The 2002 AIA National Convention and Expo will be in Charlotte, May 9 to 11, and there's still time to join in the building and design industry professionals' mainstay event for education, information, and innovation.

This year's convention—Carolinas2002—offers:
• Thought-provoking theme sessions
• Challenging and enlightening continuing education programs
• Fascinating tours of both Carolinas
• Special events and added attractions where you can network with colleagues from across the country
• 500 leading-edge companies exhibiting new products, technology innovations, and services to give you the competitive edge to prosper in today's evolving marketplace.

Scintillating sessions
The convention opens on Thursday, May 9, with its first theme session by management savant Tom Peters—chair and founder of the global training and consulting company, tompeterscompany!—who will tackle the business of architecture in these times of cut-throat competition, ever-changing markets, turbo-charged technology, and thriving e-commerce.

On Friday, May 10, Hugh L. McColl Jr., former chair and CEO of Bank of America Corporation—one of the largest, fastest growing financial institutions in the country—will discuss the relationship between architecture, financial organizations, and community wellbeing.

And for the grand finale, on Saturday, May 11, Jerry Hirshberg, founding director and president of Nissan Design America, will lead a panel of AIA Gold Medalists—2002 AIA Gold Medalist Tadao Ando, Hon. FAIA; 2001 Gold Medalist Michael Graves, FAIA; 1997 Gold Medalist Richard Meier, FAIA; 1986 Gold Medalist Arthur Erickson, Hon. FAIA; and 1982 Gold Medalist Romaldo Giurgola, FAIA—through lively debate, frank opinion, insight, and vision about the opportunities and challenges facing the building and design profession.

Educational opportunities
Carolinas2002 workshops, seminars, and professional tours will address a variety of issues facing the profession today. We'll help you identify and gain the resources to meet challenges and make the most of the opportunities in this complex global environment. We'll address issues of scale, character, and livability as well as security, safety, and durability. We'll examine how to sharpen your presentation skills, attract new business, and manage your clients. How to go "green" without "going weird," how to develop new lines of business, and the top 10 reasons architects don't get rehired. In short, how to ensure that people around the world are able to live, work, and play in environments that are diverse, innovative, exciting, and safe.

Charlotte in the spring
One more point: Charlotte in the spring is incomparable. This vibrant city offers a comfortable climate, beautiful natural surroundings, fascinating neighborhoods, and clean, tree-lined streets. Its cultural venues thrive with music, visual arts, and dance. And the enthusiasm of its fans makes the Queen City a mecca for sports (don't miss the Carolinas Expedition Host Chapter Party at Ericsson Stadium, home to the Carolina Panthers, on Friday evening, May 10, 7–11 p.m.)

Register now—it's not too late! Many of the workshops, tours, and special events still have spaces available. For the most up-to-date convention information and to register online, visit www.aiaconvention.com. You can also call M|C Communications, 617-859-4475, for information on attending and booking exhibit space. Don't let this opportunity pass you by—ya'll come!

Copyright 2002 The American Institute of Architects. All rights reserved.