Lakisha Ann Woods Named CEO of American Institute of Architects

Washington, DC, November 23, 2021-The American Institute of Architects (AIA) board of directors has selected Lakisha Ann Woods, CAE, as the next AIA executive vice president/chief executive officer, effective January 31, 2022.

Woods has held several significant leadership roles in the design and construction industry. She currently serves as the president & chief executive officer of the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS), which convenes experts from the building industry, design, government, and regulation to identify and develop solutions to critical issues impacting the built environment, including climate action, natural disasters, and inequity. While at NIBS, Woods expanded the organization’s programs and markets while also growing its relationships with its members, clients, partners, and public agencies, including the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, Federal Emergency Management Agency, and United States Army Corps of Engineers. Additionally, she led initiatives to address discrimination and improve equity in the building industry. Prior to NIBS, Woods served as the senior vice president & chief marketing officer with the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). While at NAHB, Woods led a team of 27 staff, oversaw a $54 million budget and was responsible for marketing and revenue-generating programs, sponsorships, partnerships with national firms and marketing the International Builders Show.

Woods also serves on the board of directors for several organizations. She is currently the 2021-2022 vice chair of the U.S. Green Building Council, 2021-2022 chair-elect of the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), and chair of the ASAE Foundation.

As AIA’s Executive Vice President/Chief Executive Officer, Woods will manage the national office in Washington, D.C., and oversee approximately 200 employees. She will also partner with the board of directors as well as work collaboratively with over 200 chapters nationwide and overseas to support AIA members and advance AIA’s strategic vision of driving positive change through the power of design.

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