September 27, 2025
AIA Appoints Carole Wedge CEO After Turbulent Chapter
Former Shepley Bulfinch chief to steer Institute past months of scrutiny and transition
In a measured but meaningful decision, the American Institute of Architects has appointed Carole Wedge, FAIA, NOMA, LEED AP, as its next Executive Vice President and CEO, effective January 1, 2026. The announcement came on September 26, with the AIA Board of Directors voting unanimously in her favor.
Wedge’s appointment follows a challenging 18 months for the Institute. In June 2024, a Bloomberg investigation detailed allegations of financial impropriety and internal retaliation under then-CEO Lakisha Ann Woods. That story, coupled with an April 2024 letter signed by 23 past AIA presidents, set off a wave of scrutiny. Woods officially resigned in February 2025. Since then, former Architect of the Capitol Stephen Ayers has served as interim CEO, while a national search—conducted by Heidrick & Struggles—quietly unfolded behind the scenes.
The selection of Wedge suggests a strategic return to mission. A longtime AIA member and widely respected figure in the field, Wedge is best known for her 17-year tenure as CEO of Boston-based Shepley Bulfinch, a national design firm with roots dating back over 150 years. The firm—woman-led, sustainability-focused, and deeply committed to social equity—reflects many of the same values AIA now seeks to reinforce.
At Shepley Bulfinch, Wedge was credited with leading a national expansion and spearheading a cultural transformation. She fostered a collaborative studio environment, drove an organizational rebrand, and built a leadership model rooted in curiosity, inclusion, and integrity. Under her guidance, the firm became a signatory to the AIA 2030 Challenge and a corporate member of the U.S. Green Building Council—concrete evidence of its long-term commitment to environmental stewardship.
“Carole brings not only deep architectural experience, but also a clear and tested leadership philosophy,” said 2025 AIA President Evelyn Lee. “She understands that design is about people—and that our profession must meet this moment with both creativity and accountability.”
Wedge, for her part, struck a characteristically grounded tone. “I am honored to lead AIA at this pivotal time,” she said. “My focus is on growing our community, elevating design, and ensuring that architects continue to make a positive, lasting impact.”
She begins transitioning into the role this December.
