Wiggins talked with EAL about her new role, design differences throughout North American markets, and what the organization has in store for designers:

Are there any differences in the interior design industry between Canada and the U.S.?
Having spent time in both markets over the past several years, I don’t see any differences in the industry other than size of market. From an association perspective, we share the same standards of qualification, and from a membership perspective, our members work in all sectors of design, including commercial, residential, hospitality, health care and retail.

What are some new or existing programs/initiatives you plan to expand in this role?
As a senior strategic advisor, I look forward to first better understanding ASID’s current programs and initiatives, as well as what members are looking for from the association. I am very excited about working with the ASID team to continue the important work ASID is doing throughout the profession on health and well-being, such as hosting the second annual Impact Summit in conjunction with IDC, and pushing out the next set of ASID protocols for health and wellness in design, part of the CGI commitment.

ASID has an excellent reputation as the voice for the interior design profession. I am anxious to find relevant and meaningful ways to project that voice in ways that serve the membership to advance the profession in the global marketplace.

What are you most excited about in this position?
This is a tough one, because there are so many reasons I am excited about this opportunity. If I were to go with the top two, the first would be the opportunity to work with Randy Fiser and his team at ASID. Through Randy’s leadership, ASID, in a very short time, has increased its brand value and, as a result, its membership. This provides so many opportunities, which is the challenge I am excited about; determining where best to continue to elevate what is now a very recognizable brand.

The second thing that I am looking forward to is that I get to work more closely with so many colleagues that I have come to know on the U.S. side of the border. I can hit the ground running, and can’t wait for January to begin the journey.