Speakers

Kais Al-Rawi, AIA

Senior Associate and Enclosure Design Leader, Walter P. Moore

Kais works at the intersection of architecture, engineering and technology with expertise in solving complex building challenges through digital design. Based in Los Angeles, he is the Enclosure Design Leader at Walter P. Moore for the west-coast. His experience has been leveraged on a number of high-profile projects including SoFi Stadium, Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, San Diego Airport T1 redevelopment, West Gates at LAX, Daily’s Place, New Orleans Aiport, Orange County Museum of Art among others. He is the 2020 recipient of Walter P. Moore’s Javier F. Horvilleur Outstanding Young Professional Award, and the first Architect to receive it in the firm's history. He is a subject matter expert in computational design and its implementation in the AEC industry from concept to construction.

Session: Raising the Roof: The Story Behind SoFi Stadium’s Colossal Canopy Enclosure

Linda Alvarado

President and Chief Executive Officer, Alvarado Construction Inc.

Linda Alvarado is President and Chief Executive Officer of Alvarado Construction Inc., a commercial general contractor, construction manager, development, design/build, and property management firm. Based in Denver, the company has offices in several cities. Alvarado Construction has successfully developed and constructed projects across the United States and internationally. The company prides itself on its reputation for reliability, accurate estimating, engineering expertise, and successful track record of in-budget and on-schedule delivery of high-quality construction of commercial, government, Fortune 500 projects, industrial, transportation, telecommunications, educational, office, mixed use, retail, manufacturing, technology projects, and sports stadiums.

Session: Change. Adapt. Innovate: How to be Future Ready

Sponsored by LiftMaster   

Hassan Anifowose, PhD Candidate

Architect, BIM/VR Specialist, Texas A&M University and SwiftWall

Hassan is an architect and the Co-Founder of Chronos Studeos. He is well-known for outstanding 3D visualization projects in the design and construction industry. With a solid background in leadership and entrepreneurship, Hassan is constantly working on the edge. He completed his Masters in Environmental Design (Architecture) and graduated from the University of Lagos in 2012. He consults for SwiftWall in Michigan, working on temporary construction barriers at several airports. He has worked on several projects including Mitsubishi and Suzuki Showrooms, Standard Chartered Bank HQ parkade and the construction supervision of the Circle Mall. Hassan’s professional practice and project management experience continues to drive his passion and commitment towards people and process improvements.

Session: Interactive Virtual Construction for Business & Training

Peter Babaian, SE, PE

Principal, Simpson Gumpertz & Heger Inc.

Peter is the Building Technology Division Head for the Chicago office at Simpson Gumpertz & Heger (SGH). His 20 years of experience includes designing, investigating, and rehabilitating a variety of building enclosures and structures. Peter's projects involve exterior enclosure consulting for new construction, rehabilitating existing structures and enclosures, historic preservation, building enclosure commissioning, investigating non-performing building enclosures, and providing expert services related to construction litigation. Peter chairs the Technical Activities Committee at The Masonry Society and serves on the Executive Committee and Board of Directors. He is also on the Board of Directors of the Chicago Building Congress and Landmarks Illinois.

Session: Four Ways to Optimize Prefabricated Building Enclosures

Susan Bliss, FCSI, CDT, CCS, CCCA, SCIP, LEED AP

Principal, Spec Services, LLC

With over 35 years of experience in specifications writing, construction contract administration, interior design, and accessibility consulting, Susan now focuses on specification writing as Principal of Spec Services, LLC. She is passionate about sharing her knowledge with others and especially training the next generation in writing specifications. As an extension of her in-house spec-writer training, Susan created Spec-LAB, an online educational library designed to educate architects and builders in construction materials, construction products, systems, and assemblies. Over her career, Susan has volunteered in many positions at the national and local levels of CSI, including serving on the Editorial Advisory Board for the CSI Manual of Practice in 2001. In 2020, Susan was awarded the Robert P. Brosseau Award for the Advancement of CSI in recognition of her focus on the education, training, and mentorship of students and emerging professionals. Susan was selected to become a member of the 2021 Class of Fellows, one of the highest honors for which Institute members may be chosen.

Session: Specs 101 Supercharged

Adam Bridgman

Co-Founder and General Partner, Ironspring Ventures

Adam is Co-Founder and General Partner at Ironspring Ventures, a leading AEC and Industrial sector venture capital firm. As an experienced digital industrial investor, Adam brings a view of the industry that combines short term business conditions and long term industry trends. After a number of successful deals, and hundreds of startup presentations, Adam brings an understanding of the adoption headwinds facing legacy industry innovators and the critical need for channel partners. In 2016, he established HOLT Ventures and in 2017, convened the original Ironspring Network to help serve this purpose. Adam co-founded Ironspring in 2019 to formalize this network-driven investment approach to digital industrial innovation.

Session: The Three Horizons Framework for Innovation: Understanding Current and Future Technologies

Sponsored by Fire-Trol   

Trish Brindle

National Sales Manager, Fire-Trol

Tricia Brindle is the National Sales Manager for Fire Trol, a division of United Steel. Located in Hartford, CT. Fire Trol produces a first in class prefabricated fire-proof steel building column utilizing a proprietary fire-resistive component that is UL tested and certified. Tricia’s career in sales and marketing combined with her 10+ years’ experience working in the steel fabrication industry has made her an invaluable asset to architects and engineers across the country in providing the education and technical support needed to enhance the product research and specification process. 

Session: Fire-Trol: Fireproofing for Aesthetics and Functionality

Ben Caldwell, CSI, CCS^®, AIA, LEED AP BD+C

Associate Principal and Specification Writer, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill

Ben an Architect at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), licensed in New York, California, and Connecticut. He is a member of SOM’s Senior Technical Team and SOM’s in-house Specification Department, with over 30 years of experience in materials research, specifications, building science, and technical design on all types of building projects in the United States and abroad. Ben is active in AIA, CSI, and NFPA. He is a Principal on NFPA “Fire Tests” and “Structures, Construction, and Materials” Standards Committees including the NFPA 285 Standards Committee.

Session: Decarbonizing Projects: Saving the World, One Specification at a Time

Henry H. Chamberlain, APR, FASAE, CAE

President and Chief Operating Officer, Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International

In his role as president and chief operating officer, Henry Chamberlain directs the staff of the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International. Founded in 1907, BOMA International is a federation of 86 US local associations and 19 global affiliates. The leading trade association for commercial real estate professionals, it represents the owners, managers, service providers, and other property professionals of all commercial building types, including office, industrial, medical, corporate, and mixed-use. BOMA International is the partner that individuals in the commercial real estate industry choose so they can maximize value for their career, organization, and assets. Its mission is to advance a vibrant commercial real estate industry through advocacy, influence, and knowledge.

Session: Peering Into the Future: Prepare for Impact

Sponsored by Sherwin-Williams   

Monique Colas

Senior Specifications Specialist, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill

Monique joined the SOM New York City office as a Specifications Writer in 2020. Monique's academic and early professional background focused on materials science, building pathology, and the preservation of historic structures. In addition to her participation in the SOM Specifications group, Monique has been involved in researching ways to select and specify more sustainable materials. She is also assisting with updates to firmwide master specifications as a result of this research. Monique has been particularly excited to be able to share her knowledge of historic preservation with her team members on a variety of projects involving existing buildings, and is exploring how adaptive reuse can be used to further our sustainability goals.

Session: Decarbonizing Projects: Saving the World, One Specification at a Time

Jason Conley

Midwest Building Design Manager, GAF Roofing & Science

Jason Conley is the Midwest Building Design Manager on the GAF Building & Roofing Science team. He is focused on providing Architects and Specifiers with commercial roofing education, technical guidance, roofing system selection, and specification development. Jason has over 25 years of experience in the architecture and commercial roofing industry. His previous roles include Architectural Designer on multi-family developments, office buildings, and mountain ski resorts in Denver and Summit County, Colorado. He also provided technical assistance to Architects as an Outside Sales Representative with Johns Manville in Chicago, Illinois. Jason has a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from Lawrence Technological University and a Construction Management Certification from Colorado State University. He is an Associate member of AIA, a LEED Accredited Professional, a Registered Roof Observer, and a Construction Documents Technologist.

Session: Parapet Perplexities: Water, Air, Thermal & Vapor Control

Scott Conwell, FCSI, CDT^®, FAIA, LEED AP BD+C

Director of Industry Development and Technical Service, International Masonry Institute

In his 27 years with IMI, Scott has emerged as a leader in the masonry and tile industry and in the architectural community. He is a prolific LinkedIn geek, posting content three times per week, including short and long form posts and articles. He is the creator and drafter of IMI’s Masonry Detailing Series, an online collection of graphics which sets the standard for masonry architectural details. He consistently authors articles on masonry and tile for design and trade journals, and he has delivered over 1,000 accredited seminars to design professionals, contractors, and students all over the world, always teaching from the perspective of converging constructability with design theory. Scott is a licensed architect, a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, and a Fellow of the Construction Specifications Institute.

Session: Build Your Brand, Tell Your Story: Social Media for Design and Construction Professionals

Ryan Cummings

Vice President of Product and Marketing, RIB

Ryan has spent more than 15 years creating, managing, and marketing software and data solutions to drive digital transformation and decision making in the AEC industry. He is particularly passionate about design-focused innovation and data-driven decision making to support continuous improvement for customers. Ryan currently serves as Vice President of Product and Marketing at RIB North America, where the company is focused on transforming the creation of construction specifications by adopting a more iterative, collaborative, and data-driven approach facilitated by flexible, cloud-based technology. He is both Scrum certified and Pragmatic Marketing certified, and plans to continue expanding his knowledge and skill set in the field of technology, product management, and marketing. Ryan holds an MBA in Finance and a BA in Strategic Communication. He is a strong supporter of the Big Brothers Big Sisters program and is a long-time youth mentor and volunteer.

Session: RIB: Building a Collaborative, Data-Driven Specification Program

Al Dea

Founder, Betterwork Labs

Al is the Founder of Betterwork Labs, a strategy & talent advisory firm focused on helping leaders create cultures where their people can thrive. He is an author, speaker, consultant, and researcher on the future of work, talent management and organizational strategy. Al is passionate about helping people and organizations flourish in the changing world of work, and  helping leaders and their executive teams gain the foresight and insight to adapt to trends, drive performance, and empower people to thrive in periods of transformation and change. Al researches, writes, and speaks on leadership development, workplace trends, and company culture, and his thinking and insights have been published in outlets such as Business Insider, The World Economic Forum, Inc and Time Magazine.

Sessions: Building Your Career in A World of Accelerating Uncertainty & Change, Talent Reawakening: The Future of Workforce Growth and Success

Don Dea

Founder, ASAE AAPI Advisory Group

Don Dea serves as Board Chair Excelsior University, and Board Chair, America’s VetDogs & the GuideDog Foundation, Founder, ASAE AAPI Advisory Group and is a strategic and business advisor to associations, non-profits, and businesses. Don has served in the private, non-profit, and government sectors. Don has authored several books and articles published by the ASAE Foundation on the Internet, digital transformation, and online education, as well as articles on technology, healthcare, mobile, digital innovation, association leadership and governance, and digital transformation & innovation. He is the co-founder of Fusion Productions and co-producer of digitalNow an executive summit for association/non-profit leaders. Dea has served in senior executive roles in global technology, marketing, and real estate including the Xerox Corp, He is a co-founder of several high technology companies and construction firms. Dea served as special assistant to the Attorney General, Department of Justice in the President's Executive Exchange Program.

Session: Talent Reawakening: The Future of Workforce Growth & Success

Amber Duco, AIA, LEED AP BD+C

Project Architect, Hasenstab Architects

Amber is a Registered Architect and sustainability specialist at Hasenstab Architects. She has worked on various LEED certified projects and is guiding the sustainability committee to align Hasenstab with the goals of the 2030 Challenge. She has primarily worked in higher education and research and development laboratory markets.

Session: Carbon and Our Ability to Reduce Its Footprint

Steve Etelamaki, CSI, CDT^®, CCCA^®

Senior Construction Administrator, Quality Assurance Manager, Specifications Manager, Plunkett Raysich Architects

With over 30 years of experience, Steve has a vast knowledge of what it takes to get a building built. As Specifications Manager, Steve oversees the firm's master specification and product database. He is constantly working with product representatives to make sure that PRA's specifications are up to date and meet product guidelines. As Quality Assurance Manager, Steve reviews every drawing set that is produced by PRA to ensure that it is constructable and coordinated. Steve performs construction administration on a number of PRA projects with an emphasis on educational buildings.

Session: Six Steps to Successful Construction Administration

Regan Everhard, AIA, LEED AP BD+C

Project Architect, Hasenstab Architects

Regan is a Registered Architect and LEED AP BD+C at Hasenstab Architects. She has worked on various LEED certified projects and is a member of Hasenstab’s Sustainability Committee. Work she has been a part of includes 7-12 schools, the Akron Zoo, and laboratory markets.

Session: Carbon and Our Ability to Reduce Its Footprint

Forest Flager

CEO, Parspec

Forest is the CEO of Parspec, a venture-funded technology company that is focused on supporting the specification and procurement of construction products. Before founding Parspec in 2021, Forest led digital product and system development at Katerra, Inc., a technology driven offsite construction company. Previously he was part of the research and teaching team at Stanford University’s Center for Integrated Facility Engineering and practiced as a structural engineer for Arup in London and San Francisco. Forest holds a B.S. and Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Stanford, a Master of Design from Harvard’s GSD, and a MEng in Structural Engineering from MIT.

Session: How Products Change: What it Means for Specification and Procurement

Julie Foley, CSI, CDT, AIA, NCARB

Co-Founder, Emerge AEC

Based in Michigan, Julie has 16+ years of project management, project architect, spec writing, and tradeshow experience. Throughout her career, she’s engaged thousands of professionals across the AECO industry. Her diverse professional experiences allow for a multifaceted perspective when communicating and collaborating with others. Through her personal and professional experiences, she’s learned the valuable lesson of “I’m not the first. I won’t be the last. I’m going to help the next one.” She will unwaveringly support you in your personal and professional endeavors. In addition to her career as a Project Manager and Architect with Summit Design and Engineering, Julie has co-founded Emerge AEC, written professional exam questions for CSI and AIA, and tutors architecture licensure candidates.

Session: Crossing Paths: Cultivating Industry Collaboration

Rowan Georges, CSI, AIA

Senior Associate Principal and Specification Writer, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill

Rowan is a Senior Associate Principal at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill. He also serves on the Board of Directors of the Architectural Glass and Metal Certification Council (AGMCC). Leading the Specifications Group in the firm’s New York office, Rowan oversees the development and production of specification documents for all of the New York office’s projects. Since joining SOM in 2005, he has developed extensive experience working on high-rise and supertall commercial and mixed-use towers, schools, and healthcare facilities. With experience on numerous overseas projects, he has developed an acute understanding of working collaboratively with local clients, fabricators, and stakeholders to leverage regional conditions to meet international quality and performance standards. Rowan brings the real-world experience essential to defining the material qualities necessary for turning designs into well-built structures.

Session: Decarbonizing Projects: Saving the World, One Specification at a Time

Tim Gollogly

VP of Business Development, IMAJION

Tim Gollogly is the VP of Business Development at IMAJION and a Partner at Blue Collar Capital, an early-stage construction tech investment firm where he sees a wide range of technologies. Tim is also a member of AXA XL’s Collaboratory, whose goal is to find ways to adopt technologies that reduce risks on job sites, leading to lower customer premiums.   He has over 15 years of experience in the Private Financial Markets with investments ranging from Industrial Equipment Finance, Structured Credit, and early-stage tech investing.

Session: What's Next for Buildtech

Rose Hall, PE, CRIS

Vice President, Head of Construction Innovation, AXA XL

Ms. Hall is the Vice President, Head of Construction Innovation for AXA XL North America Construction. Rose provides leadership in construction innovation via the implementation of business process ecosystems, technology, unique insurance solutions, and enhanced customer service initiatives across all lines of business. Her role is dedicated to supporting AXA XL’s construction customers’ innovation efforts and technological maturity, and by extension, advancing the construction industry to new heights in this fourth industrial revolution. Rose is a thought-leader, ambassador, and spokesperson for AXA XL, and co-founder of the AXA XL Construction Ecosystem. She has 20+ years of practical experience in engineering, construction project management, and risk management with Turner Construction Co, and as an expert witness and litigation support consultant with WCD Group, now a Gallagher Bassett company.

Session: The 'Three Horizons' Framework for Innovation: Understanding Current and Future Technologies

Sponsored by Fire-Trol   

Cynthia Heimann, CSI, CDT^®, CCCA^®, AIA

Associate Principal and Specification Writer, Skidmore, Owings & Merril

Based in the Washington DC office, Cynthia joined SOM in 2018 as a member of the Senior Technical Team and an in-house specification writer. With over 20 years of experience as a licensed architect, she has been an integral part of many design teams for a variety of building types in SOM's recent portfolio in the US and abroad. Additionally, her focus in the last couple of years has been to coordinate the technical team's efforts as the firm worked towards SOM's objective to reduce carbon and chemicals from materials and assemblies listed in the firm's specification masters. Cynthia is a past president, and current active member of the Northern Virginia Chapter of CSI.

Session: Decarbonizing Projects: Saving the World, One Specification at a Time

Rebecca Herkes, PE

Consulting Engineer, Simpson Gumpertz & Heger Inc.

Rebecca is a consulting engineer in the Building Technology division of Simpson Gumpertz & Heger’s (SGH) Chicago office. Rebecca has six years of consulting experience with SGH and two years of construction management as an owner’s representative. Rebecca has managed SGH projects including building enclosure consulting for new construction, investigating building enclosure failures or non-performance, and repairing or rehabilitating existing building enclosures.

Session: Four Ways to Optimize Prefabricated Building Enclosures

Jacqui Hogans, CDT^®

Project Manager, McGinnis Chen Associates

Jacqui is a Project Manager at McGinnis Chen Associates, a San Francisco-based building envelope consultancy. Jacqui’s career emphasis has been on conditions assessment and building pathology, materials selection and specification, construction administration, and building envelope enhancement of historic and existing contemporary buildings. Jacqui's work includes the restoration of major landmarks throughout the United States, as well as routine maintenance projects and capital improvement programs.

Session: Fix It, Don't Forget It: Post-Restoration Maintenance Programs

Chris Kasa

Architectural & Design Specification Manager, Nystrom

Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Chris has 20+ years of commercial construction industry experience and leads the Nystrom and Babcock-Davis specification team by partnering with design professionals to provide substantial product solutions, detailed technical support and superior service.

Session: Nystrom: Working Together for a Solution: An HVAC Access Door Development Adventure

Jennifer Keegan, AAIA

Director, Building and Roofing Science, GAF and Siplast

Jennifer is the Director of Building & Roofing Science for GAF, focusing on overall roof system design and performance. Jennifer has over 20 years of experience as a building enclosure consultant specializing in building forensics, assessment, design and remediation of building enclosure systems. Jennifer provides technical leadership within the industry as the Chair of the ASTM D08.22 Roofing and Waterproofing Subcommittee, and the education chair for IIBEC; and as an advocate for women within the industry as an executive board member of National Women in Roofing and a board member of Women in Construction.

Session: Parapet Perplexities: Water, Air, Thermal & Vapor Control

Erica Kennedy

Principal, Hospitality Studio

Born in Asheville, North Carolina, Erica Kennedy graduated from UNC-Charlotte with a Bachelor of Art and Bachelor of Architecture. Shortly after college, Erica realized her love for hotel design and the hospitality sector. She is now a Partner at ODA Architecture and Principal of the Hospitality Studio. The creative teamwork, relaxed style, and unencumbered energy at ODA result in loyal client partnerships. Erica thrives on business development, great client interactions and successful project completion.  In 2021, she was appointed to the CSI Board of Directors as the Director for the Southeast Region. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the Charlotte Hospitality Tourism Alliance. In her down time, Erica enjoys traveling, practicing yoga, reading, and volunteering.

Session: Talent Reawakening: The Future of Workforce Growth & Success

Candace Kitchen

Customer Service Specialist, Total Door Systems

Candace Kitchen is the primary presenter and educator for Total Door Systems integrated door systems, life safety and building code courses. She has more than three years’ experience in working with architects, engineers, hotels, fire safety personnel and others to ensure that they have the latest information on life safety building codes and product options to ensure compliance. Candace is a central part of Total Door Systems’ customer service team, and helps each customer with her characteristic high energy and positivity.

Candace may be reached at designsupport@totaldoor.com.

Session: Total Door Systems: Integrated Fire and Smoke Door Systems

Corey Kurek, CSI, CDT^®, Assoc AIA

Construction Administrator, Plunkett Raysich Architects, LLP

Corey is a construction administrator in PRA's Milwaukee office. Corey is part of a team that translates design into successful construction projects. She is responsible for field visits to ongoing construction sites and working with clients and construction managers to bring designs into reality. Corey values the opportunity to help clients attain their goals and live their vision. She work to ensure that contractors are using the right materials, codes are met, and standards are satisified. Corey has over ten years of experience in the industry. She has worked on projects throughout the country.

Session: Six Steps to Successful Construction Administration

Tessa Lau, PhD

Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Dusty Robotics

Dr. Tessa Lau is an experienced entrepreneur with expertise in AI, machine learning, and robotics. She is currently Founder/CEO at Dusty Robotics, a construction robotics company building robot-powered tools for the modern construction workforce. Prior to Dusty, she was CTO/co-founder at Savioke, where she orchestrated the deployment of 75+ delivery robots into hotels and high-rises. Previously, Dr. Lau was a Research Scientist at Willow Garage, where she developed simple interfaces for personal robots. She also spent 11 years at IBM Research working in business process automation and knowledge capture. More generally, Dr. Lau is interested in technology that gives people superpowers and building businesses that bring that technology into people’s lives. Dr. Lau was recognized as one of the Top 5 Innovative Women to Watch in Robotics by Inc. in 2018 and one of Fast Company’s Most Creative People in 2015. Dr. Lau holds a PhD in Computer Science from the University of Washington.

Session: The 'Three Horizons' Framework for Innovation: Understanding Current and Future Technologies

Sponsored by Fire-Trol   

Eric Letbetter

Principal, Niles Bolton Associates, Inc.

An NCARB Certified Architect and CSI Certified Construction Specifier, Eric provides the full range of professional services in all project phases from Masterplanning & Programming and Schematic Design through Permitting and Construction. Since the year 2000, Eric has mentored young professionals to advance their development in the field of Architecture and lead numerous Intern Architects through an Architect Registration Exam preparation program at Niles Bolton Associates by developing custom action plans for each Intern Architect and teaching in-house exam preparation classes. In addition to running projects, Eric focuses on advancing technical document quality and teaching others about strategies for authoring Project Specifications. Working across studios throughout the firm provides opportunities to mentor young professionals. While it’s always rewarding professionally to witness and participate in the rise of young stars, it brings tremendous joy to see them grow their passion and help shape their future. His specialties and project experience include transportation architecture and planning, golf clubs and recreation facilities, retail anchor stores, churches, schools, apartments, military and student Housing, and parking decks.

Session: RIB: Building a Collaborative, Data-Driven Specification Program

Fiona Levin-Smith

Vice President, Marketing & Specification, IFS Coatings

Fiona has worked in the coatings industry for over 15 years. She has held both global and national positions in various coatings companies. Over the past ten years Fiona has been focused on performance coatings and has focused on the sales and marketing of value added, performance powder coatings. An interesting and engaging presenter she recently delivered a sold out presentation at the AIA 2022 show. Fiona is passionate about educating architects and specifiers on the performance, technical and sustainability capabilities of architectural powder coatings. Fiona is also an active member of the Powder Coating Institute (PCI).

Session: How Specifying Powder Coatings Contributes to Sustainable Design

Jeffrey Martin, RRC, RRO, CIT, CEI (AWCI and EDI)

Partner, Fortress Building Envelope Consulting, Inc.

Jeff grew up in the commercial roofing business and learned all aspects of roofing, sheet metal, and related construction including owning his own roofing firm for 12 years. He obtained numerous certifications over the years and has been on the consulting side for 11 years as the owner of two companies. Jeff has passed the RRC, RRO, past CDT, Infrared Thermography Level 1, EIFS Inspector with AWCI, EIFS and Level 1 & 2 wall inspector with the Exterior Design Institute. He is past chapter member of the Carolinas Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association and past president of the Greenville chapter of CSI.

Session: The Myth of the Roof Warranty

Brian Miller

Vice President of Marketing, ARCAT Inc.

Brian began his career in commercial construction working with the once iconic Sweet’s Catalogue File in the late 1980s and early 1990s, very much the go-to product reference pre-Internet. In 1992, Brian founded Constructive Marketing Services, Inc., a full service sales and marketing consulting business, which focused on the building product trade. When Rick Jannott, the founder of ARCAT and his former boss at Sweets, approached Brian in late 2000 with an opportunity to leverage the transitioning of product selection from print to electronic media, he couldn’t resist. In the twenty years since, ARCAT has grown to become North America’s most comprehensive, most active, and most trusted product sourcing research platform. Brian was recently a participant in AIA’s Smarter Together Initiative which examined how product data is distributed and consumed, and is available for public speaking engagements across the country.

Outside of ARCAT, Brian is a weekend artist (oil painting), cyclist, and nature lover, making his home in Loveland, Ohio.

Session: ARCAT: Online Product Sourcing – A Quick History & Thoughts for the Future

Caitlin Morgan, CSI-EP, CDT, Assoc. AIA

Co-Founder, Emerge AEC

Caitlin Morgan is a goal-oriented emerging professional who strives to elevate industry standards and people across AEC. After experiencing first-hand how much of a toll the pandemic took on emerging professionals, she focused her professional development on networking and continuing education through co-founding Emerge AEC. Caitlin is a national speaker on topics ranging from goal-setting to continuing education standards, fueled by her passion for mentoring those entering AEC. As a member of CSI, Caitlin is the 2022 inaugural recipient of the CSI Outstanding Emerging Professional award and serves her local chapter’s Board of Directors as the Communications chair and Marketing chair.

Session: Crossing Paths: Cultivating Industry Collaboration

Hana Nguyenky, CSI, CDT, CCCA, CCS, LEED AP BD+C

Co-Founder, Emerge AEC

Hana has an educational background in Architecture, Anthropology, and Design Research. She intends to craft a professional career path that will allow her to pursue her interests in education design, specifications writing, material studies, and fabrication methods. Her goal is to be involved in work that will prepare, provide for, and help in nurturing the next generation. Three things that she endeavors to accomplish in her life are to investigate, innovate, and inspire. Hana’s greatest passion is knowledge, and as a co-founder of Emerge AEC, she is able to use the platform for sharing knowledge across the industry. As a member of CSI, Hana serves on her local chapter’s Board of Directors as the Education & Certifications Chair. 

Session: Crossing Paths: Cultivating Industry Collaboration

Melissa Payne, BECxP, CxA-BE

Manager Enclosure System Solutions, Tremco CPG, Inc.

Melissa possesses a strong foundation in industry standards related to commissioning processes, building science, construction observation, performance testing, and construction of building envelope systems. Her owner representative, consulting experience, forensic work, commissioning provider background, and manufacturer involvement gives her an all-enveloping perspective of the design and construction industry. Currently, she works collaboratively with design and construction trades to promote the integrity and performance of building enclosures. As Manager of the Enclosure Systems Solution team at Tremco CPG, she provides design review and risk mitigation services, product recommendations, and assistance with project-specific details for system terminations and transitions.

Session: Specifying the Commissioning Trifecta

Jason Puestow, CSI, CDT^®, CCCA^®, AIA, NCARB

Partner, Plunkett Raysich Architects

Jason is a Partner at PRA who oversees the construction administration studio of the entire firm. The firm, with four offices located nationwide, has design and building projects all over the country. He is recognized as an expert in construction administration. Jason is passionate about developing projects that improve the environment and lives of people.

Session: Six Steps to Successful Construction Administration

Heather Rice, CSI, CDT^®, CMTT

President, Smart Concrete Technologies, LLC

Heather Rice has worked in some aspect of the flooring industry for the last 20 years. She has worked for two major flooring contractors as well as three major manufacturers. Rice is considered an expert by her peers in all things flooring, including moisture mitigation and leveling. Her extensive knowledge of the industry and what manufacturers have to offer make her a resource to the AEC community. In 2017, she branched off on her own to establish Smart Concrete Technologies. What started as a company that independently tested concrete slabs for owners, architects, general contractors and flooring contractors has grown to independent product representation, flooring inspection, technical solutions and installation.

Session: How to Manage Moisture in Concrete: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

Casey Robb, FCSI, Distinguished Member, CCPR^®, CDT^®

President and Business Development Consultant, C.F. Robb Consulting Services, LLC

Casey has 35 years of construction product experience in architectural promotion, commercial market strategy, and specification development with many of top building product manufacturers (BPMs). He has provided numerous motivational seminars, product presentations, and business development training with a variety of BPMs and industry associations. Prior to becoming a business development consultant in private practice, he was Director of National Specifications for Kingspan Insulated Panels and National Commercial Business Development Manager for DuPont. He has also served on various commercial market segment teams in new product development, channel strategy, and route to market tactics supporting national product rollouts and initiatives. He is currently serving as Past-Chancellor of the CSI College of Fellows. Casey promotes the practice of being a “trusted adviser” to those we serve. He has developed a strong professional acumen with top AECO leaders, building product manufacturers, and industry associations at the executive level throughout North America.

Session: The Product Rep Roundtable: The Future of Our Role

Daryl Robinson, AIA, FCSI

Principal Specifications Writer for AIA MasterSpec®, Deltek, Inc.

Daryl is a Principal Specifications Writer for AIA MasterSpec® with Deltek, Inc. He has over 38 years of experience in the architectural profession, where he has served various roles including Project Manager, Project Architect, and Contract Administrator. He is a Certified Construction Specifier (CCS) and Contract Document Technologist (CDT), as well as a Fellow in the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI). Daryl is a Licensed Architect in the State of Colorado.

Daryl's background includes working with several architectural firms all over the country, such as Gensler, HKS, Inc., Neumann Monson Architects, and LKA Partners. He is a graduate of Texas Tech University with a Bachelor of Architecture Degree.

Session: Deltek: Quality Specs Start with Quality Content

Bill Roper

Western Regional Sales Manager, ISE Logik Industries, Inc.

Bill Roper brings four decades of construction industry experience and knowledge with a focus on moisture control and management. With a diverse background with key product leaders from painting and drywall, to architectural product manager, and then national quality manager, Bill's role with ISE Logik is key for our market leadership of proactive concrete moisture control for floorcovering and roofing.

Session: A Tale of Two Projects: It Was the Best of Times, It Was the Worst of Times

Elias Saltz, FCSI, CDT^®, CCS^®, SCIP

Senior Specifier, Conspectus, Inc.

Elias is an Illinois Licensed Architect, a Certified Construction Specifier, CSI Chicago Past President, and current president of CSI North Central Region. He is also the SCIP Secretary. Elias has written construction specifications for private and Government clients, using various project delivery methods. Projects included multi-family residential, historic preservation, hospitality, healthcare, and institutional and commercial facilities. He consults on constructability, building envelope detailing issues, code issues, materials selection, cost comparison, and general coordination, from schematic design through contract administration. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture degree from Washington University in Saint Louis and a Master of Architecture from Miami University.

Session: Real-World Applications for UniFormat^® Project Specifications

Jeffrey E Sample

Construction Tech Thought Leader, Ironman of IT LLC

Jeff Sample has devoted the past 20+ years to transforming companies. Jeff optimizes companies throughout the construction industry by designing solutions, optimizing strategic advantages, and breaking down information silos. His passion for outdoor adventure and Ironman competitions garnered him the moniker "The Ironman of IT." 
As Industry Evangelist for Join, Jeff promotes collaboration and the transformation of preconstruction to help project teams reach their potential. His depth of IT experience in various industries and his passion for continuous improvement have made Jeff a popular speaker and vocal thought leader in construction, spending much of his time educating on multiple topics to better the industry as a whole.

Session: Target Value Design: How Preconstruction, Collaboration & Technology Are Impacting the Future of Design Intent

Hugh Seaton, CSI

General Manager, CROSSWALK^®

Hugh is General Manager of CROSSWALK^®, the suite of standards-based software products that are powering project delivery tools across the building lifecycle. Prior to Crosswalk, Hugh has worked as general manager and founder of a number of software companies, from VR elearning to AI construction applications. A former tech marketing executive and marketing professor, Hugh brings decades of technology experience to the built environment, and a passion for the standards and professional community of CSI.

Sessions: CROSSWALK^® for Professionals: CSI Standards at Your Fingertips, The 'Three Horizons' Framework for Innovation: Understanding Current and Future Technologies, Talent Reawakening: The Future of Workforce Growth & Success

Scott Torrey

Commercial Director, Guardiant at Corning Incorporated

Scott has driven innovation at Corning for over 20 years by building strong relationships with customers and matching technical solutions with real world challenges. As commercial director for Corning® Guardiant®, Scott is focused on building awareness for residual disinfectant surface technology, elevating our standards for surface disinfection, and adding a layer of protection to spaces where we need it most.

Session: PPG: Copper Armor ATP

Brian Valdez, CSI, CCPR, CDT

Senior Specialist, Architect & Specifier Group

When he’s not searching for Chicago’s best restaurants and jazz spots, Brian Valdez, CSI, CCPR, CDT is helping architects and designers in the Midwest tune up their plans with the best LiftMaster solutions for their projects. Brian is proud to be able to work directly with architects to assist in site planning review, product and system recommendations, preparation of construction specifications, and assistance with identification of installation best practices.

Session: LiftMaster: The Role of Door and Gate Operators in Today's Technological World

Andrea Zawodny, CSI, CDT^®, CCS^®, LEED-AP

Senior Specification Writer, HOK Kansas City

Andrea is a Senior Associate and Senior Specification Writer for the architecture firm, Hellmuth, Obata, & Kassabaum (HOK). She has 27 years of construction industry experience, and 22 years of experience in specification writing, procurement documents, contract document preparation, and construction contract administration activities. She is a Certified Construction Specifier and currently writes specifications for projects produced by HOK's Kansas City office. Andrea is also a heck of a baker.

Session: Specifying From Scratch

Bryan Ziga, CSI, CCS^®, Associate AIA

Project Manager, Prime AE Group

Bryan specializes in roof and envelope projects at PRIME AE Group with experience in healthcare design, code analysis, residential HVAC, and land research and negotiation. He is CSI CCS certified and wants to do his part to promote sustainable design one specification at a time. He is currently an active member of the CSI Akron-Canton chapter, a board member of the AIA Akron chapter, and testing for licensure.

Session: Carbon and Our Ability to Reduce Its Footprint