Friday, October 17

7:30 - 8:30 AM  |  Breakfast and Visit Resource Tables/Tech Hub

Breakfast Sponsor:  

+ Tech Hub Demonstrations

The Tech Hub is a dedicated space where attendees can explore tabletop displays from leading construction and specifications software companies. Discover innovative products, watch live demos, and engage with industry experts to find solutions that enhance you and your team’s daily workflow.

Sponsored by:

8:00 - 8:30 AM  |  CSI Annual Business Meeting (Members Only)

8:45 - 9:30 AM  |  Keynote Session

+ Next-Gen Specifiers: Tech, Talent & Relevance for a Future-Proof Profession

See how two top industry leaders are redefining the future of specifications in an era transformed by technology and shifting workforce dynamics. Following an update about the CSI formats roadmap and technology innovations, join new CSI Fellows Tom Lanzelotti, FCSI, CDT (Principal, Gensler), and Cam Featherstonhaugh, FCSI, Lifetime Member, AIA, NCARB (TruexCullins), facilitated by CSI CEO Mark Dorsey, as they share real-world strategies for leveraging AI and technologies to enhance value to your firm or your project while elevating the core skills that make specifiers indispensable.

Explore actionable approaches to recruiting and retaining emerging talent, reframing the specifier’s role, and future-proofing your professional brand. This isn’t about replacement—it’s about relevance, respect, and reimagining what it means to thrive in specification, project delivery, and design collaboration today.

Speakers:

Cam Featherstonhaugh, FCSI, Lifetime Member, AIA, NCARB, Senior Associate, TruexCullins

Tom Lanzelotti, FCSI, CDT,  Principal, Gensler

Panel Facilitator:

Mark Dorsey, CAE, CSI CEO

9:30 - 9:45 AM  |  Break

9:45 - 10:45 AM  |  Breakout Sessions #16-19

+ Specifying BECx Success: Navigating the Evolution of Building Enclosure Commissioning

The Building Enclosure Commissioning (BECx) process aims to verify that the performance of building enclosure components meets the owner’s objectives throughout each phase of a project. While this concept is not new, the formal requirements of the BECx process have 

rapidly changed over time. What started in the shadow of the mechanical commissioning process has now developed into its own segment of the building industry with ever-evolving codes, certifications, and guidelines dedicated to BECx. Despite this, there is still confusion on how to define the BECx scope in specifications. In this session, we will dive into updates to industry guidelines, including the newest version of LEED v5 that was released in the spring of 2025. We will review the background of BECx, discuss how to develop a defined scope, and effectively create a BECx specification for the best project outcome. We will discuss enclosure testing procedures and illustrate the importance of BECx specifications with case studies and lessons learned.

Learning Objectives:

• Interpret the new LEED v5 Fundamental and Enhanced Commissioning requirements for building enclosure commissioning and how to effectively apply them to projects. 

• Create a project-specific scope for BECx that adds value to a project, meets current guidelines, and achieves the owner's goals and objectives for a high-performing building. 

• Develop a BECx specification section that clearly outlines the scope, defines the project team's roles and responsibilities, and proactively addresses common project issues. 

• Evaluate enclosure testing procedures to create a testing plan that is suitable for achieving the owner’s goals, tailored to the enclosure systems selected, and can be integrated into the construction process.

Speaker:

Colleen Stuber Zukanovic, AIA, LEED AP, BECxP, Project Director, Simpson Gumpertz & Heger

This session is approved for 1 AIA HSW LU.

+ Industry Transformation with Cloud-Based Specifications: Unlocking New Levels of Efficiency

In a rapidly evolving industry, how can we elevate specifications to transform architectural and engineering efficiency while upholding the health, safety, and welfare of building occupants? This highly interactive session will delve into how to harness cloud-based specifications to revolutionize collaboration, early engagement, transparency, and administrative organization in the architectural and engineering fields to improve the well-being of end users.

Using real-world case studies, presenters will demonstrate how collective, real-time engagement of the full project team leads to higher-performing and safer buildings that provide more value to their occupants. Attendees will explore how early and proactive coordination mitigates risks, supports public welfare, and drives more thoughtful design solutions.

Participants will gain firsthand experience making informed decisions through small group working sessions facilitated by our presenters. These collaboration scenarios will be shared with the entire audience, showcasing how cloud-based approaches can overcome the communication and decision-making limitations of traditional specification writing.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify how a cloud-based specification approach enhances multidisciplinary collaboration—regardless of team size—to support cost-effective decisions that optimize building performance and occupant health, safety, and comfort, while promoting long-term sustainability for owners and communities.

• Discover how early integration of specifications with design documentation improves project timing and decision-making, reducing reactive changes that could compromise occupant well-being or code compliance, and strengthening outcomes that serve the public interest.

• Illustrate how transparent, inclusive collaboration enables teams to proactively ensure life safety, material integrity, and regulatory adherence by aligning specifications with owner goals and public welfare considerations across the design and construction process.

• Recognize the value of maintaining records of design and specification decisions in one location to capture lessons learned and support continuous improvement in future projects—ultimately leading to safer, healthier, and more responsive environments for building occupants and stakeholders.

Speakers:

Johnathan Manza, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, Associate, Technical Director, CosciaMoos

Steve Gantner, RA, CCS, CCCA, CDT, Executive Vice President, Conspectus, Inc.

This session is approved for 1 AIA LU.

+ Critical Specifications Collaboration Between Design Professionals, Manufacturers, and Specification Writers

Specification writing is both an art and a science, requiring precision, clarity, and the right technical support. Manufacturer representatives are vital resources in this process, yet many struggle to align their expertise with what design professionals and specification writers truly need. Miscommunication and information gaps can lead to missed opportunities and weakened specifications. This session will explore the key challenges specification writers face and provide actionable strategies for manufacturer reps to deliver the right information at the right time. Participants will learn how to tailor technical content, anticipate specification writers’ needs, and position products more effectively within specifications. Participants will learn how to build stronger relationships with specification writers, have greater influence in the specification process, and develop the ability to provide solutions that truly matter. Join us to refine your approach and become an indispensable partner in bringing high-quality projects to life!

Learning Objectives:

• Recognize how collaboration with design teams can enhance the accuracy of specifications, support occupant safety, and improve overall project outcomes. 

• Analyze design standards to acquire insights into how understanding the fundamentals of specifications and comparing building materials can impact product selections, occupant health, and project performance. 

• Develop comprehensive knowledge of specifications, divisions, and market analysis to facilitate connections that lead to safer and more sustainable built environments. 

• Incorporate strategies for integrating principles of equity and accessibility into specifications while leveraging cloud-based platforms to enhance collaboration and ensure compliance with health and safety standards.

Speaker:

Holly Jordan, FCSI, CDT, CCS, SCIP, LEED AP BD+C, President, Principal Specifier, Jordan Consultants

This session is approved for 1 AIA HSW LU.

+ Optimizing Industrial Facility Projects with BIM: Execution Plans for Owners

In this session, participants will explore how Building Information Modeling (BIM) can revolutionize industrial facility projects. The focus will be on creating and implementing BIM Execution Plans (BEPs) tailored for owners. Attendees will gain insights into process improvements that enhance project lifecycle efficiency, reduce risks, and meet sustainability goals. Real-world case studies from Industrial facilities will illustrate the practical application of BEPs. The session will also discuss aligning BIM strategies with ESG frameworks to address sustainability challenges in industrial projects. 

Learning Objectives: 

• Develop a BIM Execution Plan (BEP) tailored to the needs of industrial project owners. 

• Evaluate the role of BIM in enhancing project lifecycle efficiency and sustainability. 

• Identify key process improvements enabled by BIM in industrial project delivery. 

• Integrate BIM with ESG principles to achieve sustainability goals in industrial facilities. 

Speaker:

Chaitanya Korra, CDT, LEED Green Associate, Senior Design Manager, Redwood Materials

This session is approved for 1 AIA HSW LU.

10:45 AM - 11:15 AM  |  Visit Resource Tables/Tech Hub

+ Tech Hub Demonstrations

The Tech Hub is a dedicated space where attendees can explore tabletop displays from leading construction and specifications software companies. Discover innovative products, watch live demos, and engage with industry experts to find solutions that enhance you and your team’s daily workflow.

Sponsored by:

11:15 AM - 12:15 PM  |  Breakout Sessions #20-24

+ Building Enclosure Testing - Eliminate Ambiguity Through Specifications

Specifying building enclosure testing often results in a complicated mash-up of mysterious ASTM numbers strewn across many specification sections in Divisions 07 and 08. This creates confusion among all stakeholders and can lead to ambiguity about what is applicable, what is owed and by whom, how much and where, when testing should occur, and what defines success. In this session we’ll review the benefit of a single Division 01 building enclosure performance specification to consolidate performance requirements as opposed to sprinkling information across dozens of sections elsewhere in the project manual. Real-life examples and case studies will be on display to show what works and what doesn't work. While not a central focus, the session will also cover common building enclosure tests that are regularly specified. 

Learning Objectives:  

• Understand the benefits of utilizing a single Division 01 specification to clarify all building enclosure performance criteria as opposed to dozens of sections with haphazard references.  

• Learn critical information that is required for a tight building enclosure performance specification.  

• Learn how consultants, owners, designers, and contractors can all collaborate to add value to the process of specifying and procuring testing.  

• Learn some basic tests used for building enclosures and what systems they should be applied to. 

Speaker:

John Bergman, P.E., BECxP, CxA+BE, Quality Support Manager, Power Construction 

Hans Walter

This session is approved for 1 AIA LU.

+ Reduce RFIs and Project Delays: Align Drawings and Specs

Well-aligned drawings and specifications are the foundation of successful construction projects, helping teams meet deadlines, control costs, and deliver excellence. When these documents work together effectively, projects experience fewer RFIs, minimal change orders, and smoother construction—saving valuable time and money at every stage. In this session, you'll learn practical strategies to align drawings and specifications, structure documents effectively, and use consistent terminology. We'll also cover how to write clear construction requirements and create cohesive project documentation, illustrated with real-world examples of successful coordination. This session is perfect for professionals looking to improve their skills in creating organized, clear, and consistent specifications—especially those who haven't been deeply involved in specification writing or wish to enhance coordination with other team members.  

Learning Objectives: 

• Write clear and actionable requirements in both drawings and specifications that contractors can easily execute, reducing RFIs and preventing costly project delays. 

• Align drawing notes with specification sections using consistent references and industry standard terminology to streamline communication and prevent errors during construction.  

• Implement a structured table of contents that enhances drawing keynotes, reduces misinterpretations, and ensures consistent, clear project documentation.  

• Apply effective review techniques to identify and resolve discrepancies between drawings and specifications, ensuring greater accuracy and alignment across project teams. 

Speaker:

Scott Taylor, AIA Associate, CSI CDT, SCIP, NOMA, Senior Specification Writer, Deltek

This session is approved for 1 AIA LU.

+ Interpretation and Utilization of Specifications

You have a specification, now what? Step through the structure of specifications, how to review specifications during design, how to use specifications for quality control during design, how to use specifications during bidding, construction administration and dispute resolution. Course will discuss how to properly interpret what is written in the specification in relation to governing building codes, referenced standards, manufacturer’s product instructions and drawing details and how to maintain quality in the field during construction. Through case studies, groups will step through a problem to resolution.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe how technical specifications relate to Division 01 requirements, procurement requirements, Construction Agreement and General Conditions.

• Utilize specifications to facilitate effective pre-installation conferences and various quality assurance and quality control measures during construction.

• Effectively use specifications to address Requests for Interpretation in the field and ensure design intent, safety and quality are provided.

• Effectively use specifications in conjunction with referenced standards and guidelines to facilitate overall project quality, safety and compliance with building codes.

Speaker:

Jon Willis, CSI, CCS, CCCA, CDT, President and Senior Specifier, ASCS, Inc. (Architectural Specifications Consulting Service)

This session is approved for 1 AIA HSW LU.

+ SPECtacular Updates to Air and Vapor Barrier Specifications

There are not enough hours in the day to keep up with all the changes related to the building enclosure. Changes to codes, materials, strategies, and green programs can make you dizzy and ready to just give up! Well, do not fear, the Air Barrier Association is here! In this session we’ll discuss the most up-to-date test methods, standards, and key items to update in your specifications, and the impacts of moving to net zero buildings. We’ll also discuss how building airtightness plays a key role. We must go from “okay” building enclosures to super-high performance to not rely solely on renewables to meet net zero goals. But it's not just about air, we need to talk about moisture too. We’ll review important aspects to consider from a moisture management strategy. 

Learning Objectives: 

• Define performance requirements that are critical in achieving net zero construction. 

• Articulate key specification language based on changes to building codes, material standards, and sustainability programs.  

• Write a specification for the whole building airtightness testing to ensure clear and concise intent.  

• Assess to determine airtightness performance requirements and how they relate to reducing moisture movement through the enclosure system. 

Speaker: 

Ryan Dalgleish, Chief Operating Officer, Air Barrier Association of America

This session is approved for 1 AIA HSW LU.

+ IFT! That’s it, Except for Addendums

You have four hours left till the Issued for Tender (IFT) drawings and specifications need to be released. In these high-pressure situations, the chaos is real! Have you captured all the items discussed from the previous design meetings? Did you take note of the major structural change in the IFT drawing set that was received from structural 30 minutes ago?  In these final moments, did you also review and coordinate every discipline’s work in the drawing set? If you can relate to this scenario, this session is for you. You know the challenges you will face during the construction of a poorly executed IFT. We’ll discuss practical ways to avoid this stressful situation. 

Learning Objectives: 

• Discover strategic tactics to ensure complete IFT drawing sets. 

• Evaluate the addendum stage process to catch and correct all errors before the tender closes.  

• Identify good practices and daily habits to ensure a complete tender package is issued with confidence.   

• Anticipate when the tender closes, you will be confident in your work and abilities knowing the project will run smoothly and be built accurately over the next construction stage while keeping the extras to a minimum. 

Speaker:

Matt Brennan, Assoc. AIA, Architectual Technologist AIBC, Construction Administrator Consultant, What the RFI

This session has been approved for 1 AIA LU.

12:15 - 2:15 PM  |  Certification Luncheon & Closing Keynote

Luncheon Sponsor:        Keynote Sponsor:  

+ Event Details

AECO professionals who earned their CDT^®, CCS^®, CCCA^®, or CCPR^® in the past year will be honored. Join in cheering their accomplishment and enjoy lunch too!

+ Keynote: How to be More Interesting Than a Cell Phone^®

Speaker: Deedre Daniel, Founder, The Interesting Conversations Company 

In today’s distracted world, being truly interesting is your superpower. Whether you want to grow your career, expand your network, or simply make more memorable moments, the key is knowing how to attract—and keep—the right kind of attention.

In this fast-paced, laugh-out-loud keynote, you’ll discover practical (and often hilarious) ways to break free from boring conversations, ditch bad habits, and connect with people in meaningful, memorable ways.

You’ll learn how to:

• Recognize and replace the Nine Negative Habits that kill connection.
• Master the Five Skills that make you magnetic—like developing empathy and debating with respect.
• Build stronger relationships faster by thinking creatively and embracing humor.

You’ll walk away with strategies you can use the very same day—whether you’re at work, at an event, or just talking with friends.

2:30 PM - 5:00 PM  |  Offsite Tours

Offsite tours are a great way to see more of Cleveland with your peers while also earning learning units. Conference registration is required. Spots are limited! Email registration@csinet.org to add a tour to your itinerary.

+ Cleveland Innovation District Hard Hat Tour

The Cleveland Clinic Foundation and Lerner Research Institute are expanding laboratory research facilities as part of the Cleveland Innovation District. This Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) effort with HOK, Gilbane, and major trade partners brings together healthcare and higher education institutions to foster innovation, accelerate research, and educate the workforce of the future.

Learning Objectives:

• Designing with a Steering Committee – Evaluate criteria for research facility success, including urban site challenges, stakeholder engagement, lab safety, and guiding principles for design.
• Project Development and Documentation – Understand contractual differences between IPD and traditional delivery, including the use of lean construction techniques and major trade partner involvement.
• Modular and Prefab Construction Opportunities – Identify and evaluate benefits of modular walls, labs, and building systems to improve quality, safety, and efficiency.
• Sustainability Opportunities through Integrated Design – Assess sustainable material selection, electrification-ready systems, and cost-benefit tools for aligning client goals with building performance.

Fee: $75

2.5 LU | AIA HSW

+ Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland Tour

Visit the Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland to explore the updates that brought the former “Medical Mart” building into the collective convention center complex. Learn the original intent of the project, the design vision of converting the uses of spaces to better align with the goals of the convention center, and walk through the challenges of updating the rooftop terrace space while maintaining egress when changing uses. The tour concludes with a brief history about the creation of the Superman character and its meaning to the city of Cleveland, followed by the installation of the Superman Statues in the adjacent plaza.

Learning Objectives:

• Learn the original design intent of the project.
• Understand the design vision of converting the uses of spaces to better align with the goals of the convention center.
• Review the challenges of updating the rooftop terrace space and maintaining egress when changing uses.
• Gain a brief history about the creation of Superman and the installation of the Superman Statues in the adjacent plaza.

Fee: $75

2.5 LU | AIA HSW

+ Tremco Tour: Fire Safety & Building Envelope Performance

In this guided tour, you will learn how Tremco Labs assesses building envelope performance by combining the capabilities of their state-of-the-art Facade Fire Lab and Building Science Lab. These labs work together to provide testing and critical insights for specifiers, aiming to ensure safe, resilient, and high-performing building envelopes. Here's how each lab contributes to this comprehensive assessment:

• Facade Fire Lab: This lab specifically focuses on fire safety by testing wall assemblies under controlled conditions to evaluate their fire performance. This ensures that the building envelope can withstand fire events, contributing to the overall safety of the structure.
• Building Science Lab: This lab addresses various aspects crucial for durability and high performance by analyzing wall assemblies for:    
  • Air and moisture infiltration, which are critical factors in preventing water damage, mold growth, and maintaining indoor air quality.
  • Thermal conductivity, evaluating how well the envelope insulates, impacting energy efficiency and occupant comfort.  
  • Material compatibility, ensuring that different components of the building envelope work together effectively over time without degrading each other, which is vital for long-term resilience.

By integrating the findings from both labs, Tremco can provide a comprehensive understanding of how wall assemblies perform under various conditions, encompassing both immediate safety concerns like fire and long-term performance aspects related to environmental stressors and material interactions.

Learning Objectives:

• Learn how wall assemblies are tested for fire safety under controlled conditions to contribute to the overall safety of buildings.
• Understand the methods used to analyze wall assemblies for air and moisture infiltration, critical factors for maintaining occupant health and preventing building degradation.
• Grasp the significance of evaluating thermal conductivity in wall assemblies to ensure occupant comfort and energy efficiency, thereby enhancing overall welfare.
• Recognize the importance of assessing material compatibility to ensure long-term resilience and high performance of building envelopes, contributing to both safety and welfare.

Fee: Free

2.0 LU | AIA HSW