by Cody Carpino, AIA, Emerging Professionals Director
What is the definition of Grassroots? If you picture a lawn, there is a whole system of roots below ground supporting the visible green sod. The green blades emerge from the support of the network below. Similarly in life, business, and the AIA, there is a network of team members supporting leaders.
AIA Grassroots is an annual event for its leaders with this year’s theme being ‘Leading Through Influence’. Attended by hundreds from North America, topics and workshops are designed to help component officers become more effective chapter and civic leaders as well as to better serve their communities and the architecture profession. I recently attended the event in San Diego March 12-15th with Vice President Geneveive Vargas, AIA and Executive Director, Kimberly Anderson.
Over my 17 year career, I often get the question: ‘Why should I be an AIA member and what is the organization doing for me?” And here’s what I say: “The AIA holds countless workshops, community events, inter-association activities, and has a vast network of construction related partners. It provides mentorship opportunities to emerging professionals, supports local non-profits, educates students interested in architecture, and is an advocate for design in the region.”
As a member of the AIACV Board this year, I was eager to be inspired and enlightened by other AIA leaders from around the United States. It was rewarding to hear what other boards strive for and how they interact with their communities.
A few of my key takeaways were:
1) Good communication begins with good listening
2) Be true to who you are
3) It is our responsibility to design buildings that outlive us, are positively impactful to the
environment, and leave a legacy for generations to come
4) Stand for something special and be memorable
5) The risk of trying something new far outweighs the simplicity of sticking with what
works
6) See it when you believe it
The Chapter also received a Component Excellence Award for Community Outreach for our Emerging Professionals Design Competition / Winn Park. Our Associate Director, Kevin Young flew down to accept the award with the team. It was a great honor to be recognized.
Please advocate for the AIA and I look forward to seeing you at the next event!