The AI and business tools design school doesn’t teach.

The AI and business tools design school doesn’t teach.

Designed for Next is a one-day business summit for AEC professionals navigating growth, leadership, and what’s next for the industry. Returning spring 2027.

Hear from professionals who’ve done the work.

Experience a day built around the decisions you’re wrestling with right now, from using AI strategically and ethically to finding new clients beyond word of mouth.

Leave with solutions you can use on Monday morning, not slides you’ll never open again.

A pair of architects working

Topics

Sessions that shape what’s next.

01

AI Is Here. Now What?

What firms are actually doing right now and what’s worth ignoring.

Main Stage

02

Follow the Money: What Designers Don’t Know About Development

What developers prioritize when selecting teams and making decisions.

Focus Session

03

Succession Is a Growth Strategy

How leadership transitions can drive expansion, not just exit.

Focus Session

04

A Pragmatic Approach to AI in Architecture

Explore cloud cybersecurity, the risks of inadequate AI preparation, and guidelines for a firm-wide digital foundation.

Main Stage

05

How Firms Get Exposed

Where firms and sole practitioners are most vulnerable — legally, financially, and operationally.

Main Stage

06

Strategy Beyond Word of Mouth

How to position your firm to attract better opportunities, not just more.

Focus Session

07

The Forum: Work the Problem Group Application

Pressure-test decisions and insights with peers facing similar stakes.

Working Session

Get in the Room

Leading, growing, or figuring it out — you’re in the right place.

Speakers

Proven practitioners.

Patrick Deveau
Patrick DeveauVP, Development Management
JLL
Jim Eshleman, AIA
Jim Eshleman, AIAManaging Principal
REDCON Consulting
Read Bio
Simon Goodhead
Simon GoodheadPrincipal Consultant & President
Goodhead Strategies
Read Bio
Akhil Hemanth, Assoc. AIA
Akhil Hemanth, Assoc. AIAAI Technology Architect
Newcomb & Boyd
Read Bio
KK Loy, AIA
KK Loy, AIADevelopment Manager
JLL
Read Bio
Brendan McCarthy
Brendan McCarthyCorporate Attorney
Andre Kill & McCarthy, LLP
Sandy Paul
Sandy PaulProfessor of the Practice
Georgia Tech
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Paul Van Slyke, AIA
Paul Van Slyke, AIAIndependent Consultant
Van Slyke Architectural Shop
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Aaron Vorwerk, AIA
Aaron Vorwerk, AIAAEC Practice Leader, Architects + Owners
Egnyte
Read Bio

2026 Sponsors

Foundation

Egnyte logo

Fuel

ATG logo
Newcomb Boyd logo