This week, I have the privilege of conversing with Lakisha Ann Woods, CAE, the Chief Executive Officer of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) which is a dynamic network of more than 96,000 architects and design professionals throughout 200 chapters committed to enhancing the built environment.

Woods previously served as President & CEO of the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) where she led efforts to expand the organization’s programs and markets while growing and strengthening its membership base.

Prior to joining NIBS, she was the Sr. VP & Chief Marketing Officer at the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), where her team was responsible for all marketing and revenue-generating programs – including marketing the International Builders Show, sponsorship sales and partnerships with major national companies.

Woods is the author of the book "Never Get Their Coffee: Empowering Fearless Leadership" and currently serves as Chair of the Board for the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE). She also currently serves on the Board of Visitors for the University of Maryland School of Architecture, previously served as Vice Chair of the U.S. Green Building Council Board of Directors and is a global speaker. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maryland in College Park and lives with her husband and daughter in Howard County, Maryland.

Lakisha's involvement and dedication to serving and advocating for the built environment and its professionals is admirable. Stop by the show notes to read her full bio including various organizations she has held or holds leadership roles in. 

Being on the board of AIA Atlanta, I’ve had the chance to learn and experience the impact this organization has on members and the profession as a whole. So, having a conversation with Lakisha Woods about some of the work AIA is doing to enhance the value of our profession was inspiring! As always, I hope you enjoy

Link to AIA National Website: https://www.aia.org/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=search&utm_campaign=aiamem-search&gclid=CjwKCAjwiOCgBhAgEiwAjv5whLIZmWcPOfrdpkEb8441iheHyf-4ky6EdbYMNqKkStlWY-fOnqVLrBoCJ7oQAvD_BwE

Link to America By Design: https://www.bydesign.global/americabydesign/architecture/architecture-episodes

This episode is brought to you by American Metalcraft, Inc: https://americanmetalcraft.com/