Converge: Supporting Emerging Design Professionals

On Tuesday, April 14th, Dacor Kitchen Theater hosted CONVERGE: Emerging Professionals in Architecture and Design — an event focused on connecting designers in the early stages of their careers.

The evening brought together a small group of invited professionals with fewer than five years in the field, representing organizations including IIDA, ASID, IDS, IFDA NY, and NKBA. It created an opportunity to connect across disciplines and begin building relationships early in one’s career.

Guests were welcomed by the Dacor team, including Keith Jones and Paula Smith, in a setting that felt both warm and accessible. The tone carried throughout the evening, beginning with a keynote from Vicente Wolf, whose reflections on decades in design emphasized the importance of community, trusted resources, and staying engaged in the profession.

Each organization then shared insight into how they support designers over time. Representing NKBA Manhattan, I spoke to the value of education, mentorship, and ongoing industry connection — and how those resources continue to shape both individual careers and the profession as a whole.

The most valuable part of the evening, however, came after the presentations. Attendees had the opportunity to speak directly with organization representatives and connect with one another in a more informal setting. For many, this kind of access can make a meaningful difference early on, when building a network can feel intimidating.

Events like this reinforce something we see often in practice: design is not a solitary profession. It relies on shared knowledge, collaboration, and a willingness to stay connected.

It was a thoughtful and well-executed evening — and a strong example of how the design community continues to support emerging professionals.