Artificial stone slabs are made primarily from quartz, a mineral that contains high levels of silica — often more than 90%. As the use of engineered stone has grown, so have cases of silicosis, especially in California. This serious and preventable lung disease is impacting workers across the construction, fabrication, and design industries.
In this episode, Christine Peter and Kelsey Sebastian sit down with leading experts in occupational and public health to break down what silicosis is, why cases are rising, and what it means for the Architecture and Design (A+D) community. Together, they explore the health risks associated with silica exposure, current regulations, and the steps designers, specifiers, and industry leaders can take to help prevent this disease.

Featuring insights from:
Kristin J. Cummings, MD, MPH, ATSF — Chief, Occupational Health Branch, California Department of Public Health
Jenny Houlroyd, DrPH, CIH — Occupational Health Group Manager, Safety, Health, Environmental Services (SHES) at Georgia Tech
Lisa Patrick-Mudd, MPH — Policy and Programs Manager, Office of Worker Health and Safety, Los Angeles County Department of Public Health

Join us for an important conversation about material health, worker safety, and the role the A+D community can play in protecting lives.

This episode is sponsored by Bentley Mills

The “Trauma Informed Design” discussion will address the importance of acknowledging the pervasive nature of trauma and why it is a pillar of Inclusive Design. The nuances that allow occupants to recover, regulate if needed, and foster inclusiveness and empowerment.
The event will explore relationships between trauma and workplace experiences and how physical space can influence persons wellbeing.
The event is organized by IIDA SoCal EDI Sector
Panelist:
Dr. Lauren Gant (https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurengant/), Senior Ergonomics and Wellness Strategist at HNI Corporation (https://www.hnicorp.com/)
Moderator:
Jesus Morello – IIDA SoCal San Diego EDI Ambassador | Gensler (https://www.gensler.com/)
Tickets:
Member: Free
Non-Member: $35
Students: Free
This event is also being held in Orange County (https://iida-socal.org/events/edi-trauma-informed-design-orange-county-02-18-26/) and Los Angeles (https://iida-socal.org/events/edi-trauma-informed-design-los-angeles-02-19-26/).

Today on “Living Your Truth” we are thrilled to spotlight
a new campaign, “I Am IIDA.” Joining us for this special
episode is Justin Castillo, our Vice President of
Membership.

Justin will share his personal journey into the design
industry — how it all began, the challenges he faced, and
the ways he overcame adversity to become the best
version of himself. He’ll also reflect on how joining IIDA
years ago ultimately led him to his current leadership role
on the IIDA Southern California Board.

His genuine passion for life and people is sure to inspire
you — and perhaps help you discover something new
within yourself. Join us for this meaningful and authentic
conversation with Justin Castillo.

Sponsor:
Taylor Design
At Taylor Design we firmly believe that great design can empower people to be, and do, their best. Serving clients for over 45 years with offices across California, our practice delivers architecture, interior design, medical planning, lab planning and design strategy services in the healthcare, science and technology, higher education, and senior living sectors.
www.wearetaylor.com