Minds & Machines: Dominating the Convergence of AI and Strategy in AEC in Chicago

Zweig Group’s T(AI)SK FORCE will be hosting a two-day symposium to deep dive into AI integration and operations. Our immersive seminars and workshops equip AEC leaders and managers with understanding, insight, and intelligence to identify and act upon AI opportunities within their organizations.

We liken AI to a marathon that never ends. No matter if you walk, run, or sprint, this will be your first step to getting in the race. This training provides a high-impact, hands-on learning experience that is designed to help emerging and current leaders be at the forefront of the AI technological revolution. AI is not a trend or fad, it is a fixture. AI is here to stay.

Using an iterative, compounded approach, this symposium walks you through a master class in AI:

DAY ONE (*agenda subject to change) 

9am - 5pm  

Module 1 – AI 101                
9-10:30 am (1.5 hours) 
Overview of AI and its potential applications in the AEC industry. What is it, how does it work, why now, and how is it going to impact AEC firms?  

Module 2 – Data Privacy, Security, and Ownership in AI Applications/Legal and Ethical Considerations in AI Adoption                     
10:30 am - noon (1.5 hours) 
Discuss the challenges and best practices for ensuring data privacy and security when implementing AI systems in the AEC industry. Address concerns related to data collection, storage, sharing, ownership, and compliance with contracts, NDAs, copyright, and relevant regulations and laws. 

Module 3 –  Innovative Tools: Illuminating AI Applications        
1-2 pm (1 hour)          
A comprehensive exploration of the programs, apps, and extensions that are currently available and a visionary glimpse into the boundless possibilities of the near future. You will gain valuable insight into the practical applications of AI and their profound implications for your workforce and organization. Key topics include real-world ai applications, use-case studies, emerging tech, and innovative tools and platforms. 

Module 4 – AI in AEC Intro 

2-2:15 (15 minutes) 

Module 5 – AI-Driven Design                      
2:15-3:15 pm (1 hour) 
Featured presenter: Taylor Schmidt | Corbu.AI 
Discuss the transformative impact of AI on architecture, engineering, and construction.  

Module 6 – Project Management and AEC Roundtable Topics                     
3:15-4 pm (.75 hour) 
Explore specific AI tools and strategies to be optimized in project management. 

Module 7 – AI Ideas Shaping Business Fundamentals              
4-5 pm (1 hour) 
AEC industry data and trends; Keeping an eye on value even as AI dominates the discussion; Review the structure of a draft AI plan. 

DAY TWO 

9am - Noon CT 

Module 8 – Leveraging AI in Your Value Differentiation and Beyond  
9-10:30 am (1.5 hours) 
Featured presenter: Dawn F. Landry | Authentizity 
Have you ever struggled with answering a client when they ask, “Why you; why not them?” That question will drive even more challenges as AI continues to level the competitive landscape in the coming years. We will workshop this topic and offer valuable, practical solutions for immediate application in your firm. 

Module 9 – Firm-Wide Operational Shifts         
10:30-11:30 am (1 hour) 
As we move from the weeds to a bird’s-eye view, we’ll take some time to think bigger and better. How can and should AI impact your organizational chart, billable/utilization rate, fees, business operations, and professional development (training/education)? How do you help your people be more creative, productive, and efficient when they shift from reactive to proactive by embracing AI throughout their daily workflow?  

Module 10 – Industry Collaboration and Future Trends             
11:30-noon (30 minutes) 
We will answer remaining questions, foster wrap-up discussions on the collaboration between AEC professionals and AI experts, as well as emerging trends and future possibilities in the integration of AI with the built environment. The group will brainstorm and share ideas about next steps. 

What’s most important is that from this symposium, you will begin to solve the most challenging AI issues and how you can specifically take advantage of the opportunities that will benefit your firm. 

Attendees will have time to work through business use-cases that focus on leading an AI initiative In their own firm that overcomes fear and uncertainty and addresses AI integration, growth and success, recruiting and retention, upskilling staff to close competency gaps, and enhancing staff and client experience.   

At the conclusion of this training, attendees will leave with a personalized AI draft plan, an abundance of understanding about AI, how to successfully lead the implementation of AI at their organization, and key business insights to bring back to their firm.

Who Should Attend? 

• Experienced principals looking to enhance their knowledge of AI and how to successfully lead their firm through this technological transformation
• Department, division, or business function leads that will be empowered to handle AI issues inside their firms
• Project Managers and Senior Project Managers who are looking to take on AI leadership roles within their firms.

Whether you're just beginning your AI journey or seeking to expand your existing AI initiatives, this symposium will equip you with the knowledge and understanding needed to chart decisive next steps and navigate the ever-evolving landscape of AI implementation. We’ll provide you with a comprehensive understanding of AI's potential within the AEC industry and equip you with the knowledge needed to harness the transformative power of AI in your respective role and firm. See how quickly the extraordinary can become customary.

Venue Information

Loews Chicago O'Hare Hotel

Only 5 minutes from O'Hare International Airport!

 Continuing Education 

Upon completion, attendees will receive a certificate of completion electronically for self-reporting. This seminar offers 12 CE credits.