Equity in Practice Series: Session 2

Equity in Practice Series: Recruitment, Negotiation, and Mentorship 

In the second installment of our virtual Equity in Practice Series, the AIA Colorado's Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (J.E.D.I.) committee is jumping into Chapters 4-6 of the AIA Guides for Equitable Practice, we’ll be talking about the big three: recruitment, negotiation, and mentorship. (A trio just as essential to your career as coffee, deadlines and asking “Is this PDF the final-final version?”)

Participants will examine how hiring practices, career negotiation dynamics, and mentorship structures influence workplace equity and professional development. The session will explore how bias, unequal access to opportunities, and informal networks can shape career trajectories—and how firms can intentionally create more transparent, supportive systems that strengthen both individuals and organizations.

Through guided discussion and practical examples, attendees will learn strategies for improving recruitment and retention practices, fostering equitable negotiation processes, and developing mentorship and sponsorship relationships that support career growth. These approaches ultimately contribute to stronger teams, more resilient firms, and better design outcomes that serve the public’s health, safety, and welfare.

This one-hour virtual session will include a brief presentation and facilitated discussion to help participants connect the concepts from the guides to everyday professional practice.

WHEN: Thursday, May 28, Noon - 1pm MST

WHERE: Zoom (linked emailed prior to event)

EDUCATION: Session has been submitted for 1 LU. 

Registration is required. RSVP window closes 1 hour prior to the start of the event.

Active AIA member number required to complete registration.

AIA Colorado Allied Members: use the same email address for RSVP that is listed in the Allied Member Directory and type Allied2026 in the member number field.

AIAS students: use your .edu email address to register and type AIAS into the member number field.

The Zoom meeting link will be emailed 1 day before the event from an AIA Colorado staff member to the email address used to complete RSVP.