2023 Workshops
AB Show's workshops get right to the heart of what matters most to you on the job. Workshops are a great opportunity to dig in deep and learn from the experts.
Registration for the tours and workshops can be done as an add-on while registering for the conference.
Wednesday, November 1
9:00am-12:00pm
Inclusive Design: Better Opportunities and Solutions for All
In our roles as operators and designers, we are responsible for buildings, spaces and programs that touch people daily. As shapers of the public realm, it is our responsibility to ensure that these spaces can be experienced and enjoyed by all. This is the core of Inclusive Design—the commitment that our facilities will improve the health and wellbeing of all by providing safe, welcoming, and inclusive amenities for every person, regardless of age, gender-identity, race, religion, or ability. We must move traditional thinking beyond compliance and into opportunity. By designing for those that are often overlooked or excluded, we design for all.
This session will provide an overview of basic principles for Inclusive Design and their importance across a range of project types. From inclusive strategies around community engagement and programming, to design decisions informed by public health data and the opportunities Inclusive Design presents to positively impact an organization's bottom line, we will explore how these principles can be applied more broadly to improve equity in design. We will also cover general planning principles for the design and operation of inclusive restrooms and locker rooms, which are becoming increasingly popular in recreation and athletic facilities.
Faculty: Adam Bastjan, Associate Principal, Kahler Slater, Damian Buchman, Founder & CEO, The Ability Center, Dylan Fischer, Project Designer / Associate, Kahler Slater, Jeff Piette, Vice President, Kahler Slater
Cost: $75
9:00am-12:00pm
Efficient Use of Resources when Revitalizing Aging Assets: A Case Study of the City of Baltimore’s Aquatic Renovations
In 2019, the City of Baltimore and Aquatic Design Group along with our partners began a comprehensive needs assessment study for all of the City’s 21 aquatic facilities. Our team completed a comprehensive analysis of the condition of these aging, historic, and often poorly maintained pools and to identify any code violations, structural deficiencies, and mechanical or electrical issues that needed to be addressed. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the team successfully completed the project in less than 18 months, and in the summer of 2020 provided recommended improvements for pool rehabilitation, including opportunities for energy-saving retrofits and practices. Following completion of the study, our team has moved forward with design improvements for three of the first improvement projects. By attending this session, participants will gain a better understanding of how to execute a large-scale study, assessment, and renovation project, and learn tips for overcoming common challenges. The session will also provide insights into best practices for identifying and addressing code violations and structural, mechanical, and electrical deficiencies in aquatic facilities.
Faculty: Matthew Ames, Associate, GWWO Architects, Adam Boarman, Chief of Capital Development, Baltimore City Recreation & Parks, Justin Caron, Principal/CEO, Aquatic Design Group
Cost: $75
1:00pm-4:00pm
From A to Z: A Deep Look at the Owner’s Role in Bringing a Project from Concept to Completion
The decision to renovate or build a new collegiate recreation and/or athletics building is a pivotal moment in every institution’s trajectory. There are numerous perspectives to consider, decisions to make and steps to take that can help ensure long-term success. For some, it’s an exciting once-in-a-career moment that can have generational impact.
This three-hour workshop will introduce leaders to the full continuum of the design process. Beginning with foundational decisions that can inform the selection of a design firm through every phase of project delivery: planning, campus and community engagement, design, graphics and wayfinding and much, much more. The speakers will walk through every ounce of successful project delivery and answer any question attendees have. Those who attend will leave more confident they can lead successful building projects at their institution.
Faculty: Joey Andrada, Vice President, CannonDesign, Jenny Delgado, Principal, CannonDesign, Colleen McKenna, Principal, Cannon Design
Cost: $75
1:00pm-4:00pm
Transitioning from Coworker to Manager: The Make-or-Break Stage of Talent Development
Moving from individual contributor to team leader creates a positive career trajectory toward professional growth. However, it is important to anticipate potential power struggles or hurt feelings over a promotion.
New managers can develop into high-performing leaders or flail and fail, costing the company hundreds of thousands of dollars. The course teaches what can be done to ensure a new manager success. The session is designed to equip front-line employees with the skills and knowledge required to transition into a manager role. Participants will learn how to develop their own leadership style, create a positive work environment, and effectively manage their teams.
Faculty: Ruby Newell-Legner, CSP, CVP, Customer Experience Design Consultant, 7 Star Service
Cost: $75
Registration for the tours and workshops can be done as an add-on while registering for the conference.
