The Women in Architecture Committee provides networking and mentorship opportunities to help women advance in the profession and advance change in the culture of architecture and design. We celebrate the past and present contributions of women in the profession and help build the skills that will support a more equitable and empowered future for everyone in the design community.
AIA Members, design professionals, allied industry partners, and architecture students are welcome to join us at any time during the year – as committee members or for specific events! Reach out to co-chairs or staff for more information.
Committee meetings and socials are structured to intentionally grow connections and foster mentorship among and in support of women in architecture.
Grow skills and knowledge to support your career, informed by women in the profession. Committee members develop skill-building opportunities held in conjunction with committee meetings, as well as CE programs proposed for the AIA MN Annual Conference.
Since its inception, Committee members have conducted primary and secondary research on the state of women in the profession, and proven ways to address the unique challenges women face in achieving licensure, design lead roles, and firm leadership.
WIA Committee member recommendations for books, articles, documentaries, and podcasts relevant to the lives and careers of women in architecture.
Podcast
Architect Katie Kangas shares stories and conversations with many MN-based entrepreneur architects who utilize unique marketing strategies and business structures in their solo and small firms.
Film
An FAIA Legacy Project film featuring Julie Snow, FAIA, founder of Snow Kreilich Architects and AIA MN Gold Medal winner.
Podcast / Article
In her conversation with Amy Stone, Renée shares her unique career journey, shaped by family values and artistic influences, and her transition into the world of architecture, emphasizing the transformative impact of teaching and mentorship.
Book
by Jennifer Yoos, FAIA and Vincent James, FAIA - Parallel Cities examines the history of the multilevel city with a focus on elevated pedestrian systems as a recurrent concept in urban planning and design.
Best Practices
Based on research conducted in large part at the University of Minnesota by Renee Cheng, FAIA, the guides support individuals and firms in addressing bias in the profession.
Research
The definitive research report measuring bias in the profession of architecture. Research ed by Joan C. Williams of the Center for WorkLife Law and funded by AIA national.
In 2018, AIA Minnesota’s Women in Architecture Committee (WIA) began the FAIA Legacy Project. This project amplifies the achievements of our women fellows by documenting the stories of the Minnesota women architects recognized with the AIA’s highest membership honor through documentary shorts focused on women who have achieved Fellowship in the AIA (the FAIA designation). Premieres are shown at the AIA MN Annual Conference each year.
Learn about the Legacy Project
AIA Minnesota and AIA national offer a variety of events and supports focused on supporting women’s career success.
Event
AIA national's premier event focused on women in the profession. Delegations from MN regularly attend.
Funding
The Minnesota Architectural Foundation (MAF) provides scholarships to cover a significant portion of the costs of attending WLS.
Funding
The MAF's WIA Fund grants further the success of women in architecture. Past grant recipients have conducted research, created summer camp programs, and developed films highlighting women in archtiecture.
Director of Communications, Advocacy & Public Outreach
