The AIA Practice Management Knowledge Community and the AIA California Council invite you to join them at the 2004 Desert Practice Conference, to be held this year in Indian Wells, Calif., October 29–31. This year’s theme is “Controlling Chaos.” From evolving methods of project delivery and shifting demographics to the elusive influences of globalization and technology, significant changes are affecting the local, national, and global design and construction environment, the conference organizers report. The magnitude and pace of these changes are creating a chaos that can challenge even the most solid of practices.

Ray Bradbury, acclaimed author of more than 500 works that include The Martian Chronicles, The Illustrated Man, Fahrenheit 451, and Something Wicked This Way Comes, and Dr. Richard Farson, psychologist, author, lecturer, educator, and president of Western Behavioral Sciences, will serve as this year’s featured keynote speakers.

The conference also will feature a special track for emerging professionals specifically to address the record low numbers of emerging professionals completing the registration process. Session panelists and participants will consider what it means to be an architect today as well as ways to give new purpose to the profession through innovative firm models and work in the public interest.

The conference will take place at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort and Spa, 20 miles southeast of Palm Springs. For more information, registration forms, and a detailed schedule, visit the AIACC Web site.

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