About Rachel
Photo: Ashley Powell Photography
Hi, I’m Rachel R. Gresham, AIA, MBA, WELL AP, CDT:
architect, advocate, and unapologetic champion for AEC businesses.
After a decade practicing architecture, Rachel shifted her focus from individual projects to industry transformation. Rachel now serves as Senior Director of Professional Practice Programs at AIA National, where she leads national efforts to build business acumen in architecture by developing tools, programs, and resources that help firms operate with purpose, clear value proposition, and financial confidence. Zweig Group recently recognized Rachel for this work by naming her a 2025 AEC Rising Star.
During her MBA studies at Belmont University, Rachel conducted independent research on the relationship between firm structure and organizational culture in architecture. That work continues to shape how she speaks and challenges firm performance, team dynamics, and the hidden mechanics that drive (or stall) progress. If you're looking for someone to break down these ideas in a room full of leaders or emerging professionals… Rachel has the expertise and presence to equip them with new concepts and mindset.
Rachel’s passion lies in helping architects feel confident not just in design, but in business decisions, advocating for business or personal value, and cultural leadership. She’s created mentorship programs, co-designed emerging leader curricula, and served on the AIA Middle Tennessee Board, where she co-founded the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee. Rachel believes firm culture can be a powerful recruitment and retention tool; and that joy at work is a strategic advantage.
If you’re looking for a speaker or collaborator on practice prosperity or organizational culture, reach out!