The AIA National Convention and Expo is the design and building industry's mainstay for education, information and innovation. This year's convention - Carolinas2002, to be held May 9 to 11 in Charlotte, N.C. - continues that tradition with three theme sessions, 146 continuing education programs, 51 tours, 58 special events and added attractions and more than 500 leading-edge companies exhibiting valuable products and services.
The theme for Carolinas2002, DesignDesign, is about reassessing the business of architecture. Identifying and gaining the resources to meet the challenges and make the most of the opportunities in a complex world forever changed by the events of Sept. 11. Architecture is no longer just about issues of scale and character and livability. It's about addressing those issues while promising security and safety and durability: ensuring that people around the world are able to live, work, and play in environments that are diverse, innovative, exciting - and safe. There are three theme sessions. Thursday, May 9, features management guru Tom Peters; Friday, May 10, features financial figure Hugh McColl; Saturday, May 11, features a Gold Medalists Roundtable discussion.
Charlotte is the perfect setting for Carolinas2002. Located in the heart of the southern Piedmont between the mountains of Western North Carolina and the beaches of the Carolina coast, Charlotte is the largest city in North Carolina and the Queen City of the South. Charlotte is alive with arts, culture, and entertainment. From sports, including the NBA Hornets and the NFL's Carolina Panthers, to cultural centers, including the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, Discovery Place, and Mint Museums, to historic sites, including Charleston, S.C.; Old Salem, N.C.; and the Biltmore Estate, you'll find countless ways to spend your days. Both Carolinas are rich with fascinating places, and we've arranged tours to visit them all.
AIA Expo2002 will offer more than 580 exhibitors showcasing products, technology innovations, and services. There will also be six specialized Product Pavilions: High-Tech, Stone and Tile, Lighting, Fabric Architecture, Restoration Products, and Green Products to make shopping the floor even easier. The New Product & Technology Center will display many of the cutting-edge technologies and products that will shape the future of the design industry.
Register before April 12 and save $100 off the onsite registration fee. For the most up-to-date convention information and to register online, visit www.aia.org. For information on attending the AIA 2002 National Convention and Expo, or for booking exhibit space at AIA Expo2002, call M½C Communications at (617) 859-4475. For more information about the American Institute of Architects, please call AIA Information Central at (800) 242-3837.
