Quantum + AI: Designing the Environments Behind Breakthrough Innovation
Quantum and AI are advancing rapidly, fueled by major investment and rising demand for highly specialized facilities that can support research, development, and real-world applications. These fields bring together interdisciplinary teams across academia, government, and private industry, creating a complex stakeholder landscape that can greatly benefit from the expertise of real estate, design, and construction professionals.
Join leaders from HOK, AEI, UC Berkeley, Breakthrough Properties, and DPR for a timely panel conversation exploring the opportunities, challenges, and building strategies shaping the future of quantum and AI. The dynamic discussion will highlight quantum’s emerging trends, evolving stakeholder needs, and what it takes to create environments that enable breakthrough innovation, with ample time for audience Q&A.
AEI | Jason Atkisson, PE | Principal
Jason is a Principal at Affiliated Engineers and leader in their Science & Technology practice. He specializes in managing complex projects supporting sophisticated research programs for research institutions and private clients throughout the United States. He has specific expertise in high-performance laboratory design, including precision environments for laser/optics and microelectronics. Jason is also the firms Subject Matter Expert (SME) for quantum computing and quantum research environments. He has worked closely with both quantum researchers and quantum computing companies on the design of robust infrastructure required to support the specialized environments.
HOK | Leslie Ashor AIA, LEED AP | Senior Principal | Director, Science + Technology
Leslie Ashor is an architect and laboratory planner with more than 25 years of experience delivering complex science, R&D, pharmaceutical, and engineering laboratory facilities. She specializes exclusively in laboratory master planning, programming, design, and project deliver for global clients across research, teaching, industry, and government sectors. Leslie has led programming and design for more than 150 projects worldwide, including the Lab of the Year – winning South Australia Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI). Known for translating scientific needs into innovative, sustainable design solutions, she is a strong leader in stakeholder engagement and change management. A recognized thought leader, she publishes frequently and presents internationally on laboratory design trends, sustainability, containment, and SuperLab teaching environments.
DPR | Michelle Martin | Higher Education Strategist
As DPR’s Higher Education Strategist, Michelle leads efforts to deepen the firm’s understanding of the higher education market, anticipate client challenges, and continuously strengthen how DPR serves as a trusted advisor. Her interest in the quantum frontier stems from her academic foundation in life sciences and extends to the specialized facilities needed to support quantum research and computing. With experience working alongside college, university, and healthcare clients, Michelle applies design thinking to help institutions navigate complexity and develop forward-looking solutions with clarity and confidence.
Breakthrough Properties | Sarah Williams | VP, Design & Construction
As the VP of Design & Construction for Breakthrough Properties, Sarah oversees the development of high-performance technical environments, specializing in the intersection of complex research requirements and institutional real estate. With over two decades of experience in the design and construction industry, she has a proven track record of delivering sophisticated laboratory and R&D facilities that support breakthrough innovation. Sarah’s expertise is grounded in a deep understanding of preconstruction strategy and technical infrastructure. Holding specialized certifications in Mechanical and Electrical Estimating, she brings a granular perspective to the intensive power, thermal, and vibration-isolation requirements essential for modern quantum and life science environments. In her current role, Sarah oversees the delivery of cutting-edge innovation hubs, serving as a critical bridge between the technical needs of pioneering tenants and the operational realities of the built environment.
Aziza Suleymanzade | Assistant Professor of Physics and Robert J. Birgeneau Chair at UC Berkeley.
Aziza Suleymanzade is an Assistant Professor of Physics and Robert J. Birgeneau Chair at UC Berkeley where she leads a research group dedicated to building hybrid quantum systems. Her work focuses on creating novel quantum interfaces by combining Rydberg atoms, superconducting circuits, and nanophotonics to advance quantum information processing and sensing.
As an experimentalist, Aziza brings a firsthand "user" perspective to the design of the built environment. From her lab in Birge Hall, she navigates the extreme physical requirements—including vibration isolation, electromagnetic shielding, and precise thermal management—required to protect delicate quantum states. Aziza earned her Ph.D. from the University of Chicago and was a postdoctoral scholar at Harvard University before joining the Berkeley faculty.
2 approved LUs:
- Differentiate diverse areas of quantum research and quantum computing types.
- Identify key planning, spatial design, and MEPS infrastructure considerations for quantum and AI specialized research and innovation environments.
- Evaluate the complex interdisciplinary stakeholder dynamics influencing planning and delivery decisions.
- Assess design and construction strategies that meet current needs and position facilities to adapt to the rapid evolution of AI and quantum.
5:30 - Doors Open
6:00 - Program Starts
8:00 - Program Ends
Have a program pitch for AIASF? The Industry Partner Showcase is how firms host CE presentations in the Center's Lecture Hall — with AIA National LU approval and AIASF marketing built in.
Presented by:
