9:15 - 10:15 AM | Breakout Sessions #1-5
+ Sculpting the Future with Carbon-Neutral Concrete
Value chain stakeholders have been striving to enable carbon-neutral concrete. Among other efforts the role of owners, developers, and agencies are crucial. Among solutions, quantifying the impact of productivity and specifications on embodied emissions needs special attention as concrete is generally overdesigned (beyond what is specified to account for inherent strength variance of mixes). In this presentation, we will show the impact of overdesign on the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of concrete mixtures. We also explain the GHG impact of prescriptive specifications for infrastructure, which mandate a minimum cementitious material (CM) content and limit supplemental cementitious materials (SCM) like fly ash and slag. This research quantifies the impacts of these measures and proposes low-carbon alternatives that maintain structural performance.
Learning Objectives:
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Understand how reducing cementitious materials (CM) content and increasing the use of supplemental cementitious materials (SCMs) can significantly reduce GHG emissions.
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Describe how current prescriptive specifications, such as minimum cementitious material (CM) content and maximum supplemental cementitious (SCM) limitations, constrain the ability to produce lower-carbon concrete.
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Evaluate how fine-tuning overdesign and variability can lead to carbon savings up to 15%.
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Formulate the relationship between strength variability and overdesign on the average strength and demonstrate why these two factors affect carbon emissions.
Speakers:
Frank Mruk, CSI, FAIA, RIBA, LEED AP, Sr. Director of Building Innovations, NRMCA
Dr. Randolph Kirchain, Director, MIT Concrete Sustainability Hub
This session is approved for 1 AIA HSW credit.
+ Collaborative Intelligence for Achieving the 6 Cs in Construction Specifications
Errors, inconsistencies, and poor coordination in construction specifications can derail project success, leading to costly rework and disputes. This session explores how artificial intelligence (AI)-powered collaborative intelligence is transforming specification management, quality control, and interdisciplinary coordination.
Discover how to apply AI and workflow automation to achieve the 6C’s of quality specifications—Clear, Concise, Complete, Coordinated, Correct, and Consistent.
Attendees will gain practical strategies to reduce risk, elevate documentation quality, and drive successful project delivery from design through construction.
Leave empowered with actionable insights to future-proof your specification workflows, drive better project outcomes, and set a new standard for accuracy, efficiency, and collaboration in construction documentation.
Learning Objectives:
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Understand the principles of AGI and AI agents and their transformative role in enhancing design workflows, decision-making, and collaboration across design and construction teams.
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Apply AI for Comprehensive Specification Quality Control: Apply AI techniques to automate quality control, identify risks early, and maintain high standards in specification development.
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Champion Collaborative Intelligence: Leverage AI-driven collaboration tools to align architects, engineers, contractors, and owners for real-time coordination and communication.
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Analyze Data for Predictive Decision-Making: Analyze real-time data insights to refine specifications, optimize design decisions, and improve outcomes across the project lifecycle.
Speakers:
Nishanth Patil, Group Project Manager, RIB
AK Dash, CTO and Head of Research and Development, RIB
This session is approved for 1 AIA LU.
+ Social Media for Architects (and Spec Writers)!
Struggling to stand out in the crowded AEC industry? Many architects and specification writers create incredible work but fail to leverage social media effectively. This session will tackle the biggest challenges professionals face—lack of time, strategy, and engagement—while debunking common myths about online branding. You'll learn practical strategies to create compelling content, grow your audience, and turn followers into clients. From platform-specific tips to engagement hacks, this session provides actionable solutions tailored for professionals.
By the end, you’ll walk away with a clear strategy, content ideas, and the confidence to make social media work for you. Whether you're new to digital marketing or looking to refine your approach, this session will give you the tools to establish your brand, expand your influence, and generate real opportunities.
Learning Objectives:
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Implement strategies to position yourself as an expert.
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Utilize proven tips and tricks to enhance your content creation process.
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Formulate your own unique content creation approach based on proven insights.
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Present yourself in a professional yet approachable way to attract clients and talent.
Speakers
Dory Azar, OAA, LEED AP, MRAIC, Architect, RIB
Amy Baker, AIA, LEED AP, CSI, CDT, SCIP, Architect and Specifications Consultant, Amy Baker Architect
This session is approved for 1 AIA LU.
+ Writing Phenolic Ductwork Specifications
This session will provide a comprehensive guide on writing specifications for phenolic ductwork, a high-performance alternative to traditional HVAC duct systems. As the industry moves toward more energy-efficient, sustainable, and health-conscious building solutions, specifying phenolic duct systems requires an understanding of material properties, installation standards, and compliance with industry codes. This session will equip specifiers, engineers, and construction professionals with the necessary tools to integrate phenolic ductwork into their projects effectively.
Learning Objectives:
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Understand phenolic ductwork. Learn the unique properties and advantages of phenolic duct systems, including thermal performance, weight reduction, and moisture resistance.
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Master specification writing. Gain insights into best practices for crafting CSI-compliant specifications for phenolic ductwork, ensuring clarity, compliance, and contractor alignment.
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Address code compliance. Explore relevant industry standards, including UL 181, ASHRAE 90.1, and SMACNA guidelines to ensure regulatory adherence.
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Enhance project delivery. Learn how phenolic ductwork can streamline installation, reduce labor costs, and contribute to high-performance building design.
Speaker:
Ryne Sullivan, Koolduct National Sales Manager, Kingspan Insulated Panels, Inc
This session is approved for 1 AIA HSW LU
+ Spec Fundamentals
Have you ever heard of Cincinnati chili? It’s considered Cincinnati’s most famous meal and it’s easy to make if you have a recipe to follow! Recipes describe the ingredients required and provide step by step instructions. Construction specifications are similar in that you have Products at Part 2 and Execution at Part 3. However, both experienced cooks and experienced spec writers would agree that nuance, reading between the lines, and tricks of the trade are important ingredients to achieve the best results. Join this innovative educational session to learn the basics of a three-part specification and develop skills to understand and write next-level specifications for your project. If you’re lucky you could leave with a great recipe! You might also hear your presenters engage in a “chili with beans or no beans” debate – truly an important topic for your Texas presenters.
Learning Objectives:
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Understand the three parts of a specification.
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Understand the best practices and nuances of spec language.
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Understand how to write a spec that exceeds typical minimum standards and how to effectively coordinate other spec sections.
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Learn how to effectively use manufacturer’s guide specs and understand when to use Basis of Design products.
Speakers
Melody Jackson, CSI, CDT, Senior Specifier, Populous
Shelby Fisher, CSI, CCS, LEED AP BD+C, Lead Specification Writer, Kirksey Architects
This session is approved for 1 AIA LU.