In an era of rapid automation and technical complexity, our most personal and human traits of empathy, intuition, and social sensitivity, can become our greatest professional assets. This workshop focuses on championing life and lived experience as a "Superpower" for the modern AEC professional and industry stakeholder.

Led by Erin Sharp-Newton, M.Arch (Chair, AIA NJ WIA), in collaboration with Stacey Ruhle Kliesch, AIA (Chair, AIA NJ Equity Committee) and Elina Shchervinsky, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP (Expert Forensic Architecture, LLC), this interactive session pivots from technical rigidity to explore how AEC professionals and vendors can embrace and harness humanness to their advantage.

The session explores both the gritty realities of market volatility, burnout, and disruption alongside high-level emotional intelligence (EQ). Rather than focusing solely on design deliverables, we explore human-centric professionalism as a survival strategy, for clients, firms and individuals alike. Through a blend of behavioral health insights, investigation, and personal narratives, the presenters create an environment for moving from reactive problem-solving to proactive flourishing.

Attendees will leave with an action plan to sustain their health, professional value, and passion for built and experienced environments.