After graduating with her Architectural Design degree from James Madison University in 2020, Caitlin Morgan, Assoc. AIA, CSI-EP, entered the workforce in the midst of a global pandemic, when virtual networking and continuing education opportunities were still in their infancy. At that time, Caitlin experienced first-hand how professional development for emerging professionals was crucial to ensuring a successful early career. In 2021, Caitlin co-founded Emerge AEC, a virtual networking and education platform for professionals in architecture, engineering, construction, and AEC-related careers. Throughout the pandemic, Emerge AEC hosted networking and education sessions by industry leaders from across the nation that worked to “bridge the gap” between students and seasoned professionals in AEC. After also developing an online resource hub and “Career Spotlight” blog series, Emerge AEC presented at the 2022 and 2023 CSI National Conferences and the 2023 AEC Virginia Conference about how firms can better incorporate and support the next generation of architects and designers. Caitlin received the inaugural 2022 CSI National Outstanding Emerging Professional Award for her work in elevating fellow emerging professionals during the pandemic and is also the 2024 AIA Virginia Associates Award recipient. She is a project designer with Moseley Architects and proudly serves as the 2024 Virginia State Associates Representative (STAR) for the AIA National Associates Committee, after previously serving as the 2022-2023 Associates Director on the AIA Virginia Board of Directors.