Event Description
In this session of the AIA International Spring Conference, we present a significant update to the Global Practice Primer, orchestrated by representatives from the distinguished AIA Global Practice Committee. This comprehensive revision marks a crucial advancement in the field integrating many significant updates. The session will emphasize two chapters, the first is dedicated to sustainability – a paramount concern in contemporary architectural discourse and about which many industry advances have occurred. The second includes a new chapter accentuating how emerging professionals can advance their careers internationally. Attendees will be engaged in a rigorous exploration of innovative methodologies and theoretical frameworks, equipping architects with the acumen necessary for leading in the realm of sustainable design and professional advocacy. This presentation is an indispensable convergence of academia and practical application in the evolving landscape of global architecture.
You can download the previous version of the AIA Global Practice Primer here: https://www.aia.org/resource-center/aia-global-practice-primer. The new version should be released in Q2 this year!
Speakers
Li Ren, 2024 Chair, AIA Global Practice Committee, Vice President, AIA Middle East
Michelle Montgomery, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, Emerging Professionals chair, AIA International
Moderator: Jason Holland, AIA, PMP, MBA, Treasurer, AIA International, 2023 Chair, AIA Global Practice Committee
CES: Estimated 1 LU/ for AIA Members
Speaker Bios
Li Ren is an Architect and Associate at Perkins Eastman in Dubai, where he specializes in the design of hospitality, senior living, and master plans. His approach to design is sustainable and inclusive, seeking to involve the community in the design process to enhance both the quality of the design and social engagement. Li is passionate about community-focused design and urban renewal, and his research and practice are centered around these themes, with a particular focus on the areas of technology, sustainability, and culture. He has been recognized for his contributions to the field, including the AIA|DC Emerging Architect Award in 2021 and BD+C’s 40 Under 40 Awards in 2022.
In active involvement with the American Institute of Architects (AIA), Li currently serves as the chair of the 2024 AIA Global Practice Committee and the vice president of the AIA Middle East Chapter. In the realm of academia, Li has made contributions as a visiting lecturer at both Virginia Tech (WAAC) and the American University in the Emirates.
Michelle Montgomery is an Associate Architect at ZGF Architects with a diverse portfolio including inpatient and outpatient healthcare, professional and recreational sports, mixed-use development, and corporate office. Michelle brings expertise in all aspects of architecture, from technical design to documentation to construction administration. Her experience living abroad in Italy, paired with working on various project types, gives her a unique lens through which she integrates universal principles into the design and construction process.
With a special interest in professional development and mentoring of young architects, Michelle co-founded the first international mentorship program geared toward empowering the international community. This 10-month program engages emerging professionals and skilled mentors from around the globe in an engaging environment to strengthen a sense of community within AIA International and drive collaboration across borders.
Michelle sits on the advisory board of NCARB International Workgroup. She is a Co-Chair of the AIA International Emerging Professionals Committee. She also supports the emerging professionals of the AIA Continental Europe Chapter and is the past communications chair of AIACE.
Michelle earned a Bachelor of Architecture from Louisiana State University.
Jason Holland has worked abroad for 14 of his 15 years of professional career. He worked for over 13 years in China, gaining rich experiences which include global corporate architecture, on-site project management and co-founding his own studio abroad. In 2024 he relocated to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to join Buro Happold and focus on Development. He has also previously worked in Latin America on sustainability-focused natural building projects.
Jason is the current AIA International Treasurer and he is the immediate past-committee chair for the AIA Global Practice Committee. He was previously the AIA Shanghai Treasurer and also launched the AIA Shanghai Emerging Professionals Committee with the support of the College of Fellows Component Grant for Emerging Professionals. He still advises the committee as it continues to be a signature program for AIA Shanghai, encompassing mentorship, business of design, ARE support and more..
Additionally, Jason holds a Global MBA from Imperial College London Business School with a specialization in Strategy where he earned Distinction marks. He is also a certified Project Management Professional (PMP).
