How can we thoughtfully integrate AI into the architecture practice and collaboratively shape a sustainable and innovative future for all?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we explore the work of the Built Environment Futures Council (BEFC) and its mission to thoughtfully integrate artificial intelligence into architecture and infrastructure. We are joined by key members of the BEFC – co-founders Randy Deutsch and Matthew Krissel, along with committee member Amanda Nicole Bridges. Today, they discuss the power and potential of AI in architecture, its impact on industry practices, and the ethics of integrating it into the daily workflow.

First, Randy and Matthew share how BEFC started and explain how their vision attracted diverse experts from various backgrounds to form a national council.

Then, the panel discusses how architects can embrace AI as a tool for positive change while learning from past trends and highlights the value of diverse perspectives for the future of architecture and design. We also touch on the ever-evolving role of architects, share advice on efficiently using the extra time freed by AI, and present ways to promote collaboration across industries.

If some of what architects currently do can be done through technology, I don't see that as a full job replacement. To me, it's really exciting to think about more people having access to architects. If we don't have as large of a scope of work on every project, and our role is really specifically targeted towards helping clients ask the right questions, then it actually frees us up to work with more clients. It could lower the bar of entry to something that's more affordable and readily available for more people. I don't see how that is a hindrance. I see that as a great aspect that could lead us to live in a better design world. - Amanda Nicole Bridges

To wrap up the conversation, the group shares what the future holds for BEFC, such as exploring various funding streams and unique engagement strategies. They also encourage you to get further involved with the expansion of AI in the field and explain how you could work with BEFC in the future.

Tune in next week for an episode about using research to tell the story of architecture.

Guests:

Matthew Krissel FAIA

Matthew is a fellow of the American Institute of Architects and founder and director of Creative Lab 3, design-driven architecture practice working to bring exceptional design to more people and places, inspire change, and transform our collective future.

Amanda Nicole Bridges, AIA, NOMA, LEED AP

Amanda N Bridges is a licensed architect and educator in San Francisco. She is currently a Senior Architect at Siol Studios, an integrated architecture, interiors, and landscape design practice, and an Adjunct Lecturer at Stanford University and the University of California Berkeley teaching architecture studio.

Randy Deutsch FAIA

For over thirty years, Randy Deutsch FAIA has been an architect and educator, and in recent years, an author, international keynote speaker, and AI researcher. As a licensed architect, Randy designed over 100 large, complex sustainable projects for which he received the AIA Young Architect Award Chicago.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Matthew on LinkedIn

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How can we bridge the gender technology gap and ensure ethical development of AI while empowering women and non-binary individuals in STEAM fields?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, Evelyn welcomes Helen Lee Kupp and Nichole Sterling, the co-founders of the Women Defining AI community, to the show. Helen and Nichole are dedicated to bridging the gender technology gap and advocating for ethical AI development by merging their tech expertise. They are on a mission to empower women and reshape the narrative around AI to promote an inclusive technological future.

First, we dive into the beginning of Women Defining AI, which sprouted from their shared passion for accessible AI knowledge. They highlight how their work extends beyond online platforms through a successful in-person event emphasizing the importance of fostering community. Helen and Nichole explore the gender tech gap, especially in STEAM industries, and why women need to be involved in the development of AI. They discuss the importance of understanding the language of AI for the workplace and in daily life and experimenting with its applications.

Then, they share tips for optimizing AI models, like asking follow-up questions and training them to perform exactly how you want. They also touch on data privacy concerns behind AI, regulatory protocols, the emergence of new job roles in the future of the AI era, and how to leverage human jobs with AI jobs.

It's important that women stay close to AI. When following the developments, we're starting to see different behaviors from workplaces. More workplaces are looking for AI fluency and AI skills. So, there's already a gender gap, right? Just from a STEM perspective. But if now workforces are and workplaces are looking for AI fluency and their skill sets, women are just going to continue to fall behind. - Nichole Sterling

To wrap up the conversation, Helen and Nichole share their perspective on the often hostile mindset architects have surrounding AI and the undeniable fundamental changes AI has on the industry paradigm. They also emphasize the importance of learning and absorbing the model despite initial resistance.

Tune in next week for a special panel discussion on the Built Environment Futures Council and the integration of artificial intelligence into architecture and construction.

Guests:

Helen Lee Kupp

Helen Lee Kupp is the co-founder and creator of Women Defining AI, a community of female leaders tackling the biggest topics of understanding today’s generative AI widespread adoption through experimentation, support, and community learning. She takes a practical approach towards helping leaders navigate the biggest changes in work — both from AI/technology, and the flexible/hybrid work revolution. She is the co-author of WSJ Bestselling book “How The Future Works: Leading Flexible Teams to Do the Best Work of Their Lives”. She believes in closing the gender technology gap - starting with women at work - to create a future of work that looks and feels fundamentally different for her two kids and the women she mentors. We can & should do better.

Nichole Sterling

Nichole Sterling, co-founder of Women Defining AI, has always been a utility leader blending strategy, marketing, HR, and finance in tech industries. Her impact on company success ranges from returning $4M YOY to field operations teams through corporate learning initiatives, increasing sales pipeline activities by 10 - 30x by establishing a RevOps philosophy, and even driving innovation within local municipal government. Nichole's current focus is on developing AI technologies, leading a stealth company specializing in digital twins and AI agents. A fervent advocate for women in tech, Nichole combines her passion for AI with a commitment to ethical and...

How can organizations use data to enhance the employee experience and drive positive cultural change within their workplace?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, Dr. Serena Huang, a data analytics executive in Fintech, joins us to discuss how organizations can optimize the employee experience by leveraging data and communication strategies in the workplace. As a data analytics executive, Dr. Huang is passionate about leading change, building high-performance teams, and helping business leaders see data as an asset in large organizations.

First, Dr. Huang defines the employee experience as various aspects of work, from physical environments to manager interactions and digital work capabilities. She emphasizes the importance of measuring employee experience beyond physical space and attendance and suggests surveys and feedback tools to gauge workplace culture and gather recommendations.

Then, we explore the challenges and apprehensions that can arise when introducing survey data to the workplace, including concerns about legal action and the fear of uncovering uncomfortable truths. For architects, we address the common fear about not being able to afford an immediate solution for desires such as taking time off. Dr. Huang shares advice for effectively communicating with architecture leaders who are reluctant to engage in surveys due to these fears, yet recognize their need for growth. She believes leadership needs timely action, collaborative problem-solving, and transparency to drive change.

It comes down to communication. Fundamentally, as humans, we all need to be heard, whether at home, in a relationship, or at work. For employees to feel heard, instead of ignoring the elephant in the room, why don't we ask about it and then come up with some solutions? It may not be the perfect solution, but I think the leadership team should come from a place of genuine care, communicate that back to the employees and say, "We heard you." - Dr. Serena Huang

To wrap up the conversation, Dr. Huang shares her perspective on employees and leaders navigating their career alongside their mental health management. She advocates for leadership therapy and coaching sessions to enhance self-awareness and emotional well-being.

Tune in next week for an episode about women defining AI for architects.

Guest:

Dr. Serena Huang

Dr. Serena Huang is an accomplished thought leader and professional keynote speaker with 150+ speaking engagements covering topics including people analytics, AI, future of work, personal branding, and data storytelling. She regularly guest-lectures at top MBA programs including Kellogg, Wharton, and Haas. Dr. Huang's unique ability to speak to audiences of different cultures and backgrounds, along with her experience in both F100 and startups make her an in-demand speaker. Her 2024 focus is helping organizations realize the full potential of AI through creating a new workforce strategy and improving internal talent mobility.

Prior to founding Data With Serena, Dr. Huang led sizable analytics teams at prominent organizations including PayPal, Kraft Heinz, GE, and Koch Industries. She pioneered the applications of machine learning algorithms to predict absenteeism and turnover and led corporate councils for Ethical AI in these global organizations. Dr. Huang holds a Ph.D. in Economics with specializations in Econometrics and Labor Economics.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Dr. Huang on LinkedIn