What causes moments of insight? When do you feel most “in the zone”? As creative professionals, we strive to learn from each other and glean inspiration from those truly operating outside of the box.

The Association for Women in Architecture + Design brings together five cutting-edge design thinkers practicing in Southern California. Their work is progressive, interdisciplinary, and often revolutionary. Please join us as they share their stories at this celebratory symposium.

On Monday, May 20, we will discuss what we as a group (Salon, AWA +D) and individuals can do to assist young women coming up in the profession.

The AWAF Scholarship Event will allow AWA+D and AWAF members an inside look at the Cuningham Group’s new Culver City office space (see photos here), and feature presentations by this year’s scholarship recipients.

AWA+D recommends the Q2 Women in Green Power Breakfast, featuring a stellar panel of women leaders.

It seems that more and more firms are migrating to Revit, and attempting to assemble project design teams that are knowledgeable about BIM. What does all this mean and how to fit in with this new process? Meet with Revit and BIM consulting specialists to learn a little bit about what Revit and BIM have to offer through an afternoon of quick question and answer discussions, along with a few software demonstrations, and some role playing. We will explore misconceptions, nagging notions, and expectations about software, changing mindset, and BIM processes. The afternoon will include a mapping of BIM roles to identify opportunities that this trending process presents to architects and designers.

Topic: Women in Architecture: How are we doing?

Learn how to best represent your work in this hands-on workshop with accomplished architectural photographer, Tracey Landworth. We will meet in Studio City at a home designed by Nora Sarkissian (Design Director of Zakian.Woo Architects). Participants should bring a camera, a tripod, a small level, a notebook, and lots of energy!

Wondering how your school projects translate in the working world, trying to figure out how to move beyond the first interview, or considering a career move? With Stand Out from the Crowd II, AWA+D creates the opportunity to meet one-on-one with architects, designers, and marketing professionals currently practicing at top firms in LA. Designed as a series of one-on-one reviews and larger group discussions, attendees will gain tips on crafting resumes, updating portfolios, and honing presentation skills.

Join us for a happy hour visit to Studio Argente in Hermosa Beach where AWA+D member and Studio Argente Principal, Farnaz Reneker, AIA will present her work. Looking forward to a lively discussion!

Topic: Creative Women as Leaders

Do you have ideas for AWA+D programs in 2013? Or would you like to help organize lectures, home tours, round table discussions, or social events already in the works? If so, please join us!

Come hear about what’s new with RaiLA including a very exciting announcement and ways you can play a significant role! RailLA is a coalition of professionals, citizens, business leaders, and artists organized to advocate, serve, and inform communities and other stakeholders impacted as fast trains become a reality and transform the way we work and live. More information can be found on the RailLA website.

You’re invited to join AWA+D in previewing Mia Lehrer’s landscape design for the Natural History Museum – North Campus, led by Project Manager Michelle Sullivan of MLA! Slated to open to the public in June 2013, AWA+D has been offered exclusive access to the project currently under construction.

As more women move into leadership and management positions, the Society for Marketing Professional Services, Los Angeles has invited a group of respected women leaders for a panel discussion. The event will focus on a variety of topics including career path options, skill sets and training received, and the issue of work/life balance. Panelists will highlight their unique career stories, how individuals and mentors supported their efforts along the way, and how they grew their leadership skills within the A/E/C industry.

What is the existing role of the architect in the process and what should it be?
How has the architect’s role diminished, and how can we expand or re-imagine that role?
How can we rebuild the reputation of the architect as a leader of the process and primary owner’s representative?

Do you have ideas for AWA+D programs in 2013? Or would you like to help organize lectures, home tours, round table discussions, or social events already in the works? If so, please join us for a brainstorming session to kick off the new year!