Nicolas Turchi, Assistant Professor at the American University in Dubai (AUD), participated as a speaker at the Autodesk Design & Make Summit Middle East, a regional event bringing together professionals, educators, and industry leaders to discuss the future of design, technology, and the built environment.

During the summit, Turchi addressed the evolving role of design education in the context of artificial intelligence, focusing on how emerging technologies are influencing design thinking, decision-making, and creative processes. His contribution emphasized the role of academic institutions in preparing students to engage critically and responsibly with AI as part of contemporary design practice.

As part of the session, AUD architecture student Naya Sarraj joined the discussion to present a student perspective on how AI and digital tools are explored within the design studio and classroom at the AUD Department of Architecture. Her participation highlighted the integration of emerging technologies into architectural education and the importance of student engagement in shaping future design approaches.

The summit featured speakers from across the region and international design and technology communities, with discussions centered on AI, AECO industries, and education.