our profession, including how to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) and developing tools for streamlined project management techniques. Mel uses her craft to create spaces that give people room to explore their identities and the history of the land they inhabit. Her passion for technology drives her practice, where she strives to broaden the perspectives shaping our built environment. Attuned to the psychological and physical qualities of architecture, Mel understands architecture as an act of storytelling that engages people, place, and past as it anticipates the future. Mel is also a former Adjunct Professor of Architecture at both Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh.
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Taw North, RCCDD, LEED AP, GBCI, BICSI
Principal, Reginal Director, Technology
TLC Engineering Solutions
Taw has 20+ years of experience designing and commissioning low-voltage technology systems. His expertise includes voice data, security, access control systems, and AV systems specifically tailored to the unique demands of each facility. He works closely with owners to ensure their project’s technology and equipment goals are met and systems are fully operational upon occupancy. Taw has instructed BICSI accredited courses, authored various technical cabling papers, served as contributing author for a LAN design guide, and often speaks at industry conferences.
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Bethany Ollison
Architectural Sales Specialist
Euro-Wall Systems, LLC
With nearly four years of experience in the design and implementation of large moving glass wall systems, Bethany Ollison has become a trusted name in the architectural glazing industry. Known for blending innovation with practical expertise, she has collaborated with architects, developers, and contractors on both residential and commercial projects, helping to integrate cutting-edge glazing solutions that are functional, aesthetically pleasing, and performance driven.
Bethany is deeply passionate about pushing the boundaries of modern architecture. She is constantly exploring new ways to enhance the performance and design of large-scale glazing systems. Whether it's a custom installation or providing expert guidance on product specifications, she ensures every project meets the unique needs and vision of her clients.
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Mary Beth Reed, IIBEC, RRO
Building Design Manager, SE
GAF-Siplast
Mary Beth Reed is the Southeast Building Design Manager for GAF-Siplast. Having worked in commercial roofing for the past 12 years, on the contracting side prior to the manufacturing side, Mary Beth has a unique perspective balanced between building science principles and real-life applications. This, along with her extensive knowledge of roofing systems and codes, allows Mary Beth to help the specification community with building design solutions that make sense, are based on best roofing practices, and that work. Mary Beth’s passion for educating, empowering, and mentoring others is demonstrated by her activity in a number of associations including IIBEC (Education Director Florida Chapter), AIA, CSI, National Women in Roofing (Past President of NWiR South Florida), Roofing Contractors’ Association of South Florida, and as an industry representative for the Broward County Board of Rules and Appeals.
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Glenn J. Remler, CSI, ACT #1757
Senior Architectural Account Executive
Sherwin-Williams
Mr. Remler’s career in the architectural coatings industry has been ongoing since 2012. During this time, he has developed a comprehensive understanding of the AECO (architecture, engineering, construction, and owner) community, supported by in-depth product knowledge. Glenn serves the architect and design community, where he is recognized as a trusted advisor, problem-solver, and go-to expert for Sherwin-Williams' extensive range of specialized coatings and coating systems across various industries and substrates. As the senior architectural account executive, he aims to understand his client's needs and best interests to determine the most suitable specifications for each project. Throughout his tenure at Sherwin-Williams, Glenn has held positions as a residential repaint representative, sales account executive for the HOA/Condo Division, and now as the senior architectural account executive for Broward County, Palm Beach County, and the east coast of Florida. Glenn supports architects, interior designers, and specification writers by providing guide specifications and construction documents in Divisions 3, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 12.
Glenn holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the University of South Florida.He currently serves as the 2024-2025 allied board director for the AIA Palm Beach chapter. He is also the past president of the South Florida Chapter of the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) and the past president of the Southeast Region for CSI. Additionally, Glenn is a member of the International Interior Design Association (IIDA), South Florida Chapter, and the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA), South Florida Chapter.
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Ignacio Reyes, FAIA
Senior Principal and Cheif Development Officer
DLR Group
Ignacio Reyes, FAIA, is the senior principal and chief development officer for DLR Group where he leads the firm’s growth strategy through mergers, acquisitions and organic regional expansions. He joined DLR Group in 2023 and he sits on the firm's executive leadership team and helps execute major growth initiatives and ensures investments align with the business strategies. He previously led all global strategy, marketing and business development for Leo A Daly.
A graduate of Florida A & M University, he began his professional design career in 1993 and focused on higher education, cultural, hospitality and civic projects. Mr. Reyes has been published numerous times and is a recognized national speaker on topics of educational design, business management, growth, and communication. He served as 2021 President of AIA Florida and previously served as AIA Florida Vice President for Advocacy for two years. Currently, he serves on AIA National’s Strategic Council as a Member-at-Large and previously on the ArchiPac committee, while volunteering for the NEXUS mentorship program in the AIA College of Fellows. He is a member of the Design Futures Council and was recognized by the council as a Senior Design Fellow in 2020. He is a registered architect in Florida.
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Miguel A. Rodriguez, FAIA, NCARB, NOMA
Founding Principal
Rodriguez Architects, Inc.
Miguel Rodriguez, FAIA is a broadly experienced architect with over 40 years in the profession and licensed in several states. He is founding principal of Rodriguez Architects, Inc., a 10-person firm, established in 1990 and located in Coral Gables, FL.
Mr. Rodriguez is a former member of the Florida Board of Architecture and Interior Design and Currently NCARB Region 3 Director. He is a former Vice President of the American Institute of Architects and Board Member of the National Architectural Accrediting Board.
Mr. Rodriguez is a recognized expert in the American with Disabilities Act, the Florida Accessibility Code for Building Construction, and the Fair Housing Act and has provided expert advice and testimony on behalf of various clients with respect to the removal of architectural barriers. In addition to issues of accessibility, Mr. Rodriguez is also an expert on professional practice issues, standard of care issues, on the Florida Architectural Practice Act and the Florida Building Code. Mike is a former Adjunct member of the Faculty at the University of Miami, School of Architecture where he taught “Management of Professional Practice,” and “Construction Documents.”
His active involvement with professional issues over 30 years builds on his expertise and has placed Mr. Rodriguez in a position of leadership nationally and internationally. He is a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, a recognition of professional excellence which honors those architects who have made a significant contribution to architecture and society on a national level and who have achieved a standard of excellence in the profession.
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Adriana Rojas, IIDA, NCIDQ, LEED GA
Principal and Director of Interiors
HOK
Adriana is Principal and Director of Interiors of HOK’s Florida Practice which includes Tampa and Miami Studio’s. She has over 30 years of multidisciplinary and multinational experience, 28 of these have been designing projects in Florida. Adriana has a robust understanding and appreciation of the interior architecture industry. With a passion for research applied design and creative interiors, her main focus is to understand her client’s goals and focus on the human experience within a space. With diverse experience across multiple markets Adriana achieves timeless design providing long-lasting value for her clients. Adriana has been a guest speaker in industry podcasts and has also been invited to National Conferences as a presenter on Workplace and Neurodiversity topics.
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Kay Sargent, FASID, FIIDA, CID, LEED AP, MCR w, WELL AP
Director of Thought Leadership, Interiors
HOK
Kay Sargent is a practicing, licensed interior designer with 40 years of experience and serves as the director of thought leadership,Interiors at HOK, a global architectural and design firm. Based in Washington, D.C., Kay specializes in workplace strategy, design, and inclusion, working with clients to create innovative, inclusive environments that solve business challenges. She collaborates with a range of organizations, from startups to Fortune 500 companies, to optimize real estate portfolios and transform the workplace experience. Kay was recently called upon to provide Congressional testimony on federal real estate post-COVID-19 and has shared her expertise with U.S. Congressional Committees multiple times. She is a recognized thought leader in the field, particularly in designing neuroinclusion. In 2024, she was honored with a Lifetime of #HiPness Award by Interior Design Magazine and received a Best of NeoCon Gold Award and an Innovation Award for her design of the TOCCO hardware line, which promotes more welcoming, inclusive environments. Throughout her career, Kay has authored reports and conducted research on neuroinclusion in the built environment, with her work earning multiple industry accolades. She and her team at HOK continue to push boundaries in creating spaces that support diverse needs and foster collaboration and innovation.
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Jaime E. Sobrino, FAIA, PMP, LEED AP
Vice President and Director of Operations
LEO A DALY South Florida
Jaime E. Sobrino, FAIA, PMP, LEED AP, is Vice President and Director of Operations for LEO A DALY’s South Florida studios in Miami and West Palm Beach, where he leads strategic initiatives in financial management, operations, and project delivery. With 27 years of experience in the design and construction industry, Jaime has successfully guided teams in the U.S., Puerto Rico, and Latin America, driving business growth and operational excellence.
Jaime has extensive experience in firm management and operations, business development, contract negotiation, and project execution, managing multimillion-dollar initiatives in commercial, higher education, and public institutional sectors. His expertise spans budgeting, revenue forecasting, and implementing profitability strategies that strengthen firm sustainability and project success.
Jaime has served as moderator for the AIA National Strategic Council,Florida Caribbean Regional Representative, and president of AIA Puerto Rico. He is also the founder of the AIA Miami Christopher Kelley Leadership Program, a leadership development initiative for emerging professionals. His contributions to the industry have been recognized with prestigious honors, including elevation to the AIA College of Fellows, the AIA Florida Anthony L. Pullara Individual Honor Award,and the AIA Miami H. Samuel Kruse Silver Medal Award for Service.
Jaime holds aBachelor’s in Architecture from Cornell Universityand is a licensed architect in Florida and Puerto Rico.
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Lourdes Solera, FAIA, RID, NOMA, LEED AP
Principal
MCHarry & Associates
Lourdes Solera, a managing principal at MCHarry and Associates, leads the legacy of the esteemed 68-year-old architectural firm specializing in public sector projects. With over 30 years of architectural expertise, Ms. Solera is dedicated to public service and advancing the architectural profession. A prominent figure in the American Institute of Architects (AIA), Ms. Solera served as AIA Miami's 2004 President, Director at the Florida AIA Board, and the 2022 President of the Florida AIA Board. Her commitment to public service and historic preservation is evident through roles on the City of Miami Historic and Environmental Preservation Board and Florida’s Board of Architects and Interior Design and tour guide and board member of the Miami Design Preservation League for many years. Ms. Solera co-founded the Women in Architecture Committee at AIA Miami, highlighting women's significant contributions and established a Women in Architecture Committee at AIA Florida to nurture the next generation.
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Natividad “Nati” Soto, FAIA, LEED AP BD+C
President
Ferguson Glasgow Schuster Soto, Inc.
Natividad “Nati” Soto, FAIA, LEED AP BD+C is a Florida registered architect and interior designer. As President of Ferguson Glasgow Schuster Soto, Inc. she leads the Firm’s practice in health care, parks & recreation, libraries, and other institutional works with designs that reflect the client’s unique identities and withstand the test of time.
For over 40 years Nati has served on AIA local, state and national components, including 2022-2023 College of Fellows Regional Representative, AIA Florida 2019 President and 2020 Strategic Council Chair, founding Board member and President of AIA Miami Center for Architecture & Design, co-founder of AIA Miami’s Women in Architecture Committee, 2013 AIA Florida’s Women in Architecture Task Force Chair, FAPAC Board Member/2015 Chair, AIA Miami 2009 President, 2013-14 AIA Diversity Council/2014 Women’s National Network Chair, and many other activities recognized in her elevation to AIA Fellowship in 2015.
Nati is a visiting lecturer and involved alumnus of the University of Miami School of Architecture, where her Firm established a scholarship that benefits African-American architecture students.
Nati is passionate about architecture, mentorship, advocacy, diversity/equity/inclusion, and resilient communities, and is professionally and personally dedicated to leading efforts that result in positive outcomes for all.
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Kaden Stinger
Architectural Engagement Specialist
Special-Lite, Inc.
Residing in the picturesque town of Polson, Montana, Kaden Stinger is a highly skilled and accomplished professional in the construction and building materials industry. With a deep understanding of the intricacies of construction, along with extensive experience in sales, marketing strategy, and relationship building, Kaden has developed a distinctive and effective approach to public speaking. He seamlessly integrates his technical expertise and industry knowledge with an enthusiastic and engaging presentation style that captivates audiences of all backgrounds.
Outside of his professional responsibilities and travel commitments, Kaden values spending quality time with his family and immerses himself in the adrenaline-pumping world of auto racing. His diverse interests and dynamic personality allow him to bring a unique blend of energy, charisma, and enthusiasm to every presentation. Whether addressing industry professionals or engaging with community members, Kaden Stinger exemplifies a passion for his craft.
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Anson Stuart, AIA, NOMA, NCARB, PMP
Founder, Principal
Stuart Architecture
Mr. Stuart has over 25 years of combined experience in architectural design and construction project management. His extensive experience includes many different project types including commercial, educational, religious, multi-family residential, instututional, community, recreational, retail, hospitality and industrial.
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Will Swearingen
Principal
Zweig Group
Will Swearingen is a Principal at Zweig Group, where he leads the firm's ownership transition consulting division. With over a decade of experience, Will is a recognized subject matter expert in ownership transition planning and execution. His unique expertise lies in his profound ability to leverage comprehensive industry data from Zweig Group, encompassing valuation, operations, profitability metrics, employee sentiments, and more, to inform and optimize transition strategies.
Will's extensive tenure at Zweig Group has ingrained in him a deep understanding of industry trends and insights. Leveraging this valuable depth of knowledge, Will works with management teams all across the US to develop ownership transition plans that range from straightforward one-to-one transactions to intricate projects requiring sophisticated modeling and stakeholder education. He ensures that his clients are equipped with the critical data necessary to lead successful firms. From creating benchmarking tools to designing compensation programs for transition planning, Will builds invaluable resources for decision-makers.
Beyond his consulting work, Will is a sought-after public speaker and thought leader on topics such as ownership transition, fee and billing trends, and mergers and acquisitions within the AEC industry. Coming from a lineage of architects, Will possesses an unparalleled passion for the AEC industry. Will's dedication to the AEC industry and his ability to translate complex data into actionable strategies make him an invaluable resource for firm owners navigating the complexities of ownership transition.
When he's not shaping the future of AEC firms, Will cherishes quality time with his wonderful wife, Melisa, and their two sons, Lucas (7) and Charlie (5). You might run into the whole family on the wonderful Bentonville bike trails!
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Seth Yeslow, AIA, NCARB
Architect
Steven L. Cohen & Associates
Mr. Yeslow has 24 years of experience in the architecture and construction management profession with experience in a wide range of projects ranging from commercial, retail, mixed-use, residential, hospitality, educational, medical and government facilities. He possesses proficiency in designing and managing projects with multiple programs throughout all phases of the design and construction process.
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Don Yoshino, FAIA
Principal
Yoshino Architecture, PA
Don Yoshino, FAIA is principal of Yoshino Architecture, PA, located in Boca Raton, Florida. Since his graduation from CalPoly in 1965, he has embarked on a career with an international focus. Beginning with a graduate program at Kyoto University in Japan, where he studied Japanese architectural history, Yoshino later remained in Japan as project manager and then as vice president-in-charge of the international division at several large international firms where he worked on projects for the U.S. government and the private sector in Asia. He then returned to the US to apprentice under world renowned Italian architect and visionary, Paolo Soleri in Scottsdale, Arizona at Arcosanti. Yoshino’s portfolio comprises all facets of architecture from industrial to residential, with some of his most notable projects including an award-winning 23-story luxury condo in Fort Lauderdale, several high-end, single-family homes in South Florida, as well as hotel design in Spain and India.
Yoshino began his engagement in the American Institute of Architects in 1971 as a member, and served in numerous leadership positions at the local, state, and national levels and was elevated to the College of Fellows in 2007. Yoshino received his Fellowship (the highest level of recognition by the Association) in the category of Service to Society, for his leadership within the association and for his service to his community, most notably, as trustee and former BOT President of The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, where he continued his efforts to bridge the gap of understanding between Japan and America; and assisted in the seven-year development of the award winning Harriet & George Cornell “Rojien Gardens”. Recently Yoshino traveled to Tokyo, Japan with students from FIU study aboard program and assisted in the 4th year design project for the Morikami Museum. In 2017, Yoshino was conferred the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays medal from the Foreign Ministry of Japan for his continuous work in bridging the culture between Japan and the United States.
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