Description:

Artificial intelligence is transforming the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry, yet many professionals remain uncertain about its practical applications. This panel discussion brings together healthcare owners and project delivery professionals to separate the hype from reality. The session will begin by clarifying what AI means for AEC beyond generative chat tools, followed by a data-driven snapshot of current adoption based on a pre-webinar survey of Academy members. Panelists will demonstrate the potential for AI applications in healthcare design and planning, and in particular, discuss how proper AI-assisted code compliance validation and space programming can ensure facilities meet regulatory requirements and support optimal clinical workflows. As AI tools can help identify design deficiencies earlier in the project lifecycle, firms may see a reduction in the number of costly changes thereby improving the overall quality of healthcare environments. The discussion will conclude with practical guidance on how owners and design teams can organize their historical project data today to unlock AI capabilities tomorrow while avoiding siloed point solutions. A live Q&A will ground the discussion in real project experience.

Presented in partnership with the AIA Academy of Architecture for Health, an AIA Knowledge Community.

Learning Objectives:

1. Define the core types of AI relevant to healthcare AEC and distinguish them from conventional digital tools.
2. Discern how AI-driven data platforms streamline early planning, ensure code-compliant designs, and support improved decisions.
3. Analyze survey findings to benchmark participants' own AI adoption against peer organizations.
4. Identify practical first steps for owners, architects, and engineers to prepare their data and teams for AI-enabled workflows. 

Speakers:

Priya Cherukuru, AICP

Vice President, Facilities Planning & Design, Planning Commissioner I Stanford Healthcare

Zigmund Rubel, FAIA

Co-Founder I Forsight Digital

Frank Thalakotur, PE

Founder & CEO I TableCalc

Senior Research Advisor I KP Reddy

Moderator