Nicolas Sterling had the pleasure of participating in the 2nd National Conference on Architecture – Engineering Double Degrees, organized by the AAIIA and hosted at ENSA Versailles on March 20, 2026. This second edition confirms the growing relevance of hybrid profiles in our field, bringing together more than 75 participants from 20 schools. The strong representation of students served as a clear signal that the next generation is actively seeking transversal paths to navigate the complexities of modern design.

The discussions highlighted three essential ambitions: connecting architects and engineers to foster genuine interdisciplinary collaboration, guiding students and young professionals as they navigate hybrid educational paths, and opening a broader dialogue with the construction ecosystem to collectively address the challenges shaping our built environment.

A particularly valuable moment was the workshop discussion regarding international opportunities, which explored how these hybrid formations are increasingly recognized and successful abroad, raising important questions for how such pathways are promoted within Europe. The conference concluded with a lecture by Antoine Picon titled “At the origins of a divide,” reflecting on the historical divergence between architecture and engineering disciplines. It served as a timely reminder that while these fields have grown apart institutionally, their convergence is more necessary than ever.

A sincere thank you goes to the AAIIA team for the organization and to ENSA Versailles for hosting. The momentum is building, and this vital conversation is only just beginning.