209: ‘Leading by Connection: How TAP is Redefining Integration Across the AIA’, with Cesar Escalante
A conversation with Cesar Escalante leading by connection, Cesar Escalante discusses how AIA's Technology in Architectural Practice (TAP) is redefining integration across the architecture industry, focusing on sustainability and practical AI tools for small firms.
Cesar Escalante joins the podcast to talk about his journey from practicing architect and early CAD adopter to firm technologist and now national AIA leader shaped the way he’s guiding the AIA Technology in Architectural Practice (TAP) Knowledge Community today. The conversation centers on how TAP is creating new connections across the AIA, especially with the Committee on the Environment (COTE), to align technology, sustainability, and more. Evan and Cesar discuss the outcomes from TAP’s recent sold-out symposium, what these collaborations mean for the profession, and where the group is headed next year as they focus on turning those ideas into practical tools and frameworks that firms (especially small and medium-sized) can actually use.
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Episode Links:
Connect with the Guest
- Cesar Escalante, AIA, LEED AP — LinkedIn
- Autodesk — Website, LinkedIn, YouTube
- AIA Technology in Architectural Practice (TAP) — National leadership page
- AIA Knowledge Communities — Overview & how to join • TAP Forum • COTE Forum
AI Tools and Emerging Technologies
- Autodesk University: Digital Practice & Training Case Study
- Creating a Culture of Digital Literacy (Cody Winchester, AU 2024): Session page and handout (PDF).
- TRXL 173: ‘Raising Digital Literacy’, with Cody Winchester
- Dynamo (visual programming for AEC) — Official site & Primer · Community forum
- Embodied Carbon & LCA tools
- C.Scale: Platform
- EC3 (free, open-access embodied carbon tool): Building Transparency EC3
- One Click LCA: Platform • Revit integration
Visualization & Design Tools
- Rhino 3D + Grasshopper — Website • Rhino.Inside.Revit
- Autodesk Revit (BIM) — Product overview • Quick Start Guide
- LinkedIn Learning (AEC catalog) — Browse courses
Events and Networks
- Autodesk University — Homepage & on-demand keynotes/sessions
- Local TAP & COTE chapters — Examples: AIA San Francisco TAP, AIA Chicago TAP, COTE hub
Practice, Policy & Research
- NCARB Analysis of Practice (2023) — What firms expect from emerging professionals; adoption trends and skills signals. Full report (PDF) • NCARB data hub
Bonus: If you’re a small practice looking to modernize, start with EC3 (free), Dynamo (community-driven scripting), and Revit Quick Start Guide above; then explore AU on-demand sessions for “practical AI” workflows and local TAP/COTE meetups to compare notes with peers.
About Cesar Escalante:
As Autodesk's architecture innovation evangelist, Cesar leverages his two-decade career at industry leaders like Gensler, HOK, and Flad Architects to champion cutting-edge technologies. A deep passion for computational design and digital prototyping complements his expertise in delivering multi-billion-dollar projects. A recognized thought leader, Cesar shares his knowledge through speaking engagements and education while actively shaping the industry through leadership roles in the American Institute of Architects.
