The construction industry shapes the spaces wherewe live, work, and connect. As conversations around diversity and inclusion gain momentum, the built environment is being challenged to rethink not only industry culture and policies, but also how spaces are designed to serve diverse communities.

In this article, we speak with Brandon Clokey, a moderator at the New York Build 2026 panel discussion "Hear From the Leaders Driving Diversity & Inclusion" alongside Masai Lawson, Maria Teresa Osorio, Regina Grande Rivera, Stacey Ruhle Kliesch, and Lourdes Zapata. 

He shares insights on his career, his perspective on equity in design, and the steps we can take to drive meaningful change in construction.

About Brandon Clokey:

Brandon Clokey is a residential design professional and design consultant with extensive experience across educational, cultural, and commercial projects. Over more than three decades of practice, he has collaborated with organizations including Best Buy, Target, The Duluth Children’s Museum, the College of St. Scholastica, and the Bismarck International Airport. Earlier in his career, he worked with The Ohio State University and later became the youngest faculty member in the history of Columbus State Community College.Throughout this time, he has had a passion for teaching youth in the realm of design and engaging young talent in our industry. He is currently in his fourth year as National Chair of the American Residential Design Awards, a program that has grown substantially under his leadership. Recognized nationally for his contributions to the profession, Clokey is the 2025 AIBD Designer of the Year and currently serves as Internal Vice President of the American Institute of Building Design (AIBD).

 

   1. To start, please could you tell us a bit about who you are today and your work at the AIBD?

"I am currently in my second year as Internal Vice President of the American Institute of Building Design. Within AIBD, I am fortunate to serve in many capacities. In 2026, I am entering my fourth year as Chairperson of the American Residential Design Awards, a role I am especially proud to hold.

I also serve as Chairperson of the Conference Committee, which focuses on planning and executing our conferences, including our large annual conference and ARDA Gala each summer. In addition, I am completing my second year as Managing Editor for the AIBD Magazine.

Through all of these opportunities, I am able to work closely with our staff and engage with many of our members in meaningful ways that would not typically occur."
 

 

     2.    What originally drew you to the built environment and how have your early experiences shaped not just your career, but your values within the industry?

"From a very early age, I knew I wanted to be a designer in some capacity. As a child, I probably had more LEGO blocks than any kid reasonably should. Much of my childhood — starting around age four — was spent in our family room trying to build a house bigger than the one before it. My father always had a strong interest in residential construction and design, so it was a consistent theme in our home. As I got older, instead of toys and video games, my family encouraged my interests by giving me home plan books, subscriptions to design magazines, and eventually a full-size drafting board for my room.

Through those tools and experiences, I learned the value of detail and the importance of time invested in the process. I quickly realized that talent and desire were only half of what it takes to be a great designer. The other half is the ability to truly feel a design at its core — and to deeply understand the client and their needs."

 

     3. You’ve worn many hats throughout your career. How has working across different roles and environments influenced your perspective on diversity, inclusion and opportunity in construction?

"I have been truly blessed to serve in a wide variety of professional roles. I have been a designer, a pastor, a middle school teacher, a nonprofit executive director, and even a candidate for state office. Every one of these experiences exposed me to people from all walks of life. They gave me countless opportunities to see and understand that our lives — and our struggles — are often far more similar than they are different, regardless of who we are or where we come from.

Each of us has a unique ability to bring to the table. This industry has the potential to be as creative and thoughtful as we choose to be. Embracing diversity allows us to create far more than we ever could through a limited lens."

 

     4. From your experience, why is diversity such a critical issue for the future of
construction and the built environment?

"I can only speak from the perspective of a designer, but I believe designers play a critical role throughout the entire process. Long before construction begins — or even before bids are sent out — designers and architects have the responsibility of establishing trust and confidence with owners. The significant time invested with owners naturally builds strong relationships.

When diversity is included and recognized early in the process, it can help set the tone for achieving the best possible end results. After all, delivering the best outcome should be the goal of every construction project."

 

Speaking on his favorite project from his career, a four-building family compound with five bedrooms, Brandon reflects how diversity is not limited to one's race or gender. "We have a group of homeowners that are often overlooked, not because of skin color or gender, but budget," Brandon says. "Not everyone has $12 million to spend on a house in the mountains. [...] So, who designs for real, average people?" 

 

     5. How can industry leaders move beyond good intentions and start creating
meaningful, lasting change?

"Unfortunately, major industries rarely change simply because it is the right thing to do. More often, change is driven by shifts in the political landscape, potential revenue loss, or other factors that have little to do with a genuine commitment to true diversity.

Industry leaders can move beyond statements and good intentions by intentionally seeking to understand the life experiences, perspectives, and ambitions of people who are different from themselves. Equally important is recognizing that meaningful, lasting change does not begin in the boardroom. It begins with honest dialogue — real conversations with people, not conversations about people."

 

     6. What role do mentorship, education and visibility play in attracting more diverse talent into construction?

“Mentorship plays a vital role in everything we do. For many minorities, the industry has not always been welcoming. Having mentors who have walked this path and faced similar challenges can make all the difference — especially for someone who may be questioning whether this field is right for them.

Life experience is often the greatest education we receive. Learning from those who understand your journey and can guide you when you reach those “fork in the road” moments can be the difference between a great career and a difficult one.
Mentorship is not just about teaching or directing; it is about listening, supporting, and helping others achieve their goals. None of us are where we are solely because of our own decisions and actions. When people witness genuine mentorship, meaningful relationships, and a sincere commitment to lifting one another up, they see something powerful — something they want to be part of.”

 

     7. What advice would you give to individuals who are considering going into construction today?

“If your goal is to enter this industry — and even more, to make a meaningful mark — my advice is simple: be fearless. As a minority, as a woman, or as a young professional, you may walk into rooms where no one looks like you. Always remember that you are meant to be there, even when it feels uncomfortable. Stay. Engage. Participate.

Unfortunately, outdated stereotypes still exist in many parts of our country. While it is not your responsibility to dismantle them alone, you do have the responsibility to boldly demonstrate what you bring to the table. That might be a specialized skill set, strong leadership, or knowledge that is deeply needed.

Whatever it is — whenever you show up — be yourself and be fearless.”

 

We extend our thanks to Brandon for sharing his thoughts in this article, and for participating at past editions of New York Build and Chicago Build.

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The American Institute of Building Design (AIBD), a nonprofit professional organization established in 1950, strives to protect and enhance our member's ability to practice their profession. AIBD is committed to providing quality continuing education to ensure that our members remain current with technology, materials, and building codes. AIBD is also committed to establishing and maintaining professional relationships with other trade, business, and professional organizations within the design and construction industry. AIBD is partnering with Chicago Build 2026. Meet them at the McCormick Place on October 28 - 29, 2026.

 

About Chicago Build

Chicago Build Expo is the largest construction & design show in the Midwest, bringing together contractors, architects, developers, engineers, housebuilders, government representatives, and industry professionals for two days of networking, knowledge sharing, and business opportunities. The event features 30,000+ attendees, 350+ exhibitors and 450+ top-level speakers. This year, we're taking on a brand-new hall and launching 3 new zones including an AI & Digital Zone, Fire Safety & Security Zone, and a HVACR Zone powered by InstallerSHOW.

Dates: October 28 – 29, 2026

Venue: Hall F2, West Building, Level 3, McCormick Place, 2301 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL, 60616, USA

Get involved: www.chicagobuildexpo.com

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