Join us for an inspiring evening with Rocco Giannetti, a groundbreaking leader in architecture and a powerful advocate for queer visibility within the industry. In conversation with Build Out Alliance founder and past president Rajas Karnik, Rocco will share his journey from coming out in the 1980s—a time of profound challenges for the queer community—to leading Gensler’s Northeast Region, one of the world’s largest architecture firms. Hear first-hand about Rocco’s experiences navigating homophobia, championing inclusion, and redefining corporate architecture for future generations. This intimate discussion offers rare insights into how resilience, authenticity, and advocacy can shape a fulfilling career. A Q&A session will follow for attendees to ask their own questions and engage more with Rocco.
Join Us In-Person or Virtually
We are pleased to host this hybrid event so Rocco can share his story with many people. Registration options include:
In-Person at the Turner Construction offices located at 66 Hudson Boulevard East, Floor 35, in Manhattan
Live Video via Zoom Webinar from anywhere around the world
The Evening's Agenda
Doors will open at 6:00pm ET for in-person attendees and the live Zoom Webinar will begin at 6:30pm ET. Light hors d'oeuvres and beer and wine will be served in-person.
6:00pm-6:30pm ET :: Arrival & check-in for in-person attendees
6:30pm-7:30pm ET :: Discussion with Rocco followed by open Q&A for all attendees
7:30p-8:30pm ET :: Post-event networking for in-person attendees
What To Expect
Leadership & Career Insight :: Discover how Rocco's journey to leadership at Gensler can inspire your own career path, fueled by authenticity and advocacy.
Stories of Advocacy :: Hear Rocco's personal journey, including his activism with ACT UP and his working championing DEI in the industry.
Navigating Bias :: Learn how Rocco managed and overcame homophobic biases in his career, working with clients and colleagues in challenging environments.
Industry Networking :: Connect with other queer and allied professionals who share a passion for creating a more inclusive design, construction, real estate, and related industry.
About Rocco
Rocco Giannetti
Regional Managing Principal, Gensler
Rocco is a respected architect and a passionate advocate for equity and inclusion, having pioneered spaces and policies that promote LGBTQ+ visibility within architecture. As the Regional Managing Principal of Gensler’s Northeast Region, Rocco leads by example, overseeing major projects and pushing for more inclusive workplace practices. His lifelong dedication to advocacy, from his activism with ACT UP in the 1980s to his recent contributions to Gensler’s DEI report, has made him a powerful voice for change in the industry. Rocco’s work embodies the spirit of Build Out Alliance’s mission, showing that one can drive industry-wide transformation by combining technical expertise with authentic, courageous leadership.
Thank You To Our Host
A special shout out to our generous host, Turner Construction, for opening your doors to our community.
Still have questions?
Please reach out to Rajas Karnik at rkarnik@buildoutalliance.org with questions or for more information.