AIA Florida Northwest upcoming events

PensaCAN 2026 Registration (Tuesday, June 16, 2026)

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Registration Open!

Calling all CANchitects and CANgineers! Assemble your build team and help us Demolish Hunger, Design Hope in this year's PensaCAN competition.

PensaCAN is a competition where teams create impressive structures made entirely out of full cans of food. Following a week-long display of the structures and voting, all food is then donated to Manna for distribution to our neighbors in need in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.

Registration is open to ANYONE...architects, intern architects, engineers, designers, contractors, local businesses, professors, teachers, students, or anybody, anywhere, that wants to form a team and help the local community.

Do not have a team but still want to build? Register as an individual and we will match you up with a team!

The display and on-site location is the Cordova Mall, but off-site and digital builds can take place anywhere (just follow the directions/requirements on the Info Packet Coversheet and Judging Guidelines...both downloadable below).

Awards will be presented in eight categories.

Not a builder but still want to help? Great sponsorships are available (read on below), or you can make a donation HERE (use the "in honor of" field and type "PensaCAN").

Help us break 20,000 meals this year!

Builder Information:

View the PensaCAN Info Packet Coversheet HERE.
View the 2026 Judging & Awards Guidelines HERE.
Food Item List is available HERE.
Food Order Form is available HERE.

***Teams are welcome to purchase their food from any vendor. However, if you want the food picked up by Manna and delivered directly to Cordova Mall on Build Day, you must use the attached food items list and order form.

***Digital build teams that would like to purchase food worth the value of their build and donate it to Manna should use the Food Order Form and send to Manna with payment by September 10.

Sponsor Information:

View the 2026 PensaCAN Sponsors Info Packet HERE
Click HERE to make online sponsorship. Use the "in honor of" field to list which build team the money should sponsor (IE "XYZ PensaCAN team")

2026 PensaCAN Dates:

Food Order Forms Due: Thursday, September 10, 5:00 pm
Build Team Registration Closes: Thursday, September 10, 5:00 pm
Sponsor Forms & Logos Due: Thursday, September 10, 5:00 pm
Digital & Off-site Build Images Due: Thursday, September 10, 5:00 pm
On-site Build Date: Thursday, October 1, Cordova Mall
Judging: Friday, October 2
Display Dates: Friday, October 2 thru Friday, October 9
Take Down: Saturday, October 10, 7:00 am
Awards Ceremony: Tuesday, October 13, Culinary Productions

Small Firm Exchange (Tuesday, August 11, 2026)

Tue, 11 Aug 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Small firms represent a significant portion of the Panhandle's architectural landscape. However, the diverse roles that small firm owners and employees often take on can lead to their interests being overlooked and their contributions undervalued. This collaborative event aims to connect small firms to discuss their needs and create a supportive environment for social interaction and collaboration—an opportunity often taken for granted in larger firms.

Our Goals:

Advocate for Small Firms: We aim to promote the value of small firms both within the AIA and to the public, advancing the mutual interests of architects practicing in smaller settings.
Foster Idea Exchange: We seek to establish a safe space for sharing ideas and information, helping all small firms thrive and discover new ways to engage clients.
Build a Collaborative Community: We envision a community where small firms can come together socially, discuss challenges and successes, and collaborate on projects or designs when a single firm may find a task too daunting.

Join us for this discussion to explore how we can strengthen our community and elevate our collective goals and interests.

Tuesday, August 11

12 - 1 p.m.

Pensacola Library

Conference Room

239 N Spring St

*This event is not sponsored or endorsed by the West Florida Public Libraries or Escambia County.

Please RSVP!

Thank you to our sponsor!

August CE Lunch Meeting - Pensacola (Tuesday, August 18, 2026)

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Pensacola CE Lunch Meeting

Presented by:

Exterior Cement Board Systems: Navigating Energy Codes with Continuous Insulation

NGC076

1 LU/HSW

Explore the versatility of using cement boards in exterior applications with a focus on Cement Board Stucco Systems (CBSS) and Cement Board Masonry Veneer (CBMV) systems. This program highlights the integration of continuous insulation as an effective strategy for compliance with International Energy Conservation Code regulations. Gain insights into the components, intricacies and performance advantages of CBSS and CBMV systems, emphasizing occupant comfort and energy efficiency.

Evaluate the differences between Cement Board Masonry Veneer systems and traditional masonry veneer installation techniques, focusing on their respective impacts on building energy usage.
Discover how to utilize continuous insulation with Cement Board Masonry and Cement Board Stucco systems to enhance occupant comfort and meet code requirements.
Review reduced material costs and environmental impacts of Cement Board Masonry Veneer systems compared to traditional masonry veneer systems.
Explore the performance features of Cement Board Stucco Systems with continuous insulation compared to traditional stucco systems and evaluate their potential for simplified installation.

Tuesday, August 18

12:00 pm

Bowden Building, Room 1
120 Church St

CEU Lunch Meetings are a benefit of membership in AIA Florida Northwest

Any non-member attending will be charged $20 for cost of lunch.

Registration for the event is required, any member who wishes to attend and did not register for the event will be charged $10 for lunch.

Please register by August 16 to reserve your lunch.

August CE Lunch Meeting - Panama City (Wednesday, August 19, 2026)

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Panama City CE Lunch Meeting

Sponsored by:

Exterior Cement Board Systems: Navigating Energy Codes with Continuous Insulation

NGC076

1 LU/HSW

Evaluate the differences between Cement Board Masonry Veneer systems and traditional masonry veneer installation techniques, focusing on their respective impacts on building energy usage.
Discover how to utilize continuous insulation with Cement Board Masonry and Cement Board Stucco systems to enhance occupant comfort and meet code requirements.
Review reduced material costs and environmental impacts of Cement Board Masonry Veneer systems compared to traditional masonry veneer systems.
Explore the performance features of Cement Board Stucco Systems with continuous insulation compared to traditional stucco systems and evaluate their potential for simplified installation.

Wednesday, August 19

12:00 pm

Bay County Chamber of Commerce
Boardroom, 235 W 5th St

Panama City, FL 32401

CEU Lunch Meetings are a benefit of membership in AIA Florida Northwest

Any non-member attending will be charged $20 for cost of lunch.

Registration for the event is required, any member who wishes to attend and did not register for the event will be charged $10 for lunch.

Please register by August 16 to reserve your lunch.

August CE Lunch Meeting - Destin (Thursday, August 20, 2026)

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Destin CE Lunch Meeting

Presented by:

Exterior Cement Board Systems: Navigating Energy Codes with Continuous Insulation

NGC076

1 LU/HSW

Evaluate the differences between Cement Board Masonry Veneer systems and traditional masonry veneer installation techniques, focusing on their respective impacts on building energy usage.
Discover how to utilize continuous insulation with Cement Board Masonry and Cement Board Stucco systems to enhance occupant comfort and meet code requirements.
Review reduced material costs and environmental impacts of Cement Board Masonry Veneer systems compared to traditional masonry veneer systems.
Explore the performance features of Cement Board Stucco Systems with continuous insulation compared to traditional stucco systems and evaluate their potential for simplified installation.

Thursday, August 20

12:00 pm

DAG Architects
1223 Airport Rd, Destin

CEU Lunch Meetings are a benefit of membership in AIA Florida Northwest

Any non-member attending will be charged $20 for cost of lunch.

Registration for the event is required, any member who wishes to attend and did not register for the event will be charged $10 for lunch.

Please register by August 16 to reserve your lunch.

Costera Project Tour (Thursday, August 27, 2026)

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Join us and the architect of record (WHLC Architecture) as we visit the Florida Panhandle’s most distinctive Gulf-front developments during an exclusive hard hat tour of Costera on 30A. Designed as an intimate collection of just ten luxury residences across two phases, Costera pairs refined coastal architecture with thoughtfully integrated modern amenities and WELL Certified design strategies that support occupant health, comfort, and well-being.

Attendees will explore the architectural vision behind the development, including its response to a constrained Gulf-front site, integration of expansive views and natural light, elevated material palette, and balance of privacy, luxury, and connection to the coastal landscape.

The site will remain under active construction during the tour, offering architects a rare opportunity to observe two buildings at different stages of completion. Participants will be able to compare construction sequencing, assemblies, systems coordination, and the progression from structure and enclosure to interior detailing and finishes.

This one-of-a-kind development is setting a new benchmark for luxury, wellness-focused multifamily design along the Florida Panhandle. Closed-toe shoes and appropriate attire for an active construction site will be required. PPE will not be provided.

Thursday, August 27

4 PM

4228 E County Hwy 30A

Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

Free for Members

$20 for Non-Members

September CE Lunch Meeting - Pensacola (Tuesday, September 15, 2026)

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Pensacola CE Lunch Meeting

Presented by:

Course TBA

Tuesday, September 15

12:00 pm

Bowden Building, Room 1
120 Church St

CEU Lunch Meetings are a benefit of membership in AIA Florida Northwest

Any non-member attending will be charged $20 for cost of lunch.

Registration for the event is required, any member who wishes to attend and did not register for the event will be charged $10 for lunch.

Please register by September 13 to reserve your lunch.

September CE Lunch Meeting - Panama City (Wednesday, September 16, 2026)

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Panama City CE Lunch Meeting

Sponsored by:

Course TBA

Wednesday, September 16

12:00 pm

Bay County Chamber of Commerce
Boardroom, 235 W 5th St

Panama City, FL 32401

CEU Lunch Meetings are a benefit of membership in AIA Florida Northwest

Any non-member attending will be charged $20 for cost of lunch.

Registration for the event is required, any member who wishes to attend and did not register for the event will be charged $10 for lunch.

Please register by September 13 to reserve your lunch.

September CE Lunch Meeting - Destin (Thursday, September 17, 2026)

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Destin CE Lunch Meeting

Presented by:

Course TBA

Thursday, September 17

12:00 pm

DAG Architects
1223 Airport Rd, Destin

CEU Lunch Meetings are a benefit of membership in AIA Florida Northwest

Any non-member attending will be charged $20 for cost of lunch.

Registration for the event is required, any member who wishes to attend and did not register for the event will be charged $10 for lunch.

Please register by September 13 to reserve your lunch.

2026 AIA Florida Northwest Design & Honor Awards Reception (Thursday, September 17, 2026)

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Thursday, September 17, 2026

Culinary Productions, Inc.
201 E Wright St
Pensacola, FL 32501

Reception begins at 6 p.m.

Program to begin at 7 p.m.

Individual Tickets: $70
5 Tickets: $300

Dress is Cocktail/Cocktail Casual

Plenty of parking is available street-level at the venue and on E. Wright St. View free parking spaces HERE.

_____________________________________________

Sponsor registration is now open!

All sponsor logos and ad graphics are due to admin@aianwfl.com by August 27.

Platinum Sponsor $750

This sponsorship is an opportunity to be a headlining sponsor of the event.

As a sponsor of the reception, your company will be featured on individual signage at the event. You will also have to opportunity to set up a table display during the event on September 17, 2026, and be given the opportunity to address the entire membership in attendance during the event.

Other benefits:

Two tickets for the evening’s event.
Full-page advertisement in evening program booklet.
Company logo on all materials for the event, chapter website, and all promotional emails.
Display table.

Gold Sponsor $500

As a gold sponsor, your company is an exclusive table sponsor for the evening. Signage for your company will be placed on a table at the reception.

Other benefits:

One Ticket for the evening’s event.
Half-page advertisement in evening program booklet.
Company logo on all materials for the event, chapter website, and all promotional emails.

Silver Sponsor $250

This sponsorship includes:

One Ticket for the evening’s event.
Quarter-Page advertisement in evening program booklet.
Company logo on all materials for the event, chapter website, and all promotional emails.

Program Ads

View ad specs HERE

Quarter-page ad - $150
Half-page ad - $300
Full-page ad - $500

Thank you to our sponsors!

Platinum Sponsors

Gold Sponsors

PensaCAN 2026 Exhibit (Friday, October 02, 2026)

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 14:00:00 GMT

October 2-9

Cordova Mall

5100 N 9th Ave

Pensacola, FL 32504

Join us as we partner with Manna for PensaCAN 2026! The event is hosted by Cordova Mall - A Simon Mall.

PensaCAN is a competition where teams create impressive structures made entirely out of full cans of food.

Following a week-long display of the structures (and posters with images of digital designs) and voting, all food is then donated to Manna for distribution to our neighbors in need in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.

Food structures will be built at Cordova Mall in the common area between Dillard’s and Ross on Thursday, October 1, and will be on display through Friday, October 9.

A panel of judges will vote on the structures on Friday, October 2, in categories such as Best Graphics, Best Nutrition, and Structural Ingenuity Award.

You can get involved too! People’s Choice Award votes will be accepted online at www.mannahelps.org October 2-9!

Come out to Cordova Mall and support our local architects and build teams in the fight against hunger!

Armstrong Happy Hour Event (Wednesday, October 07, 2026)

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 22:00:00 GMT

HAPPY HOUR EVENT

Details coming soon!

Wednesday, October 7

5 - 7 PM

Odd Colony Brewing Co.

260 N Palafox St

Pensacola, FL 32502

Free for Members

$20 for Non-members

PensaCAN 2026 Awards Ceremony (Tuesday, October 13, 2026)

Tue, 13 Oct 2026 21:45:00 GMT

Join us as we celebrate another successful PensaCAN!

October 13

4:45 - 6 p.m.

Culinary Productions

201 E Wright St

Pensacola, FL 32502

Free to attend!

October CE Lunch Meeting - Pensacola (Tuesday, October 20, 2026)

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Pensacola CE Lunch Meeting

Presented by:

Improved Natural Disaster Design Using Rolling Doors

Course Number COR800

1 HSW

Course Description

Learn how different closure options can protect a building while also keeping natural light flow; how service, insulated and fire doors can be configured to withstand the full range of specific wind loads requirements (including missile impact ratings); and the importance of third party testing for closure products. Attendees will:

Understand the difference between operable and static wind load ratings, and what it means for the rest of the building.
Understand new regulations, particularly those recently introduced in the mid-states, including FEMA P-361 and ICC500.
Detail the importance of fortifying building openings in wind-prone areas.
Identify how necessary function can meet aesthetic objectives using coiling doors vs. traditional swing doors.

Tuesday, October 20

12:00 pm

Bowden Building, Room 1
120 Church St

CEU Lunch Meetings are a benefit of membership in AIA Florida Northwest

Any non-member attending will be charged $20 for cost of lunch.

Registration for the event is required, any member who wishes to attend and did not register for the event will be charged $10 for lunch.

Please register by October 18 to reserve your lunch.

October CE Lunch Meeting - Panama City (Wednesday, October 21, 2026)

Wed, 21 Oct 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Panama City CE Lunch Meeting

Sponsored by:

Improved Natural Disaster Design Using Rolling Doors

Course Number COR800

1 HSW

Course Description

Understand the difference between operable and static wind load ratings, and what it means for the rest of the building.
Understand new regulations, particularly those recently introduced in the mid-states, including FEMA P-361 and ICC500.
Detail the importance of fortifying building openings in wind-prone areas.
Identify how necessary function can meet aesthetic objectives using coiling doors vs. traditional swing doors.

Wednesday, October 21

12:00 pm

Bay County Chamber of Commerce
Boardroom, 235 W 5th St

Panama City, FL 32401

CEU Lunch Meetings are a benefit of membership in AIA Florida Northwest

Any non-member attending will be charged $20 for cost of lunch.

Registration for the event is required, any member who wishes to attend and did not register for the event will be charged $10 for lunch.

Please register by October 18 to reserve your lunch.

October CE Lunch Meeting - Destin (Thursday, October 22, 2026)

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Destin CE Lunch Meeting

Presented by:

Improved Natural Disaster Design Using Rolling Doors

Course Number COR800

1 HSW

Course Description

Understand the difference between operable and static wind load ratings, and what it means for the rest of the building.
Understand new regulations, particularly those recently introduced in the mid-states, including FEMA P-361 and ICC500.
Detail the importance of fortifying building openings in wind-prone areas.
Identify how necessary function can meet aesthetic objectives using coiling doors vs. traditional swing doors.

Thursday, October 22

12:00 pm

DAG Architects
1223 Airport Rd, Destin

CEU Lunch Meetings are a benefit of membership in AIA Florida Northwest

Any non-member attending will be charged $20 for cost of lunch.

Registration for the event is required, any member who wishes to attend and did not register for the event will be charged $10 for lunch.

Please register by October 18 to reserve your lunch.

November CE Lunch Meeting - Pensacola (Tuesday, November 17, 2026)

Tue, 17 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Pensacola CE Lunch Meeting

Presented by:

Sink Selection for Sustainability & Accessibility

Course Number

K2307U

1 AIA HSW/LU

Also provides credit for

USGBC

IDCEC (ASID, IDC, IDEC, IIDA)

This course reviews restroom design trends for commercial buildings by focusing on sink/lavatory system technology and the sustainability and accessibility trends surrounding them. The program will discuss the expanding role architects and designers play in accessible designs – striking a balance between hand washing needs and design flexibility. The program compares a variety of sink/lavatory systems and corresponding components. It discusses how each component can enhance the sustainably of hand washing functions while still providing style within a space. Additionally, the course will cover appropriate ADA, LEED, and Wellness design criteria.

Tuesday, November 17

12:00 pm

Bowden Building, Room 1
120 Church St

CEU Lunch Meetings are a benefit of membership in AIA Florida Northwest

Any non-member attending will be charged $20 for cost of lunch.

Registration for the event is required, any member who wishes to attend and did not register for the event will be charged $10 for lunch.

Please register by November 15 to reserve your lunch.

November CE Lunch Meeting - Panama City (Wednesday, November 18, 2026)

Wed, 18 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Panama City CE Lunch Meeting

Sponsored by:

Sink Selection for Sustainability & Accessibility

Course Number

K2307U

1 AIA HSW/LU

Also provides credit for

USGBC

IDCEC (ASID, IDC, IDEC, IIDA)

Wednesday, November 18

12:00 pm

Bay County Chamber of Commerce
Boardroom, 235 W 5th St

Panama City, FL 32401

CEU Lunch Meetings are a benefit of membership in AIA Florida Northwest

Any non-member attending will be charged $20 for cost of lunch.

Registration for the event is required, any member who wishes to attend and did not register for the event will be charged $10 for lunch.

Please register by November 15 to reserve your lunch.

November CE Lunch Meeting - Destin (Thursday, November 19, 2026)

Thu, 19 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Destin CE Lunch Meeting

Presented by:

Sink Selection for Sustainability & Accessibility

Course Number

K2307U

1 AIA HSW/LU

Also provides credit for

USGBC

IDCEC (ASID, IDC, IDEC, IIDA)

Thursday, November 19

12:00 pm

DAG Architects
1223 Airport Rd, Destin

CEU Lunch Meetings are a benefit of membership in AIA Florida Northwest

Any non-member attending will be charged $20 for cost of lunch.

Registration for the event is required, any member who wishes to attend and did not register for the event will be charged $10 for lunch.

Please register by November 15 to reserve your lunch.

December CE Lunch Meeting - Pensacola (Tuesday, December 15, 2026)

Tue, 15 Dec 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Pensacola CE Lunch Meeting

Presented by:

Enhancing Outdoor Living - Current Trends

& The Role of Aluminum Shade Structures

1 HSW/LU

Course Description

This course delves into the increasing and expanding role of outdoor living and its importance in households, businesses, and communities. Reviewed are the styles and specification considerations of aluminum shading products. The focus is pergolas and cabanas, made with insulated, dual-walled aluminum louvers that seal completely to block rain and snow and complement any architectural style.

Learning Objectives:

Examine the current trends in outdoor living, including using outdoor spaces as an extension of indoor activities like socializing, cooking, and entertaining.
State how modern aluminum cover structures for residential and commercial applications have been adapted to bioclimatic designs that leverage an eco-conscious approach.
Discuss the role of pergolas and cabanas in expanding livable spaces, enhancing year-round outdoor living, and improving occupant comfort and wellness.
Describe the materials, styles, and specification considerations for shade structures to ensure a durable, low-maintenance, long-lasting solution.

Tuesday, December 15

12:00 pm

Bowden Building, Room 1
120 Church St

CEU Lunch Meetings are a benefit of membership in AIA Florida Northwest

Any non-member attending will be charged $20 for cost of lunch.

Registration for the event is required, any member who wishes to attend and did not register for the event will be charged $10 for lunch.

Please register by December 13 to reserve your lunch.

December CE Lunch Meeting - Panama City (Wednesday, December 16, 2026)

Wed, 16 Dec 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Panama City CE Lunch Meeting

Sponsored by:

Enhancing Outdoor Living - Current Trends

& The Role of Aluminum Shade Structures

1 HSW/LU

Course Description

Learning Objectives:

Examine the current trends in outdoor living, including using outdoor spaces as an extension of indoor activities like socializing, cooking, and entertaining.
State how modern aluminum cover structures for residential and commercial applications have been adapted to bioclimatic designs that leverage an eco-conscious approach.
Discuss the role of pergolas and cabanas in expanding livable spaces, enhancing year-round outdoor living, and improving occupant comfort and wellness.
Describe the materials, styles, and specification considerations for shade structures to ensure a durable, low-maintenance, long-lasting solution.

Wednesday, December 16

12:00 pm

Bay County Chamber of Commerce
Boardroom, 235 W 5th St

Panama City, FL 32401

CEU Lunch Meetings are a benefit of membership in AIA Florida Northwest

Any non-member attending will be charged $20 for cost of lunch.

Registration for the event is required, any member who wishes to attend and did not register for the event will be charged $10 for lunch.

Please register by December 13 to reserve your lunch.

December CE Lunch Meeting - Destin (Thursday, December 17, 2026)

Thu, 17 Dec 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Destin CE Lunch Meeting

Presented by:

Enhancing Outdoor Living - Current Trends

& The Role of Aluminum Shade Structures

1 HSW/LU

Course Description

Learning Objectives:

Examine the current trends in outdoor living, including using outdoor spaces as an extension of indoor activities like socializing, cooking, and entertaining.
State how modern aluminum cover structures for residential and commercial applications have been adapted to bioclimatic designs that leverage an eco-conscious approach.
Discuss the role of pergolas and cabanas in expanding livable spaces, enhancing year-round outdoor living, and improving occupant comfort and wellness.
Describe the materials, styles, and specification considerations for shade structures to ensure a durable, low-maintenance, long-lasting solution.

Thursday, December 17

12:00 pm

DAG Architects
1223 Airport Rd, Destin

CEU Lunch Meetings are a benefit of membership in AIA Florida Northwest

Any non-member attending will be charged $20 for cost of lunch.

Registration for the event is required, any member who wishes to attend and did not register for the event will be charged $10 for lunch.

Please register by December 13 to reserve your lunch.