Looking to the Future of AIA Minnesota
by Amy Kalar, AIA, NOMA, AIA Minnesota President
As I reflect on the past year, I am filled with excitement and optimism for the future of our profession and AIA Minnesota. While we’ve faced challenges, it’s clear that the opportunities ahead are even greater. As our profession evolves to address critical issues like climate resilience, social justice, and the impact of artificial intelligence, we continue to play a vital role in shaping the built environment and the communities we serve. This is an incredibly dynamic and transformative time to be part of our profession, and serving as your president has been a true honor. I am deeply energized by what we can achieve together in the years ahead.
Throughout my time as president, I’ve had the privilege of engaging with many of you in conversations about the future of our profession. These discussions have been invaluable in shaping my own perspective and guiding our collective work. Listening to diverse viewpoints has reinforced the importance of open dialogue and mutual respect as we chart a course forward. It is through these conversations — where every voice is heard — that we build the trust and shared vision necessary to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
I’ve also been deeply impressed by the willingness of so many of you to share your experiences, ideas, and concerns with the board. This openness is essential as we continue to shape the future of AIA Minnesota. Every conversation, every piece of feedback, helps us better understand your priorities and the issues that matter most to our profession. As we look ahead, we’ll continue to rely on your input to guide our efforts and ensure we are meeting the needs of our members.
One impactful way you can contribute to shaping our future is by participating in the AIA Minnesota Future Forward Survey. This survey is an opportunity for you to share your thoughts on the issues that matter most to you — whether it’s the direction of our organization, the challenges facing the profession, or the opportunities you see for growth. Your insights will be crucial as we plan for the future and ensure AIA Minnesota remains a strong, relevant, and supportive organization for years to come.
Looking forward, I am filled with confidence and excitement about what lies ahead – especially under the guidance of our next president – Jennifer Christiaansen, AIA. Our profession is evolving, and so too is AIA Minnesota. With the energy, creativity, and dedication that I’ve seen throughout this year, I have no doubt that we will continue to be a powerful force for positive change and leader amongst AIA components throughout the country. Together, we will continue to push the boundaries of design, advocate for the built environment, and strengthen our community.