Speakers

Alexandra Apostolou, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, CDT

Senior Specifier, Architect, Corgan

Alex is a Senior Architect and Specifier with 25+ years of experience leading complex, high-profile projects in Transit, Water Treatment, Industrial, Education, and Municipal Facility Development. Proven expertise in driving multi-million and billion-dollar projects to successful completion through strategic planning, risk management, and a commitment to quality. She is skilled in optimizing project processes, and enhancing efficiency, through process improvement and quality assurance. Strong leadership in cross-disciplinary coordination and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Known for driving innovation and streamlining operations, with a focus on sustainability, cost control, and efficiency improvement. Specialized technical expertise in procurement, construction documentation, and technical specification writing across a broad range of sectors.

Session: Up Your Construction Documents Game – Link Specifications & Model

Anna Atchison - CSI, CDT, LEED Green Associate 

Enterprise Account Executive, Sherwin Williams

With a degree in Interior Design and minor in Architecture and Business, Anna Atchison has been with Sherwin-Williams Paint Company for 14 years.  In her current role as an Enterprise Account Executive, she specializes in Sports Stadium and Arena projects where she assists architects, specification writers and designers with questions covering all coating categories - including those found in Division 05, 07, 08 and 09.

Session: Specifying the Right Coating Technologies for Sports and Entertainment Spaces

Dory Azar, OAA, LEED AP, MRAIC

Architect, RIB Software

Dory Azar is an architect and social media influencer who captivates large audiences with his distinctive blend of architectural knowledge and humor. With over 150,000followers on Instagram and 100,000 on TikTok, Dory's videos have amassed over 100million views and over 1 million shares. Dory has redefined the way people perceive architecture through his laid-back approach, demystifying a profession that can seem enigmatic to the public. His unique take on discussing architecture has been featured in media outlets such as The Daily Mail, Archello, and City Life Magazine.

Session: Social Media for Architects (and Spec Writers)!

Amy Baker

Registered Architect and Specifications Consultant

Amy is a Registered Architect and Specifications Consultant with over 20 years of experience in commercial construction. She specializes in the technical development of projects with a passion for enclosure detailing, building science, codes, and specifications. Amy is pleased to serve on the Board of Directors for the Building Enclosure Council (BEC-GD), the Detroit Chapter of the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI), Specification Consultants in Independent Practice (SCIP), and the Air Barrier Association of America (ABAA). She is also on RIB SpecLink’s Product Innovation Advisory Board, where she contributes ideas for improving the functionality of one of the leading spec writing platforms in North America. Amy holds two degrees from Lawrence Technological University, where she has been recognized as the university’s 26th Distinguished Architecture Award Recipient.

Session: Social Media for Architects (and Spec Writers)!

John Bergman, P.E., BECxP, CxA+BE

Quality Support Manager

Succinctly put, John has dedicated his entire career to quality in building design and construction. He currently supports all divisions within Power Construction in maintaining quality on a vast array of projects. His experience covers everything from single family homes to ground-up hospitals, with each presenting their own challenges. He plays an integral role in assisting project teams achieve durable, energy efficient, and sustainable buildings while navigating technical challenges in both design and construction. He is a licensed Architectural Engineer (IL) and a credentialed Building Enclosure Commissioning Process Provider and expands on his previous experience working in building diagnostic testing, building forensics, and education in structural engineering. John has also worked in sustainability consulting to assist building owners and design teams set sustainability goals for projects and providing guidance to ensure project goals are met.

Session: Building Enclosure Testing - Eliminate Ambiguity Through Specifications

Sylvia Bowman, CDT

Principal, CertiFloor

With 35+ years of chemical engineering expertise and 25+ years of commercial flooring project management experience, Sylvia Bowman witnessed many preventable flooring failures caused by contractors not following specifications, with no independent firm to catch these deviations. This resulted in invalid warranties and finger-pointing between owners, design teams, contractors, and manufacturers.

She champions the need for owner-retained flooring quality assurance—a non-proprietary approach requiring independent verification during installation to ensure specification compliance and warranty validity. CertiFloor is among the firms providing independent flooring system verification, using proactive protocols that prevent problems before they occur while protecting owner investments with comprehensive compliance documentation. 

Session: The Specification Fix That Eliminates Flooring Failures

Matt Brennan,  Assoc. AIA, Architectural Technologist AIBC

Construction Administrator Consultant, What the RFI

With more than 23 years in the architectural profession, Matt brings a deep expertise in both design and construction administration. His portfolio includes K-12 institutions, landmark high-rises, destination hotels, performing arts theatres, and luxury private homes.

For over 17 years, Matt has specialized in construction administration, leading projects through site meetings, RFIs, submittals, and supplemental changes. Through his consulting firm, What the RFI, he provides comprehensive CA services, executive process assessments, and mentorship for architects seeking to strengthen their practice. As a recognized speaker, Matt has presented at A4LE, AIA, AIA Aspire, AUGI, OAA, and CSI conferences throughout North America, sharing insights on construction administration, studio processes, and the evolving role of technology in practice. Beyond consulting, he hosts the What the RFI? podcast, where he engages industry leaders in conversations on architecture, construction, and innovation.

Session: IFT! That's it, Except for Addendums

Jose Carrasco

Industry Relations Manager & Marketing Specialist, Advanced Architectural Products

Jose serves as Industry Relations Manager & Marketing Specialist for Advanced Architectural Products, fostering relationships with industry stakeholders and connecting them with the thermal efficiency and structural advantages of GreenGirt continuous insulation and SMARTci building enclosure systems. He brings nearly a decade of experience working with architects, engineers, and contractors on codes and standards development within structural engineering.

Session: Stop Throwing Building Performance Out the Window

Ryan Dalgleish

Chief Operating Officer, Air Barrier Association of America

Ryan has been involved in the building enclosure and building performance areas of construction for over 25 years.

Ryan is an educator and developer of building enclosure education and credentialing programs for building sub-trades, architects, code officials and consultants and is part of the Quality Assurance management team for field air barrier installation across North America.

Ryan is a certified Net Zero building instructor and is a frequent speaker at various technical events and conferences across North America. Ryan obtained credentials in Adult Education and Leadership from the University of Manitoba and has been mentored and trained by some of the best building scientists in the world.

Session: SPECtacular Updates to Air and Vapor Barrier Specifications

Deedre Daniel

Founder, The Interesting Conversations Company

Deedre Daniel is a former corporate America executive who refused to settle for a mundane and uninspiring life. Feeling stuck in her job and trapped in a monotonous routine, she bravely embarked on a career change, bidding farewell to her stable, nearly two-decade-long insurance career at GEICO.

Determined to live a life aligned with her values, she founded not one but two businesses. The first, The Interesting Conversations Company® empowers individuals and companies to stand out from their competition and seize more opportunities using Deedre's unique three-part formula: creativity, humor, and forging meaningful connections. Her second venture, The Big Fat Tip 501(c)(3), is a nonprofit that spreads hope and creates unforgettable moments by surprising strangers with generous $1,000 tips.

Shortly after launching her businesses, the world was suddenly grappling with the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Interesting Conversations Company (based on in-person events) was immediately in danger of folding. Deedre fearlessly adapted her new card game invention into The Very Interesting Game Show®. This innovative virtual show bridged the gap and brought people closer while social distancing, using platforms like Zoom. Deedre is known for having a zany sense of humor, and her talks fill rooms with infectious laughter. Regardless of the topic, you're guaranteed an entertaining experience leaving you in stitches! And her content is so engaging that people aren't distracted by their phones. 

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

AK Dash

 CTO and Head of R&D, RIB Software North America, Inc

AK Dash is a seasoned software technology leader with 30 years of experience, including 15+ years in construction technology. As CTO and Head of R&D at RIB Software North America, he led the development of SpecLink, a widely used cloud platform for managing construction project specifications. SpecLink is leveraged by thousands of firms worldwide. Mr. Dash is passionate about leveraging data, analytics, BIM, and AI to enhance efficiency and sustainability in engineering and construction.

Session: Collaborative Intelligence for Achieving the 6 Cs in Construction Specifications

Laura Derrick

Project Manager & Architect, Missouri State University 

Laura is a registered architect and has been a proud business owner for over 25 years. Laura has been a member of CSI since 1995. She specializes in small to mid-range projects with a focus on rehabilitation and historic preservation in the Springfield, Missouri region. She has experience as a corporate architect for a major regional bank and as a consultant/project manager-owner’s representative for Bass Pro Shops for 15 years. She’s taught classes at the Southwest Missouri State University in Construction Management and Interior Design Departments. Laura Joined Missouri State University's Planning, Design and Construction Office as a Project Manager-Architect in 2019 where she resumed teaching in the Interior Design Department. Currently Laura is the Project Manager for the largest academic project in the history of MSU, $120 million addition and renovation to the 50-year-old science building. 

Session: Where Spec Writing is Today

Andy Eisner

Consultant and Specifications Manager, Everest Systems

Andy Eisner has over 20 years of experience in the commercial roofing and building envelope industry, with a broad portfolio of retail, commercial, sports venues, municipal, and mixed-use projects. His tenure ranges from smaller-scale 3,500 ft² installations to mammoth restorations exceeding 1 million ft²—reflecting a fluid skillset that spans both product-level installation and strategic specification management.

Andy has been a member of CSI for 2 years and IIBEC for 12 years. Andy manages all aspects of architectural and consultant specifications for Everest Systems with a national team of Technical Sales Managers.

Session: Fluid-Applied Membranes – Sustainable Long-term Solutions

Cam Featherstonhaugh, FCSI, Lifetime Member, AIA, NCARB

Senior Associate, TruexCullins

Cam is a Licensed Architect in Vermont and holds a Masters of Architecture from Norwich University (2007).

Cam currently serves on the CSI Foundation Board of Trustees, the Vermont CSI Board of Directors (Treasurer) and on the Norwich University School of Architecture and Art Board of Fellows. Cam is a past Board Chair of CSI National.

As a senior associate and leader of the K-12 Education Studio at TruexCullins, Cam has extensive knowledge of sustainable design, building practices, and building science. Cam is well versed in the educational pedagogy of 21st century learning and adept at guiding his clients through the challenges and opportunities of the design and construction process. His recent projects include the Williston Central School, The Winooski School District, The Warren Elementary School, and Southwick Hall at the University of Vermont. 

Cam is also a classically trained pipe organist at St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Northfield, Vermont. Cam lives in central Vermont with his wife Stephanie, his sons Arthur and William, two cats named Burnham and Picard, and a Mini-Aussie-Blue-Heeler mix named Mabel. 

Session:

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

Shelby Fisher, CSI, CCS, LEED AP BD+C

Lead Specification Writer, Kirksey Architects

Shelby Fisher is the Lead Specification Writer for Kirksey Architecture in Houston. She has been writing specifications full-time for the past six years. She produces specifications for a wide range of project types, including healthcare, K-12, science and technology, higher education, and multi-family.

Shelby has been a member of the CSI Houston Chapter for eight years. She enjoys CSI as a way to connect with Architects, Specifiers, Engineers, Contractors and Product Representatives while working towards improving the AEC industry.

When Shelby isn’t writing specifications, she loves cooking and eating with her husband. She is a native Houstonian and feels passionate about the Houston Tex-Mex scene. She has two young children who keep her very busy as well as the cutest golden retriever you will ever meet.

Session: Spec Fundamentals

Steve Gantner, RA, CCS, CCCA, CDT

Executive Vice President, Conspectus, Inc

Steve is based in St. Louis, MO, and has more than 30 years' experience in all phases of construction, including programming and planning, budget review, design, coordination, construction documentation, design team management, construction specifying, and contract administration in a wide variety of facility types. His specialty areas include design-build, construction management, integrated project delivery, owner project requirements documentation, project systems and performance descriptions, procurement and construction specifications; quality assurance reviews; and is a Conspectus Cloud (award-winning decision management tool) expert and development contributor. Steve is passionate about education and collaboration between the specifier and the construction team and is available for classes and presentations.

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

Michael V. Geary, CAE

President & CEO of the International Facility Management Association (IFMA)

Michael V. Geary, CAE, has over thirty years of leadership experience with associations and nonprofit organizations. Currently, he serves as the President & CEO of the International Facility Management Association (IFMA). Founded in 1980, IFMA is the world's largest and most widely recognized organization for facility management professionals, supporting over 25,000 members in more than 140 countries.

Previously, Mike was the Chief Executive Officer of the Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS) and the SMPS Foundation, serving over 7,400 marketing and business development professionals in the architecture, engineering, and construction industries. His career also includes serving as the President & CEO of AmericanHort and the Horticultural Research Institute, which are the trade association and foundation for the horticulture industry. He concurrently led the Ohio Produce Growers & Marketers Association and the Nursery & Landscape Association Executives of North America. Earlier in his career, Michael was Executive Director of the American Institute of Architecture Students and held senior staff roles at the National Association of Home Builders, The Delta Chi Fraternity, and the North American Interfraternity Conference.

Michael is an active volunteer, and his involvement includes previously serving on the boards of directors for the Delta Chi Fraternity and America in Bloom (a nationwide community beautification organization), and he is currently a board member for the Delta Chi Fraternity Foundation. Michael has also been an active volunteer for the American Society of Association Executives and several local organizations. He was born in Kitwe, Zambia and is a graduate of the University of Florida, earned the Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation in 2000 from the American Society of Association Executives, and earned a Certificate in Diversity & Inclusion from Cornell University. 

Session: Keynote Session

Lynsey Hankins, FCSI

National Color & Design Manager, The Pittsburgh Paints Co.

Lynsey Hankins, Color & Design Manager for The Pittsburgh Paints Company, specializing in Color and Design Specifications for Dealers. Lynsey is an AIA, IDCEC and NKBA accredited presenter. Lynsey’s passion for color and design comes from several years in the high-performance coatings divisions. Lynsey has partnered with owners, architects and designers to assist in providing the best quality products to fit the look and feel the space and owner requires.

Sessions:

Where Spec Writing is Today

Neuro Inclusive Design Directions

Sherry Harbaugh,  FCSI, CCS, RA, SCIP

Specifier, TRC Inc

After nearly 30 years in the construction industry predominantly as an independent specifier, Sherry’s current focus revolves around education, empowering construction teams to be confident about communicating with specifications and learning about construction materials.

She is passionate about educating the next generation of our industry in the aspects of specifications and enjoys working with teams, researching products, and building relationships within the industry. Sherry believes product knowledge comes from asking questions, listening to others, and digging into information.

Sessions:

Pre-Conference Specification Workshop - Demystifying Specifications

Determining the Level of Detail to Include in your Specification

Sarah Hirsch, RA, LEED AP, CCS, CDT

Associate Principal, Director of Technical Services, BNIM

Sarah Hirsch is an Associate Principal and BNIM’s Director of Technical Services. Sarah directs the firm’s technical processes and works with design teams and individuals across BNIM to advance building information modeling, quality assurance, project management, and sustainability. Sarah has contributed to a wide variety of project types with a diverse range of clients including governmental, cultural, corporate, institutional, retail, and residential. With a focus on specification writing and coordination of contract documents, Sarah provides a vast knowledge of materials and systems. Many of her projects focus on integrating sustainable design including multiple building designed to achieve Living Building Status. Sarah has played a key role in developing BNIM’s sustainability master specification and is working with teams to incorporate compliance with LEED v4 into their projects.

Session: Up Your Construction Documents Game – Link Specifications & Model

Jacqui Hogans, CSI, AIA, RIBA

Senior Project Manager, McGinnis Chen Associates (MCA)

With over 20 years of experience in historic restoration building enclosures, Jacqui Hogans knows facades. Her career began in New York City, on projects ranging from the Guggenheim Museum and the American Museum of Natural History to office buildings and high-rise residential buildings. Since 2015, Jacqui has been a Project Manager at McGinnis Chen Associates (MCA) in San Francisco, consulting on remedial and historic repair programs in addition to consulting on new construction projects. She leads a team of architects, engineers, and technical staff affectionately dubbed the “Façade Squad," as part of San Francisco’s new Façade Inspection and Maintenance Ordinance. If that wasn’t enough, she heads up MCA’s East Coast presence from her new homebase in the New York City area.

Session: Teaching Old Dogs New Tricks: Specifications for Historic Preservation

Melody Jackson, CSI, CDT

Senior Specifier, Populous

Melody Jackson is a senior spec writer for Populous. She is a highly experienced professional with over six years’ experience as a full-time spec writer and with five years’ experience in the manufacturing sector as an architectural representative focusing on roofing, waterproofing, and building science. Melody has a B.S. in Chemical Engineering and a Master of Architecture degree from the University of Houston. She has conducted education sessions for the 2024 CSI National Conference, the 2024Lone Star Sustainability Forum, the 2023 SCIP conference, and the 2023 Mexico Roofing Day in Mexico City. She also taught hundreds of AIA continuing education classes to architecture firms and IIBEC chapters related to roofing, waterproofing, hurricane wind uplift, and severe weather. Melody is President of the Houston CSI chapter and has served in several officer positions over the years.

Session: Spec Fundamentals

David Jordan, CFDAI

Director Technical Sales Support, Forte Opening Solutions

With 23 years in the architectural wood door industry, David Jordan continues to find new challenges and opportunities that make his work both dynamic and rewarding. As Director of Technical Sales Support, he brings deep technical expertise, from basic stock wood doors to highly customized and historic projects, helping customers and owners navigate complex specifications and project requirements.

David has held territory and regional sales roles at Five Lakes Manufacturing, Marshfield Door Systems, ASSA ABLOY (Graham & Maiman), and Masonite Architectural. A respected industry voice, he has presented at WDMA national and regional conferences and served as chair of the WDMA I.S. 6-A 2021 (Stile and Rail Doors) quality standard edition. He holds a DHI Fire Door Assembly Inspectors certificate and is pursuing additional certifications.

Session: Mastering Division 8 Wood Door Specifications: Clear & Confident Communication

Holly A. Jordan, FCSI, CDT, CCS, SCIP, LEED AP BD+C

President, Principal Specifier

Holly A. Jordan, FCSI, CDT, CCS, SCIP, LEED AP BD+C, has produced construction specifications for a variety of building types. As a Certified Construction Specifier, her experience includes sustainable building, diverse project delivery methods, specification format conversion, and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing specifications. She has held offices and served on committees for the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) at the local, regional, and national levels. She has organized and taught courses on construction specifications and LEED® certification and made presentations on topics related to construction contracts and specifications to various design firms, Opal Group, manufacturers, ASHRAE and NAWIC. She is well known for her engaging presentation style, serving as a distinguished guest in panel discussions, presentations, conferences and webinar training sessions. She has meticulously crafted construction specifications for a diverse range of projects. She believes in the power of collaboration towards crafting specifications renowned for technical excellence.

Session: Cricial Specifications Collaboration Between Design Professionals, Manufacturers, and Specification Writers

Randolph Kirchain

Director, MIT Concrete Sustainability Hub

Dr. Randolph Kirchain is a Principal Research Scientist within the MIT Materials Systems Lab and serves as the Director of the MIT Concrete Sustainability Hub. Dr. Kirchain's research focuses on the environmental and economic implications of materials decisions. As part of the CSHub team, he has developed tools to analyze life-cycle cost and environmental footprint for various infrastructures, such as buildings, pavements and pavement networks.

Session: Sculpting the Future with Carbon-Neutral Concrete

Chaitanya Korra, CDT, LEED Green Associate

Senior Design Manager, Redwood Materials

Chaitanya Korra is a multidisciplinary sustainability strategist and Senior Design Manager at Redwood Materials, specializing in sustainable building design for critical infrastructure. He focuses on carbon reduction, smart building technologies, IoT, Building Management Systems, and Building Information Modeling. His expertise lies in guiding cross-disciplinary teams to implement environmentally responsible practices that drive innovation and create lasting benefits for both businesses and communities. As a passionate researcher, he has published peer-reviewed articles on IoT integration with the built environment, circular economy, and green building technologies, bridging the gap between research and real-world sustainability solutions.

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

Tom Lanzelotti, FCSI, CDT

Principal, Gensler

Tom Lanzelottie was born and raised on Long Island, NY, and attended The Ohio State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Architecture and a Master of Architecture.

Upon his graduation, Tom returned to his New York roots taking his first job with a small mission-critical-focused firm, LRM Architect, where he honed his practical skills, leading to his architectural license.

In a serendipitous meeting at a local NYC food establishment, Tom was introduced to Gensler and joined the global architecture, design, and planning firm in June 1994. He shifted his focus from mission-critical facilities to corporate headquarters, where he became a go-to resource in the New York real estate industry for building evaluations and phased complex projects, playing a critical role in new building projects.

During his 31-plus years with Gensler, Tom has evolved from a project architect delivering high-quality, innovative projects to a firmwide technical leader focused on talent development, educating, and mentoring emerging professionals via real-life project situations and in-house learning tools and programs. He was promoted to principal in 2007.

Looking to expand his professional growth, network, and influence beyond his Gensler portfolio, Tom joined CSI as his professional organization of choice in June 2008 and since then has taken on many leadership roles and positions in the CSI Metro New York Chapter and Northeast Region. He is currently director of the Northeast Region on the CSI Board of Directors. He serves with the purpose of enhancing the membership experience and raising CSI’s profile in the AECO industry.

Tom has lived a career path built upon following his passions for self-improvement, the growth of emerging professionals, the elevation of his chosen profession, and the advancement of the industry. 

Session:

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

Eric D. Letbetter, AIA, SCIP, CSI, CCS

Architect & Specifier,  Letbetter Ink

Eric is a NCARB Certified Architect and CSI Certified Construction Specifier with over three decades of experience in the field, Eric Letbetter leverages his extensive architectural and specification writing expertise to provide specification writing, specification writing teaching and training, and quality control services for the construction industry.

Session: Determining the Level of Detail to Include in Your Specification

Johnathan Manza, AIA, LEED AP BD+C

Associate, Technical Director

Johnathan Manza has spent more than 10 years working through the design, documentation, permitting, and construction phases of various multifamily, hospitality, healthcare, and mixed-use commercial projects. Through this experience he has gained a keen interpretation of building code and technical detailing expertise that exceeds the requirements for building enclosure and field constructibility.

As the Technical Director at Coscia Moos, Johnathan is engaged with all projects from conception through construction, coordinating with teams to document efficiently, detail realistically, and sail through permitting. During construction he helps teams develop solutions to field issues that crop up to keep the process moving smoothly.

He is also responsible for developing the firm’s professional knowledge through thorough quality control, product and technology research, and seminars on building science, documentation standards and code compliance.

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

Seamus McGrady

Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer, Chalkline, Inc.

Seamus McGrady is the Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer at Chalkline, Inc. has 18+ years of experience in the AECO market and over 30 years at software engineering startup companies. Prior to Chalkline, McGrady served as VP of Sales and Marketing at InterSpec, developer of e-SPECS, for almost 10 years. McGrady has developed strong relationships throughout the AECO market with both partners and customers with a focus on delivering clients solutions that are easy to implement and bring a rapid return on investment. McGrady holds a BS in Electrical Engineering.

Session: Up Your Construction Documents Game – Link Specifications & Model

Brian Miller

Senior Vice President of ARCAT

Brian Miller is Senior Vice President of ARCAT, North America’s largest and most active building product research and sourcing platform. Since his early days at Sweet’s Catalogue, through his many years as a building product sales and marketing consultant, and now presently with ARCAT, Brian has spent the past 38 years working with the sales and marketing executives of the most frequently specified brands in commercial construction. Brian now shares the insights gathered during that time as his way of giving back to an industry he loves, in the hopes of giving today’s brand leaders a significant leg up on their competition.

Brian presently serves on the Board of Directors for CSInext.

Outside of ARCAT, Brian is an oil painter whose works have been featured in juried exhibitions. He’s an avid cyclist, a lifelong Rotarian, world traveler, and nature lover. He makes his home in Loveland, Ohio.

Session: With the Best of Intentions: 13 Common Mistakes Made by Building Product Marketers

Kevin Mlutkowski

Director of Marketing, Advanced Architectural Products

Kevin joined Advanced Architectural Products in 2023, bringing over 20 years of experience in expanding market opportunities within the fields of structural engineering, fire protection, and green building. He holds a BS in Technical Communications with a minor in Chemistry from Lawrence Technological University, as well as an MBA from Oakland University. In his current role, Kevin leads efforts to expand the markets and strengthen the brands for GreenGirt continuous insulation systems and SMARTci building enclosure systems.

Frank Mruk, CSI, FAIA, RIBA, LEED AP

Senior Director of Building Innovations, NRMCA

Frank Mruk is an architect, technology strategist and founder of the Center for Strategic Innovation and the Center for Smart Building Technology and is a Senior Director of Building Innovations at NRMCA. Educated at Pratt and Oxford University, he has taught at SVA/RISD/Parsons/NYU and at NYIT where he served as associate dean of Architecture. Earlier he served as VP of Strategy for Morgan Stanley and directed Turkish Architect Emre Arolat’s NYC office. Frank is a past President of AIA RI, NYC ASP and Metro NY CSI. He is a Morse Stone Fellow and a Fellow of the AIA and the Strategic Planning Society. He currently serves as Northeast Region VP.

Session: Sculpting the Future with Carbon-Neutral Concrete

Nishanth Patil

Group Product Manager,  RIB Software North America, Inc

Nishanth is a seasoned Product Leader in AEC Tech, with over 12 years of experience in construction technology product management, self-perform execution, and construction management across heavy civil, ultra-luxury residential, and industrialized/DfM Aconstruction. He is currently focused on: Artificial General Intelligence (AGI): Applying AGI to make pre-construction and construction processes more efficient, equitable and sustainable. Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT): Elevating trust and validation in construction and project management practices using DLT and Digital Twins.

Session: Collaborative Intelligence for Achieving the 6 Cs in Construction Specifications

Amanda Patterson

Architectural Design Manager

Amanda Patterson brings over 15 years of industry experience, with the last four focused on commercial wood door specifications. As Architectural Design Manager, she works closely with spec writers, architects, and designers to ensure doors not only meet functional requirements but also enhance the aesthetic and performance of a space. Amanda is passionate about the role doors play in design, transforming environments through thoughtful material selection and expert specification. Whether it’s selecting the perfect veneer, ensuring compliance with industry standards, or refining specifications for clarity, she is committed to helping professionals achieve their vision. Looking for the perfect finish? Amanda can help you navigate our new color collection to find the right fit for your next project.

Session: Mastering Division 8 Wood Door Specifications: Clear & Confident Communication

Jack Sadler

Co-Founder and CEO, Part3

With a background in launching tech products across healthcare, finance, travel, and construction, Jack brings over a decade of experience in product strategy and innovation. As CEO and Co-Founder of Part3, he’s deeply involved in every part of the business—from shaping product direction to supporting customers and speaking at industry events.

 
Jack is passionate about applying AI to modernize construction administration and giving architects and engineers the tools they need to work smarter, not harder.

Session: Embracing AI in Design and Specification Writing

Marc Selvitelli, CAE

President and CEO of NAIOP, the Commercial Real Estate Development Association

Marc Selvitelli, CAE, is the President and Chief Executive Officer of NAIOP, the Commercial Real Estate Development Association. He is responsible for leading the professional team in collaboration with the board of directors to fulfill the organization’s strategic goals. Selvitelli joined NAIOP’s staff in 2006 as vice president for membership and chapter relations and later served as chief operating officer.

Marc is passionate about fostering an organization of innovation and collaboration that will propel NAIOP, its chapters and members into the future. Under his leadership, 22,000+ members in 56 chapters across North America come together to strengthen the commercial real estate industry and the built environment.

He possesses more than 30 years of association management experience and has filled several roles with associations in the real estate, construction and financial services industries. His experience includes roles in government affairs, strategic planning, affiliate relations, and membership development.

Marc received a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from the Pennsylvania State University. He is active member of the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) and is a certified association executive (CAE). Outside of NAIOP, you are likely to find Marc on an airplane or at a ballpark as he combines his love of travel with the goal of attending a game at every major and minor league stadium. 

Session: Keynote Session

Colleen Stuber Zukanovic,  AIA, LEED AP, BECxP

Project Director, Simpson Gumpertz & Heger

Colleen Stuber-Zukanovic is a licensed architect with sixteen years of experience in the design and construction industry. She started her career in new construction design of hotels, offices, healthcare, and mixed-use buildings. Colleen has also worked on the Owner's side as a project manager owner's rep in construction projects in Chicago. She then transitioned her career to specialize in building envelope consulting. Her experience includes existing building exterior wall renovations, roof replacement projects, building assessments, and existing condition investigations.

She uses her past experience working on the architect’s side, the owner's side, and with investigating existing building issues to bolster an expertise in envelope consulting and building envelope commissioning (BECx). She acts as an extra set of expert eyes andears reviewing the building enclosure of new construction projects. This includes designassistance, technical reviews of the design documents, submittals, installation site visits,and enclosure field testing during construction.

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

Ryne Sullivan

Koolduct National Sales Manager, Kingspan Insulated Panels, Inc

Ryne is a 3rd generation sheet metal worker who studied Aerospace engineering at Iowa State. I have worked in the HVAC ductwork industry for over 12 years manufacturing and representing 5 distinct phenolic ductwork brands. As a member of ASHRAE Technical Committee 5.2 Duct Design, I am committed to advancing knowledge and best practices related to the design, performance, and application of HVAC Duct systems.

Session: Writing Phenolic Ductwork Specifications

Mitch Taylor,  CSI, CDT

Architectural Services Director, Woodwork Institute

With a family woodworking lineage dating from 1929, Mitch Taylor’s expertise and commitment to the industry were developed throughout his life. He joined Taylor Millwork and Stair Co as a teen then attended Cal State Dominguez Hills before commencing full-time work in 1974.

Beginning in production, he refined his skills in casework, stair assembly and installation, then moved onto estimation, detailing and engineering.

In 1984 Mitch co-founded Taylor Brother Stair Co., specializing in upscale residential and commercial projects, offering high-quality millwork and casework, and focusing on innovative solutions for complex design challenges.

Since 2011, as Woodwork Institute’s Architectural Services Director, Mitch offers certification inspections, AIA seminars and expert guidance to design professionals and millwork firms.

Session: Specifying Wood Veneers

Scott Taylor, CSI, CDT, SCIP, NOMA

Senior Specification Writer, Deltek

Scott is a Senior Specification Writer at Deltek with over 20 years of experience in developing comprehensive specifications, construction documents, and standards for architectural and engineering projects. His expertise spans construction materials and methods, field observations, and the creation of quality assurance drawings, spec

reviews, and architectural drafting production. He specializes in construction specifications, project systems, and performance descriptions, ensuring the highest standards in every project. Scott has worked on a wide variety of projects, including multi-family residential, healthcare, medical offices, K-12 and higher education, retail, recreational, hospitality, prefabricated warehousing, and a range of institutional and government facilities at the federal, state, and county levels.

Session: Reduce RFIs and Project Delays: Align Drawing and Specs

Marcy Tyler

Director, Building Facades, Tremco CPG Inc.

Marcy has worked in the commercial construction market for more than 15 years with a focus on the building facade. She has been on hundreds of job sites, troubleshooting, training and providing product and system support. She and her team provide thought leadership and education centered around documented system performance for the entire building enclosure.

Session: Decoding Assembly Testing for Optimal Building Performance

Hans P. Walter, AIA, ACHA 

Project Architect & Principal, DLR Group

Hans Walter is a Principal at DLR Group and has been a design leader on several complex, highly technical projects for nationally recognized healthcare institutions including the Cleveland Clinic, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, and the Mount Saini Health System.   He is committed to designing environments that balance the technical demands of healing with the psychological needs of caring.   Nationally, Hans serves as the director for the Design Awards Committee for the AIA Academy of Architecture for Health, and he contributes to the Career Path Committee with the American College of Healthcare Architects.

Session: Building Enclosure Testing - Eliminate Ambiguity Through Specifications

Jon Willis,  CSI, CCS, CCCA, CDT

 President and Senior Specifier,  ASCS, Inc. 

Jon Willis received his B.S. Degree in Architectural Engineering at the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Colorado Boulder. Jon received his M.A. Degree at the University of Colorado Denver. He is a member of the ConstructionS pecifications Institute, a Certified Construction Specifier (CCS), Certified Construction Contract Administrator (CCCA), Construction Document Technologist (CDT) and a registered Engineer. Jon is a specification competition award winner and recipient of many certificates of appreciation. Jon has taught at the University of Colorado at Boulder, Arapahoe Community College and routinely teaches certification preparation courses, education and technical courses for CSI. Jon has 35+ years’ experience in the fields of architecture, engineering and specification writing. Jon has worked on many high profile or highly technical projects throughout the United States and on all continents around the globe. Jon is noted for his technical expertise and has worked on many “one-of-a-kind” highly unique projects.

Session: Interpretation and Utilization of Specifications

John Zalepka

Director of Training & Industry Engagements, Specified Technologies Inc. (STI)

John Zalepka is a recognized leader in advancing professional education and industry engagement within the construction and building materials sectors. As the Director of Training & Industry Engagements at Specified Technologies Inc. (STI), John oversees the development of innovative training programs that set the standard for firestop education. His expertise has been instrumental in equipping thousands of professionals annually, including architects, engineers, contractors, and distributors—with the knowledge to enhance life safety and code compliance.

John's visionary approach combines cutting-edge technology with dynamic instructional design, making complex concepts accessible and actionable. An award-winning speaker and Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM), he is celebrated for his ability to inspire and educate diverse audiences.

In addition to his role at STI, John serves as the Communications Chair for the International Firestop Council, driving industry-wide initiatives. His unique blend of technical knowledge, training excellence, and industry influence makes him an indispensable resource for CSI’s National Conference.

Session: Specifying Safety: Advanced Firestop Strategies for the Built Environment

Corey S Zussman, AIA, NCARB, ALA (IL, IN, WI) RBEC, RRC, REWC, RWC, RRO, CABS, CDT CQM,CxA+BE, BECxP, LEED AP BD+C Level II Thermographer

QAQC Vice President, AECOM Hunt

As a forensic architect registered in several states, Corey Zussman has practiced in the construction industry for more than 30 years. He specializes in the building envelope, restoration, preservation, life safety, and interior finishes. While working on over 2000projects, Corey conducts constructability reviews, pre-installation meetings, comprehensive envelope meetings, and construction observations. He has also become known for providing educational opportunities throughout the industry and has produced more than 200 "lessons learned" papers. Topics include building envelope and life safety concerns, enabling Corey to proactively address issues during design review, pre-construction, and construction. In addition, he has over 15 industry articles about building envelope, life safety, and interior topics. He is also a frequent presenter at local and national conferences and associations, and he has over 50 AIA-accredited presentations.

Session: New Flooring Concers with Vertical Expansion from Existing Concrete Roof