Todd Heiser: Membership is Power

Nov 20, 2023 By Jessica Jones

IIDA is a community connector—we have more power to shape the future together

By Jessica Jones Nov 20, 2023

Published in Articles

Todd Heiser, FIIDA, is principal and co-managing director in Gensler’s Chicago office. With more than 20 years of experience, Heiser helps transform spaces for clients across the globe using a cutting edge design process. He is a trusted mentor who leverages his leadership to help colleagues, clients and firms take proactive steps to change the design industry. Heiser works to advance the next-generation of designers through his commitment to education, collaboration and innovative design strategies. As a 2023 IIDA College of Fellows inductee, his influence on the design industry is shown through his passion and dedication to people, place and leadership. Heiser talks about his IIDA journey and his hopes for what IIDA can do to further the industry.

Why did you join IIDA and how have you been involved?

I joined IIDA because many of my mentors and sponsors were in IIDA leadership roles. Over my many years of membership, the resources provided to me by the IIDA have helped me grow as a designer and a leader, and in 2023, I was honored with the induction into the College of Fellows.

What inspired you to become a design professional?

My family worked in art and finance professions, and the experience of being around both the technical and the creative had a deep influence on me. Additionally, my high school art teacher took notice of my interest in art and my affinity for people, pushing me to investigate architecture and other creative careers. I am so grateful she helped me find the perfect platform for my skills and passions.

Todd joins Brian Vitale and Ken Baker from Gensler North Central Region for a Fireside Chat.

Photo by Photo Credit: Gensler

Todd joins Brian Vitale and Ken Baker from Gensler North Central Region for a Fireside Chat.

Photo by Photo Credit: Gensler

Gensler North Central Region Fireside Chat.

Photo by Photo Credit: Gensler

Gensler North Central Region Fireside Chat.

Photo by Photo Credit: Gensler

What aspects of your membership have been of most value?

IIDA is a community connector, bringing everyone together. This expansive network has allowed me to meet new friends and colleagues, be a mentor and a mentee, take part in dialogue on advocacy issues, and so much more. It is truly the people that make up IIDA who have brought immeasurable value to my career and my life.

Why is the IIDA community important to the future of design?

We’re at a pivotal moment in society where we realize cities and communities are facing numerous challenges at once, from struggles with equity to environmental issues. These big topics can’t be faced alone–many voices bring energy and strength to the possibilities found within design. Not only do we have more power to shape the future collaboratively through IIDA, but we can also utilize the association’s structures and resources to grow personally and professionally.

Photo by Photo Credit: Ray Abercrombie

Todd Heiser (far right), Stefanie Shunk (middle) and Koreen Pelot (far left) pose at IIDA Annual Meeting after being inducted into the 2023 College of Fellows.

Why would you encourage others to join IIDA?

IIDA, AIA, NOMA, and other associations elevate the voice of designers, present important avenues for advocacy, and host scholarships and other opportunities for recognition. At Gensler, we encourage designers to become a licensed, active member of the design community, utilizing the value that these organizations provide. Our longstanding relationship with IIDA is especially unique because we designed the global headquarters in 2017.