Archived Webinars

Special in-person presentation with Dory Azar

Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Postponed to a future date

Whether you’re starting from scratch or ready to level-up your existing social media game, this session will
inspire you to rethink how architects can share their work and purpose online. Join architect Dory Azar for
a candid, hands-on talk about turning your process and personality into content that connects. Alongside
actionable strategies, you’ll witness a full video captured, edited, and posted live during the session
using the same process Dory uses to connect with his audience of over 285,000 followers. You’ll leave with
fresh ideas, useful tools, and the confidence to finally hit “share”.

Learning Objectives:

1. Participants will be able to define their area of expertise and apply strategies to position themselves as a credible voice online.
2. Participants will be able to identify three meaningful content verticals to organize their social media mindset and set clear, actionable goals.
3. Participants will be able to practice online engagement techniques that increase connection and visibility across platforms.

 Download presentation brochure

 CE: 1 LU

179D Today and Tomorrow: The Future of Greenbuilding Tax Initiatives

Thursday, September 10, 2026 | 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Join us for a discussion of the section 179D Deduction and how it can benefit Architectural firms. We will be discussing the background of this powerful green building deduction as well as the recent changes created by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022.

This webinar will include details about both the expansion and the increased impact of 179D in future years. We will also discuss the alternative qualification path known as the Retrofit Program and what this new path means for Architects, building owners, and other designers of buildings. Attendees will also learn who is eligible to receive these benefits, what is required as part of the qualification calculations, and which green energy strategies are eligible. We hope you join us for this exciting discussion on the future of the 179D green energy tax incentive!

Learning Objectives

1. Overview of the 179D Deduction.
2. The expansion and the increased impact of 179D in future years. 
3. Overview of the Retrofit Program for 179D. 
4. What the Inflation Reduction Act means for building owners and designers of buildings. 
5. How to qualify for the bonus rate (up to $5.00 per square foot) vs. the base rate (up to $1.00 per square foot). 

 CE: 1 LU 

The One Pipe Material Course You Have to Take

1. Lifecycle-Based Sustainability Evaluation: Participants will be able to evaluate the sustainability of plumbing pipe materials across their full lifecycle by correctly identifying key differences in embodied impacts and end-of-life outcomes.
2. Analysis of Water Quality Impacts: Participants will be able to analyze how plumbing system design and material selection influence water quality when presented with scenarios involving stagnation, disinfectant decay, and material interactions in plumbing systems by accurately predicting impacts such as increased leaching, amplified microbial growth, and degradation of health/aesthetic factors.
3. Risk Identification in Material Selection: Participants will be able to identify potential health and safety issues associated with different pipe materials when reviewing plumbing system design scenarios by correctly linking material properties to risks such as incompatibility with construction materials and maintenance chemicals, structural failure from physical and thermal changes, and the effects of permeation.

4. Fire Behavior: Participants will be able to assess the fire performance of plumbing pipe materials when reviewing building fire scenarios and code requirements by distinguishing between combustible and non-combustible materials and identifying associated risks such as flame spread, smoke toxicity, and system failure.

 

AIA NEI Masonry In-Person Event

Thursday, May 28, 2026 | 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Join us as AIA NEI hosts two back-to-back programs on best practices in working with masonry. This event offers 2 LU | HSW credits. Drinks and appetizers will be available.

Building Failures: How Architects Can Lead with Solutions

Masonry buildings constructed with CMU and embedded roof trusses are failing at an alarming rate in Chicago. An unfortunate combination of new materials and old-world construction methods has led to this situation. Restoring these buildings requires a combination of bulk water and moisture vapor management. This course presents solutions that manage bulk water, dry out wet walls, manage condensation production behind roof membranes and, when caught in time, can prevent trusses from rotting.

Learning Objectives:

1. Recognize signs of moisture intrusion in masonry buildings and identify common moisture intrusion entry points.
2. Describe how building science, supply chain and installation/repair methods impact each other in the field.
3. Describe how condensation forms behind low-slope roofing membranes and in interstitial roof spaces
4. Describe how providing pathways for moisture vapor to exit a building can restore a wet building to a healthy building. 
5. Explain how some compromised trusses can be reinforced to restore structural integrity.

Tips for Detailing Masonry Assemblies: Lessons Learned from IMI’s Drawing Reviews

Over the years IMI has conducted thousands of masonry assembly drawing and specification reviews for architects, engineers, construction managers, general contractors, and mason contractors. This seminar is a collection of reoccurring edits of construction documents and emerging methods that will aid the attendee in understanding how to develop comprehensive masonry documents to create more functional, durable, constructable, aesthetically pleasing and economical masonry details.

Providing more thorough masonry information in construction documents will aid the masonry contractors to generate more inclusive bids, minimize or eliminate requests for information (RFI’s) and changes during construction, and help the design professional establish realistic masonry expectations for their next project. 

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand how masonry drawings and specifications are coordinated.
2. Discover the process for conducting masonry reviews.
3. Review some of the more common and reoccurring masonry detailing mistakes in architectural and structural construction documents.
4. Learn how to create comprehensive masonry details and specifications.

CE: 2 LU | HSW

Moisture Management in Tiled Showers

Thursday, May 21, 2026 | 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Leaks and mold continue to pose serious problems for the construction industry. This seminar will compare traditional waterproofing systems with modern waterproofing technology to show how tiled showers have evolved. The fundamentals of both approaches, including proper design, execution, and function will be presented, with close attention paid to common errors, as well. The benefits of bonded waterproofing technology and how it has improved tiled showers will be stressed.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify the benefits and challenges associated with tiled showers.
2. Understand the proper design and execution of tiled shower waterproofing systems.
3. Recognize the benefits of bonded waterproofing technology and how it has revolutionized tiled showers.

CE: 1 LU | HSW

Air Barriers Assemblies: Technology, Installation and Code Compliance

New date! Thursday, May 7, 2026 | 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Advancements in air barrier technology and higher accountability for indoor air quality, energy efficiency and fire protection lead to increasingly complex design and construction requirements. This course reviews technology options and critical design and installation practices of exterior wall assemblies to ensure long term stability, code compliance, and occupant health, safety, and welfare.

CE: 1 LU | HSW

Designing for Neurodiversity

Thursday, April 23, 2026 | 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Designing for neurodiversity is an informative seminar that explores the intricate challenges inherent in creating environments that cater to the neurodiverse. While rooted in educational considerations, this course extends its scope to various settings. Participants will gain valuable insights and practical knowledge to inform design decisions that prioritize inclusivity and well-being for neurodiverse populations, including those with autism, ADHD, and sensory processing disorders.

Learning objectives:

1. Understand the diverse range of neurodiverse conditions and individuals, including but not limited to autism, ADHD, and sensory processing disorders, to inform design decisions that promote inclusivity and well-being.
2. Review relevant local and international guidelines, legislation, and best practices related to neurodiversity, ensuring that design choices align with industry standards and support the safety, health, and welfare of neurodiverse populations.
3. Understand the various sensory sensitivities and differences experienced by neurodiverse individuals, including those related to light, sound, touch, and spatial perception, and integrate this knowledge into design solutions that create environments accommodating these differences.
4. Review key design considerations that foster neurodiversity-friendly spaces across different settings and contexts, striking a balance between sensory-sensitive design and functionality to create safe and accessible environments for all.

 CE 1 LU | HSW

Smokin NFPA 285 Lessons Learned from the Field

Thursday, March 26, 2026 | 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

When considering the building enclosure, fire safety is an important design factor and needs to be considered hand-in-hand with energy code requirements. The NFPA 285 "Standard Fire Test Method for Evaluation of Fire Propagation Characteristics of Exterior Non-Load-Bearing Wall Assemblies Containing Combustible Components" is a common consideration with modern building assemblies that use combustible materials.

This presentation will review the history and scope of the NFPA 285 test standard and its adoption within the International Building Code (IBC). It will outline the criteria for compliance, as well as identify triggers and contributors under the standard. The presentation will review how the selection building components such as insulation, air/water resistive barriers and claddings, can affect the fire performance of an assembly and identify solutions and common paths for compliance.

CE 1 LU | HSW

 

IECC Energy Review and Masonry Compliance Options

Thursday, March 12, 2026 | 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Join us as we review masonry wall compliance options and the exterior envelope R-Value requirements of the 2021 and other iterations of the IECC. We will examine exterior wall R-values and learn to define and incorporate Continuous Insulation (CI) and other design tactics and innovations. We will also present new masonry wall systems that achieve superior moisture management, higher R-values, zero lot line capability, faster construction, pre-installed air barriers and compliance with current IECC.

CE: 1 LU | HSW

Innovating for Impact: Tour of the Norix Headquarters and Manufacturing Facility

Thursday, March 5, 2026 | 8:30 am - 12:00 pm

Join us for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Norix Headquarters and Manufacturing Facility in West Chicago, led by project architects Heitman Architects Inc. This 200,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art complex brings together corporate offices, a product showroom, and advanced manufacturing under one roof. 

The architecture of this facility serves as the essential framework for a high-performance industrial ecosystem, demonstrating how spatial organization and design work in tandem with the production of Norix furniture. Attendees will observe how the building’s design supports the company’s mission to create high-quality, durable commercial furniture for challenging environments. You will see firsthand how architecture and industrial design collaborate to integrate contemporary aesthetics and color with robust structural integrity, ensuring that human-centered products are conceived and produced to meet the most rigorous safety and performance standards.

Learning Objectives

1. Analyze the relationship between product design, manufacturing, and facility planning in a modern industrial environment. 
2. Identify building design strategies—such as daylighting and material selection—that enhance safety, productivity, and employee well-being. 
3. Examine how sustainable and resilient design practices are integrated into manufacturing facilities to improve long-term operational performance. 
4. Understand the design of human-centered furniture solutions for behavioral health and how these principles influence facility design. 

 CE: 2 LU | HSW

Cohosted and registration managed by: AIA Chicago

Healthy Home

Thursday, February 26, 2026 | 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Buildings have a become a complex network of control systems which must work together to prevent failure, but often times these systems are incorporated incorrectly and lead to significant damage and unhealthy living conditions. This course will explore the four control layers in the building envelope and how they must work together to create a healthy home. 

Learning Objectives

1. Understand why moisture management and drainage gaps, behind claddings, are more critical as we focus more on air tightness in the structure's envelope.
2. Recognize that a true air barrier is created with a continuous plane around the entire building envelope.
3. Understand how all control layers in the building envelope work together to prevent failure.
4. Recognize the importance of communication between trades, design professionals, and manufacturers are vital to ensure proper detailing in the building envelope.

CE 1 LU | HSW

Building Code Seminar

Wednesday, November 5, 2025 | 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

Join the Development Services staff for a building code seminar reviewing the significant updates from the 2021 to the 2024 code.

Learning Objectives

1. Know what the 2024 Building Code is and why it is being adopted in Oak Park.
2. Know where to obtain information on 2024 Building Code requirements.
3. Know the general organization and contents of 2024 Building code and Oak Park amendments.
4. Explain the difference between the 2021 Building Code and the new 2024 Building code

CE: 4 LU | HSW

Email Becky Gilbert to register.

Residential Code Seminar

Wednesday, November 12, 2025 | 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

Join the Development Services staff for a residential code seminar reviewing the significant updates from the 2021 to the 2024 code.

Learning Objectives

1. Know what the 2024 Residential Code is and why it is being adopted in Oak Park.
2. Know where to obtain information on 2024 Residential Code requirements.
3. Know the general organization and contents of 2024 Residential code and Oak Park amendments.
4. Explain the difference between the 2021 Residential Code and the new 2024 code

CE: 4 LU | HSW

Email Becky Gilbert to register.

Accessibility for All!!!

Wednesday, October 29, 2025 | 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Most people will inevitably suffer from accessibility issues in their lifespan. These issues would arise due to:

• Diagnosis
• Aging process
• Accidental mishaps and combat related injuries
• Lifestyle

Thanks to advances in healthcare and medical sciences, people are living longer, but not necessarily healthier. Most Americans spend roughly 90% of their time indoors which is 2.5 to 3 times more toxic than the outdoors. This is due to off-gassing VOC's from materials/finished used, bacterial contamination, poor air quality, water contamination, etc. thus affecting indoor environment quality (IEQ). 

By integrating building science thoughtfully, it is possible to create meaningful live/learn/work/play spaces. This presentation will illustrate how the principles of Universal Design (UD) help create an enabling and healthy environment. 

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a civil rights act that addresses issues faced by Americans with physical and mental impairments. It is applicable to about 1 in 5 Americans. ADA based design guidelines establish minimal accessibility standards.

Universal Design (UD) is applicable to the broadest spectrum of people irrespective of age, gender or abilities. UD is a multifaceted accessibility enabling paradigm (i.e. Keyless Entry, Swiss Army Knife, Smartphone, etc.). The market success of designs based on UD (i.e. smartphone, OXO grips) is undeniable and shows that such designs sell by themselves.

Learning Objectives

1. Understand UD goals and principles.
2. Identify UD 's application to spaces, products, appliances and equipment.
3. Learn how UD is applicable to technology (i.e. IOT, ICT, Assistive Tech).
4. Discover how UD is applicable to planning and design.
5. Learn how to adapt design to improve upon unfavorable dynamics, expediency in regulatory approvals and reduce life cycle cost. 

CE: 1 LU | HSW

Architectural Exposed Long Span Acoustical Decking

September 11, 2025 | 12:00 - 1:00 pm

This webinar, presented by Epic Metals, will cover Structural Long Span Decking along with Exterior Cladding Materials, Screening and an Interior Cloud System.

Learning Objectives

1. What is an Architectural deck versus commodity deck (N-deck and B-deck).
2. Compare metal deck systems enabling creation of lightweight open spaces with minimal structural elements.
3. How roof and floor metal deck systems enhance sustainability by reducing environmental impact and embodied carbon.
4. Advantage of factory finishes and the environmental impact.
5. How architectural deck systems can provide exceptional acoustic properties.
6. How to integrate utilities within architectural decks.
7. The importance of incorporating air control system and effects on the building environment.
8. Long-span architectural grillage systems to reduce thermal load, structural elements, costs and pest potential.

Design Tactics for Stone Masonry Products

Thursday, July 24, 2025 | 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm

This program will explore how to effectively design masonry walls using proper design techniques focusing on the prevention of moisture, cracking and cleaning issues. This building design focus is on planning and designing sound masonry walls using proper architectural structural components based on industry guidelines and specifications. Attendees will learn why walls crack, differential movement and how to design to eliminate unnecessary repairs and maintenance.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify causes of cracking in masonry and its effect on structural performance
2. Discuss how to control cracking using reinforcement, control joints and joint sealant design
3. Demonstrate proper detailing methods and procedures for moisture prevention
4. Discuss advantages and benefits of using Manufactured Masonry Stone Product

Considerations for Safe & Compliant Pipes in Plenum Space

 July 16, 2025 | 12:00 - 1:00 pm

Plenum spaces in buildings are often out of sight but shouldn't be out of mind. These areas house critical infrastructure like piping, wiring, and HVAC systems, systems that directly affect occupant health, fire safety, and long-term durability. This session explores the material selection challenges architects and engineers face when designing piping systems in plenums. Using case studies, code reviews, and technical insights, it uncovers health and safety risks, as well as legal liabilities, that piping can pose. It also provides recommendations to meet performance standards and sustainability goals.

1. Identify fire-safety risks associated with piping materials used in plenum spaces and explain how material combustibility influences code compliance and occupant protection.
2. Assess long-term risks to occupant health and building resilience based on the chemical, thermal and structural performance of piping systems.
3. Compare lifecycle sustainability impacts of pipe materials, with a focus on recyclability, embodied carbon and other sustainability requirements.
4. Understand the legal and insurance implications of material choices in plenums, including how failures can shift liability to design teams or contractors.

CE: 1 LU | HSW

A Range of Rainscreens 

Selecting the appropriate moisture management system for the building envelope can be a daunting task. Determining the appropriate rainscreen application can be based on several contributing factors – climate, building codes, cladding, and a variety others. This course will explore the importance of rainscreens as a moisture management solution, as well as the characteristics of the assortment of applications.

Learning Objectives

1. Understand the performance characteristics of rainscreens in the building envelope.
2. Recognize the characteristics and differences of "open" and "closed" rainscreens.
3. Understand and identify the installation applications of "open" and "closed" rainscreens.
4. Recognize the pre-installation considerations when choosing the appropriate rainscreen applications.

CE: 1 LU | HSW

 

Fire Safety in High Rise Buildings

One of the most complex and least understood areas where fire can propagate is at the perimeter of a multi-story building. Not only can fire spread from floor-to-floor via the edge-of-slab/curtain wall intersections but also along the exterior building enclosure where untested, combustible components are often installed. This program outlines best design practices for providing fire protection for building occupants per ASTM E2307 and E2874.

Learning Objectives

1. Participants will gain a stronger understanding of vertical fire spread in high rise buildings through use of visuals of actual fire case studies.
2. Participants will also learn how to identify proper wall design techniques that will help provide fire safety in multi-story wall applications based on presenter showing common curtain wall construction and special conditions detailing.
3. Architects will also learn how common building materials, used in wall construction, behave when exposed to the rigors of fire per ASTM E2307. Presenter will provide outline based on fire testing and photos of actual curtain wall component failure.
4. Participants will be provided the information on the design criteria required for code compliant assemblies.

CE: 1 LU | HSW

 

Understanding Stone Wool (Mineral Wool) in Interior and Exterior Applications - Solutions for Thermal, Fire and Sound Control

The net energy savings realized in a properly insulated building are well understood. However, as design professionals strive to maximize thermal resistance, yet reduce mass in the wall assembly, insulation is increasingly being positioned in both the stud wall and the exterior side of the building envelope. This split insulation concept has introduced a number of design issues and concerns; particularly as relates to fire resistance, moisture management, and wall drying rates. This program focuses on the unique properties of stone wool insulation, and suggests how it can improve thermal, fire, water and sound suppression performance in a well detailed wall assembly.

Learning Objectives

1. Define and explain what stone wool insulation is and how it is manufactured.
2. Identify the differences between stone wool, glass fiber and foam insulations.
3. Explain the key features and value added benefits of stone wool.
4. Discuss the ecologically sustainable aspects of stone wool.
5. Illustrate applications for stone wool in commercial buildings and low slope roofing.
6. Comment on Code Changes to IBC Chapter 26 and testing standards for NFPA 285.

CE: 1 LU | HSW

February 20, 2025 - Glazing Strategies for Sound Control 

This course, presented by Chris Carpenter from Pella, examines the significance of sound control strategies and how they can improve the health and well-being of individuals by increasing comfort and workplace productivity, reducing stress, and allowing for proper rest.