Speed Mentoring
2025-09-03 17:30 - 19:30 (America/Chicago) | TX
Modeled after speed dating, speed mentoring focuses on a quick exchange of information in the form of small group discussions on goals and professional challenges. It’s an efficient way to rapidly build your professional network, and share successful ways to excel in the design profession. Who knows you might just find someone that is a good fit for an on-going mentor relationship!

Date: Wednesday, September 3
Location: Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce, Houston, TX
General Admission: $10, $5 for students (Advanced registration is required)

Schedule:

5:30pm Networking
6:00pm-7:30pm Speed Mentoring Sessions

Mentors:

Sheryl Kolasinski, FAIA, Non-Profit Cultural Leader & Artist
Clarissa Foster, Turner Construction Company
Amaya Labrador, AIA, human eXperience
Claudia Barreda, AIA, Laura U Design Collective
Jamila Jawdat, AIA, HKS
Nicole Hernandez-Barrios, AIA, Stantec
Linda Porras-Pirtle, AIA, Secretariat
Elizabeth Gilbert, PLA, Clark Condon
Arlis Brodie, Telios
Jody Sergi, AIA, Kirksey Architecture

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR!

It Takes A Village Commons
2025-11-07 13:00 - 15:00 | Doshi House, 3419 Emancipation Ave, Houston, TX, 77004, United States
Building a village starts with connection. Join the AIA Houston Women in Architecture and Houston NOMA for It Takes a Village Commons; a meet up for parents, caregivers, and community members to gather, share and support one another.
Inspired by the idea of “the Commons”, the shared cultural and natural spaces where stories are exchanged, challenges are voiced, and relationships are built, this gathering offers space to connect over life, work, and caregiving.
Come meet fellow caregivers, talk honestly about the juggle of career and care, and help build our Village.

WiA End of Year Celebration + Scholarship Reception
2025-12-04 17:30 - 19:30 | Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce St., Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Join us for the WiA End of Year Celebration + Scholarship Reception on December 4, at 5:30pm.
Free & Open to Everyone

AIA Houston Women in Architecture is excited to announce the second year of our annual scholarship opportunities! These awards are funded through the generous support of our Education and Outreach programs as well as our tax-deductible WiA Professional Development Fund.
This newly established fund supports WiA’s grant and scholarship initiatives, championing the advancement of women in the architecture, design and construction industries of Southeast Texas.
CLICK HERE IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE FUND

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!
GOLD Sponsor

SILVER Sponsor

Equity Series Workshop
2026-03-05 17:30 - 20:00 | Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce St., Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Join us for a group discussion on supporting health at work, led by Carrie Hirdes, followed by a session of desk-format meditation and sound healing by local yogi Lesley Monroy
Women’s health challenges are often treated as private issues, limiting transparency, empathy, and meaningful support. The 2026 Equity Series brings these experiences to the forefront to highlight how individuals and leaders can reshape workplaces to better reflect the realities of women’s lives.
This workshop aims to help participants in grounding their lived experiences within the broader context of workplace wellbeing and equipping attendees with practices that provide relief during times of high-stress.
Part I
Chaplain Carrie Hirdes (Memorial Hermann Hospital) will lead participants to discuss current hot topics such as burnout, unconscious biases, and the responsibilities businesses and leaders have to the health of their employees. In addition, the group will discuss their individual perspectives and what responsibilities we have to ourselves to maintain personal health and goals.
Part II
Lesley Monroy will guide participants through one hour of a combination of sound healing and meditation that focuses on personal reflection. This session will be a “desk-format” meditation that provides an avenue to acknowledge anxiety and reduce mental noise in a proactive way.

LESLEY MONROY – Yoga Teacher

Yoga has been an integral part of my life for over two decades, and as I transitioned from practitioner to instructor over the past six years, I have maintained my commitment as a lifelong student of this discipline. I am grateful to hold three yoga certifications and am eagerly pursuing further education to enhance my ability to serve you better. My approach is centered on fostering deep, trusting relationships with my students, providing a safe space where transformation can occur. This trust enables us to explore the physical and emotional benefits of yoga together, helping each individual feel more connected, loved, and grounded.
Outside of the studio, my life is joyfully simple, shared with my husband and three beloved pets. I am an avid camper and an enthusiastic plant caretaker, with aspirations to explore all of America’s national parks.
AIA Credit: 2.0 LU

Online registration closes Wednesday, March 4, end of day
A minimum of 3 days’ notice is required to receive a full refund if you need to cancel your reservation. Registration is transferable.
Space is limited

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!
Equity Panel Discussion & Workshop

Interested in Sponsorship?
Please consider becoming a sponsor of the Equity Series Panel Discussion & Workshop. A portion of the proceeds from this event will be donated to Architecture Center Houston’s Women in Architecture Professional Development Fund. This newly established fund supports WiA’s grant and scholarship initiatives, championing the advancement of women in the architecture, design and construction industries of Southeast Texas. Click here for more information.

Equity Series Panel Discussion
2026-03-06 17:30 - 20:30 | DeLUXE Theater, 3303 Lyons Ave, Houston, 77020, United States
The AIA Houston Women in Architecture Committee is pleased to announce the ninth annual Equity Series, What We Carry: Unspoken Paths to Workplace Well-being.
Women’s health challenges are often treated as private issues, limiting transparency, empathy, and meaningful support. The 2026 Equity Series brings these experiences to the forefront to highlight how individuals and leaders can reshape workplaces to better reflect the realities of women’s lives.
This panel will explore how open dialogue and equity-driven support systems can foster environments where women feel valued and supported at every stage of their careers. Through personal agency as well as intentional leadership, we aim to identify actionable changes in pursuit of a more equitable practice.
Panelists

Juliet Serem-Kiboma, AIA, NOMA, Founder and Principal Architect at Studio Boma
Mahe Hameed, AIA, Senior Associate at Huitt-Zollars
Nicola Springer, AIA, LEED AP, Partner & Managing Director, Pk-12 Practice at Kirksey Architecture
Samantha Holy, SPHR, Chief Human Resources Officer at LEO A DALY

Moderator

Carrie Hirdes, Chaplain, Memorial Hermann Memorial City Medical Center

AIA Credit: 1.5 LU

Doors Open: 5:30pm
Panel Discussion: 6:00pm-7:30pm
Social: 7:30pm-8:30pm

Online registration closes Wednesday, March 4, end of day
Onsite registration is available
A minimum of 3 days’ notice is required to receive a full refund if you need to cancel your reservation. Registration is transferable.
Space is limited

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!
Equity Panel Discussion & Workshop

Parity Sponsor

Inclusivity Sponsor

Interested in Sponsorship?
Please consider becoming a sponsor of the Equity Series Panel Discussion & Workshop. A portion of the proceeds from this event will be donated to Architecture Center Houston’s Women in Architecture Professional Development Fund. This newly established fund supports WiA’s grant and scholarship initiatives, championing the advancement of women in the architecture, design and construction industries of Southeast Texas. Click here for more information.

It Takes A Village
2026-03-26 17:30 - 19:30 | Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce St., Houston, TX, 77002, United States
As many parents and caregivers will attest, “it takes a village” to raise children – and for many aspiring architects, the same is true when preparing for licensure exams. AIAH Women in Architecture (WiA) committee and HNOMA are joining forces to build a community tailored for parents and caregivers in the industry who are navigating the challenges of licensure preparation.
We want to hear from you!
Join us for an Open Forum where we’ll discuss your needs, challenges, and ideas for the kind of resources and support that would make a real difference.
Please RSVP: In-Person Forum – Thursday, March 26th from 5:30-7:30p

Whether you’re just starting the process or already deep into studying, your voice is important. Let’s build this village – together.

2026 Tee Up for Success
2026-05-07 17:30 - 20:30 | East River 9, 65 Hirsch Rd, Houston, TX, 77020, United States
Join us for a co-ed summer evening of all-levels golf clinic and networking benefitting the Women in Architecture Professional Development Fund. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a complete novice, this event promises to advance your swing, your network and support women in AEC.
Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your game, your network, and women in architecture. Whether you’re making a hole-in-one or meaningful connections, your participation will make a difference.

Registration Options:
Standard admission $95:

30 minutes golf clinic session working with pro golfers
unlimited balls on the driving range and putting green; club provided
networking
2 drink tickets, heavy apps, and 1 raffle ticket

Networking Admission $75

Includes 2 drink tickets, heavy apps, and 1 raffle ticket
Excludes clinics and putting green

Advanced registration required. Onsite registration is not available.
Registration closes Thursday, April 30th at 4pm
Cancellation Policy: A minimum of 7 days’ notice is required to receive a full refund

Sponsorship Opportunities:
Please consider becoming a sponsor of the Tee Up for Success: WiA’s Professional Development Fundraiser. A portion of the proceeds from this event will be donated to Architecture Center Houston’s Women in Architecture Professional Development Fund. This newly established fund supports WiA’s grant and scholarship initiatives, championing the advancement of women in the architecture, design and construction industries of Southeast Texas. Click here for more information.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!
Gold

Silver

Navigating the Ropes: Syncing Skills and Strategy
2026-07-23 17:30 - 19:30 | Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce St., Houston, TX, 77002, United States
AIA Houston Emerging Professionals and Women in Architecture committees are partnering for an exciting mentorship event for young professionals in the AEC community. Join us for a panel with speakers from the industry with insight into early career experience and guidance on designing career paths.

2026 – Navigating the Ropes: Syncing Skills and Strategy
As you build your career in architecture, you’ll pick up skills, shift roles, and pursue credentials; slowly shaping the kind of professional you want to be. But growth takes more than technical expertise. It’s developed over time, through trial, feedback, and the occasional wrong turn; it takes intention.
This panel explores how to build that skill set on purpose. Through personal experience and practical advice, panelists will share how they defined their goals, advocated for themselves, and grew from where they started to where they are now.
Whether you’re weighing your next role or setting up your career, this session offers practical insight for growing both personally and professionally.
We can’t wait to see you there!
Panelists:

Michael Gonzales, AIA – Protolab
Catherine Callaway, AIA, LFA, LEED AP – Kirksey Architecture
Emily Winters, AIA, LEED GA – DLR Group
John Clegg, AIA – Stantec

Moderator:

Stephanie Pedigo, AIA, LEED AP – GSMArchitects

Time:

5:30pm, Networking
6:00-7:30 Program

Cost:

$10 General Admission
$5 Student

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR!

Everyday Self-Defense: Building Confidence Through Boundaries & De-escalation
2026-08-13 17:00 - 20:00 | Third Ward Jiu-Jitsu, 2016 Emancipation Ave, Houston, TX, 77003, United States
In this self-defense session, the instructor, Sarah Degar, Jiu Jitsu black belt, and architect at GSMA, will share her unique approach to personal safety, focusing on two key objectives: setting boundaries and de-escalating potential uncomfortable situations. After demonstrating key techniques, attendees will partner up to practice, with the instructor offering guidance to each group.
The first part of the session will teach participants how to navigate unwanted physical contact in everyday situations, particularly with people they know. In professional and social contexts, it can be challenging to assert boundaries—especially for many women who already worry about being perceived as “unreasonable.” The instructor will address simple strategies to divert this contact to maintain comfort and autonomy. For example, a colleague approaches for a hug or puts an arm around the waist to pose for a photo. Attendees will be empowered to practice subtle yet effective ways to establish personal space without confrontation.
The second part of the session will address more serious scenarios, where the potential for physical harm exists. Whether the concern comes from someone familiar or not, de-escalation is crucial. Participants will learn techniques to create and maintain a safe distance, keep a steady stance to avoid being easily pushed or pulled, and how to break free from various types of holds. The session will wrap up with interactive games designed to reinforce the skills learned, making it fun and memorable while encouraging participants to continue practicing on their own.

Doors Open 5p
Class 5:30p – 6:30p
Social to follow

Advanced Registration Required.
Registration closes Thursday at 2pm.

Women in Architecture’s Professional Development Fund Q&A
2026-09-09 12:30 - 13:00 | https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82247850007?pwd=[REDACTED]
Join us for a virtual Q&A session about Women in Architecture’s Professional Development Fund application process. We’ll cover the ins and outs of applications for the Licensure Scholarship and Professional Development Grant, then open the floor to questions.
The application will open September 1st.

Zoom login link:
AIA Houston is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: WiA PD Fund Q&A
Time: Sep 9, 2026 12:30 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82247850007?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 822 4785 0007
Passcode: [REDACTED]
