SOM, in association with KPFF, PAE and Graham Baba, hosted a forum with Seattle’s small design business community to discuss meaningful collaboration and inclusion on large aviation projects. On November 9th, 2022, team members from projects at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, Kansas City International Airport, and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport gathered to share their experiences with creating symbiotic relationships with local small businesses. The group explored teaming strategies, scope definition, mentorship, and ongoing engagement beyond the timeline of a project.

Participants from SOM included Carrie Byles, Managing Partner; Eric Long, Structural Engineering Partner; Rupa Garai, Structural Engineer and Senior Associate Principal; Jordan Pierce, Associate Principal; Jack Parker, Associate Principal; Kirtan Patel, Senior Associate Principal; Chris Kimball, Associate; and Burcin Moehring, Associate.