AIA Trust at the AIA Conference on Architecture: Firm Audits, Expert Sessions & Resources for Resilient Practice

This year at the AIA Conference on Architecture, AIA Trust is proud to collaborate with AIA at the AIA Booth to support one of the most impactful offerings on the Expo floor: Free Firm Performance Audits—available Thursday and Friday starting at 12pm.

These one-on-one sessions pair firm leaders with professional architecture business consultants for a comprehensive audit of firm performance. Together, you’ll explore strengths and challenges across finance, leadership, management, operations, sustainability, marketing, and culture—and walk away with actionable strategies for improvement.

AIA Trust will be on-site, lending our expertise in insurance, legal considerations, risk management, and retirement planning to complement these audits. Our involvement ensures that members receive a holistic view of their practice, including how to reduce liability, protect their business, and plan for the future.

For small firms and sole practitioners especially, this is an unparalleled opportunity to receive the kind of multi-faceted business insight that can often feel out of reach. It’s personalized, practical, and entirely free for AIA members.

AIA Booth (Expo Floor):
Thursday & Friday beginning at 12pm
Firm Performance Audits with consultants + AIA Trust subject matter experts.

Prosper Zone (Expo Floor)
Both Thursday and Friday
AIA Trust will also be part of learning opportunities in the Prosper Zone. Final session details are being confirmed—members can follow our social media channels for the latest updates on where and when to find us.

You can register for the following sessions directly through the AIA Conference website under the Schedule section. Search by title to add them to your personalized conference agenda.

AIA & AIA Trust Collaboration: Starting & Operating Your Own Firm

Panelists: Kurt Neiswender, Katherine Serrano Sosa, Leah Alissa Bayer

• Managing risks from day one
• Resilience strategies for small firms
• Building culture, equity, and inclusive practices
• Creating a strategic vision for growth

AIA & AIA Trust Collaboration: Internal Leadership Transitions and Succession Planning in Firms

Panelists: Jonathan Shoemaker, Andrew McKinley, Judith Miller, Donna Phaneuf, Josh Boehlke

• Identifying and mentoring future leaders
• Change management and communication tools
• Creating a culture of continuity and resilience
• Real-world transition insights from firm leaders

One Foot in Your Mouth, the Other in a Grave

Presented by Victor Insurance Managers LLC
Presenter: Frank Musica

• Communication missteps that can lead to legal exposure
• Impact of marketing materials and proposals on liability
• “Red flag” contract language and uninsurable risks- Documentation best practices to protect your firm

Legal Best Practices for Architects

Presenters: Charles Heuer, Donna Hunt, Jacqueline Pons-Bunney, R Williams

• Client/project selection do’s and don’ts
• Proposal and contract drafting with risk in mind
• Understanding and responding to liability claims
• Practical tips from architects with legal expertise

AIA Trust is your resource for vetted professional support—offering member-exclusive insurance and retirement solutions, legal and risk management insights, and continuing education. Whether you’re starting your own firm, navigating growth, or preparing for succession, we’re here to help you do it wisely and with confidence.

Join us at the AIA Booth, in the Prosper Zone, or at one of our sponsored sessions. We look forward to seeing you at the Conference on Architecture!