On March 11, the AIANY WIA and Diversity and Inclusion Committees co-hosted an engaging Architectural Practice Panel: Navigating the MWBE Process — at the Center for Architecture. The panelists — Dynishal Gross, Deputy Commissioner, NYC Department of Small Business; Patricia Harris, Esq. LEED AP, CEO and Founder, LicenseSure LLC; Abner Larrieux, President, A.L. Consulting and Wayne Benjamin, RA, AIA, Chief of Job Order Contracting, DASNY offered invaluable insight, as well as practical guidelines and resources for navigating the MWBE process. Nancy Goshow, AIA, Partner, Goshow Architects, an MWBE firm, skillfully moderated the panel which allowed for a candid, compelling and informative discussion, creating access to the audience on a topic that can be overwhelming and intimidating. We share a common goal to support MWBE-certified firms from qualification to procurement. MWBE firms expand opportunities for women and minorities and are making a difference in diversifying professionals hired for projects in New York City. On behalf of the Diversity and Inclusion and Women in Architecture committees, we appreciate everyone’s contributions to this effort.

The AIANY chapter is continuing to work on issues faced by MWBE firms. We hope this will be the start of a larger conversation.