In an era defined by unprecedented challenges – from shifting political landscapes and climate-driven disasters to housing crises and technological disruption – we as planning, design, and community development professionals find ourselves at the intersection of mounting pressures and uncertainty. Yet it's precisely during these uncertain times that we need to double down on our commitment to our work and building resilient and equitable communities. This Speaker Series will bring together diverse voices from across disciplines and industries to explore how we can transform these challenges into opportunities for positive change. Join us as we share our stories and innovative solutions that are helping communities thrive in the face of uncertainty and discover how we can work together, and be leaders to create meaningful and lasting change in the places we serve.

All sessions will be held from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Please check in prior to 9:30 a.m
Join us for networking after each session from 11:30 a.m. to Noon
West Sacramento Community Center, 1075 West Capitol Avenue, West Sacramento
Free parking at 1271 West Capitol Avenue (behind Walgreens)

We hope you can join us in person, but we will have a live streaming option for all sessions at the same price as attending in person.

Session 5: Stop Planning to Use AI. Start Using AI to Plan.

Friday, October 24 – Hosted by APA
Panelists: Nathaniel Redmond, Senior Planner, Green DOT; Representative from Social Pinpoint (invited)
Moderator: Mike Parker, AICP, Principal, Ascent

Click here to download the presentation.

As planners face accelerating change and mounting uncertainty, artificial intelligence (AI) offers both promising tools and complex challenges. This session will demystify AI, introduce practical tools already reshaping planning work, and explore the ethical questions and fears that come with emerging technologies. With a focus on working smarter—not harder—participants will see live demonstrations of AI capabilities and leave with insights on how to use AI thoughtfully and responsibly to strengthen their impact in a rapidly evolving world.

Session 3: Safe and Equitable Transportation

Friday, August 22 – Hosted by ULI 
Panelists: Simeon Gant, Executive Director, Green Technical Education & Employment; Chris Flores, Chief of Staff/VP Real Estate & TOD, Sacramento Regional Transit District; Rosie Ramos, External Relations Lead, SACOG
Moderator: Kiara Reed, Executive Director, Civic Thread

Click here to download the presentation.

As wildfires grow more intense, designing in California’s Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) demands informed, resilient solutions. This session explores key WUI codes—especially Chapter 7A of the California Building Code—and offers practical strategies for compliance. Learn from real-world examples and gain insights on ignition-resistant materials, construction techniques, and design best practices to create safer, code-compliant buildings in fire-prone zones. Whether you're designing homes, public facilities, or community plans, this session equips you to build at the edge with confidence.

Session 2: Advancing Equity Through Mobility Zones

Friday, July 25, 2025
Panelists: Kiara Reed, Executive Director, Civic Thread; Lovedeep Bains, Community Engagement Coordinator, California Health Collaborative
Panelist/Moderator: Kathleen Aziz, Principal Planner, SACOG

Click here to download the presentation.

SACOG’s Mobility Zones uses a co-creation model and place-based approach to improve transportation within the Sacramento region’s diverse communities. The structure empowers community members as experts in the transportation needs of their neighborhoods, and fosters community-government partnership by bringing those leaders together to guide the direction of projects. Hear from the program leaders on how they’ve built this project from the ground up and the lessons learned along the way.