The DESIGN track of seminars will focus on new, award-winning and legacy design projects executed by our members and other local professionals that express innovative design strategies in sustainability, material usage and/or technical expertise that was used in an innovative manner. Projects that have had a positive impact on the community that they serve should, along with LEED, BREEAM, Living Building Challenge and WELLS buildings will be considered a part of this track.

The TECHNICAL track of seminars will focus on new products and design techniques. Introduction and review of technical skills, materials, and systems that span all skill levels from an introductory level to advanced.

The COMMUNITY & JUSTICE track will focus on public and civic projects that benefit communities through social and environmental justice and social responsibility. Topics that are tailored towards housing discrimination, education, home equity, environmental justice, sustainable design, etc. will be considered. This track shall also include presentations related to service through programs and activities designed to support communities and the architectural profession.

The BUSINESS track of seminars will be geared toward marketing, firm growth, investing in the future and succession planning. Seminars that discuss access to capital, recruitment strategies, purchasing, and policies that positively impact people working in the built environment.

Jazz, sports, and BBQ – is that all Kansas City has to offer? This track explores the unsung stories of Kansas City, focusing on its history of redlining and systemic exclusion while also examining the ongoing journey towards coalitional power and collective liberation. Presenters are encouraged to critically examine the contrast between Kansas City’s celebrated identity and the lived experiences of those who are shaping its evolving future. How can we embrace rapid development while centering our most vulnerable communities?

The TOURS track offers an immersive exploration of the host city’s architectural and cultural landscape through curated offsite visits to noteworthy design projects, historic buildings, and significant sites. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with spaces that highlight innovative design approaches, celebrate local history, and reflect the city’s unique cultural identity. These guided tours provide an in-depth understanding of the interplay between architecture, urban development, and community impact, offering valuable insights into the design strategies that shape the built environment.