Though you've been out of school for some time now, you've got that funny September feeling that it's time to head back to the classroom. The AIA professional interest areas have just what you need to fulfill that autumnal craving: a variety of exciting learning opportunities across the U.S. and abroad.

The conferences are a great way to complete your LU hours, meet up with new friends, and form new relationships . . . just like your old school days.

September

Sept. 18–21, Seattle
Lifelong Learning: Lessons from Business and Culture, Committee on Architecture for Education
For those working to create learning environments in formal educational settings, there are valuable lessons to be learned from outside practices and environments. Building on a review of nontraditional learning settings at the CAE spring 2002 conference in Cambridge, Mass., this seminar will continue to explore alternative practices and environments from business, cultural, and community activities that facilitate learning throughout our lifetime.

September 19–22, Montreal
Montreal: A City of Contrasts, Committee on Design
In 2002, the Committee on Design focuses on two North American cities, Las Vegas and Montréal, to see how divergent cultures and the existing urban form influence the new built environment. COD's 2002 theme, "A Study in Contrasts," is bringing to light not only the differences between Las Vegas and Montréal, but also the contrasts contained within each city, and how each serves as an excellent example of modern urban living.

September 27–29, Des Moines
RUDC 2002 Conference: Mixed-Use Development | Regional and Urban Design Committee
This conference on mixed-use development is to explore issues, strengths, and threats to cities and how mixed-use development and innovative partnerships can help address communities' potential. Many small cities are seeing significant opportunities and successful project implementation, as well as seeking answers and ideas for addressing sprawl and transportation needs. Des Moines is a prime example of such a city—growing rapidly and experiencing a wide range of regional and urban design-related projects and issues, with more than $1.5 billion committed to construction of downtown projects. Harvey Gantt, FAIA, will be a featured speaker.

October

October 2–6, Florence, Italy
Florence Through the Millennia | AIA International Committee in partnership with AIA Continental Europe
Throughout the millennia, the city of Florence has reigned supreme as a center of art and architecture. But what is Florence today? Has it become merely a museum for foreign tourists, or is it a living city, still protected by the grace of its beauty and harmony? Experience Florence from an architect's point of view by joining the AIA at a conference centered on the city's rich heritage.

October 3–5, Salt Lake City
Go for the Gold: Profit from Project Management | Practice Management
This conference for project managers of all levels will combine plenary sessions with panel discussions, exhibits of the latest in project management technology, and tours that include Olympic sites and other locally significant architecture. You will learn to create and control project budgets and schedules; manage clients and contractors; be effective when things go wrong; use PM applications through the Internet; develop an effective PM manual; manage multiple projects and priorities; create and maintain an effective project management culture; manage contracts and project scope; coach, delegate, and negotiate; and ensure an effective project closeout.

October 9–12, Boston
ED 2002: Evolving Design of the Emergency Department 2002 | Academy for Architecture for Health
What are the emerging issues affecting emergency department design? Ranging from terrorism to the daily realities of increasing visits, more uninsured patients, and a focus on patient/staff safety requirements, there are a multitude of factors to consider as we plan for emergency services of the future. Learn how at this conference.

October 31–November 3, Washington, D.C.
Building Performance: Improving the Quality of the Built Environment | Building Performance PIA
Clients of commercial buildings want it all: safety, affordability, productivity, beauty, environmental sensitivity, and sustainability. Luckily, we have the knowledge, design tools, and methodologies to design, construct, and operate these high-performance buildings. Join the conference and roundtable at the AIA national component headquarters to discuss ways to integrate the issue of building performance into the construction of the nation's commercial buildings.

October 31–November 3, New Paltz, N.Y.
Heritage Tourism in the Hudson River Valley | Historic Resources Committee
Heritage tourism has become a growth industry, with economic and cultural benefits for communities of all sizes. This conference will investigate the mechanisms for fostering heritage tourism, and the role of the preservation architect within the process of planning, developing, and maintaining viable and sustainable heritage tourism.

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