February 28-29, 2024
Commerce Club
Atlanta, GA
ABOUT SMARTWIN24: LEAP INTO THE FUTURE OF AEC MARKETING
SmartWIN24 is more than a conference; it's your time machine and launchpad into the future of AEC marketing. This transformative event is meticulously designed to be a catalyst for change within AEC firms. Why should you make the leap with us?
Executive-Level Networking:
This is the only gathering that unites AEC Firm Owners, CEOs, CMOs, VPs or higher in marketing and communications, and heads of HR responsible for recruiting. We cap attendance at 100 to foster meaningful dialogue and exchange of ideas.
Future-Proof
Strategies
We're diving deep into the Scalable 6—Branding, Communications, ABM, Digital, DEI, and Sales Enablement. Learn how to leverage these pillars to redefine your firm's Reputation, Relationships, and Revenue.
Client
Success Stories
Hear from some of the most growth-minded firms we've had the pleasure to work with. Their stories will provide you with actionable takeaways and inspiration for your own growth journey.
Intimate Learning Environment
Our intentional cap on attendance ensures you'll have the opportunity for meaningful exchanges that will serve you well long after the conference ends.
If you're ready to leap into the future and set a new trajectory for your firm, SmartWIN24 is your platform for takeoff.
WHY ATTEND SMARTWIN24?
AEC Marketing is changing. If you don't think so, you should definitely come so we can change your mind.
AEC Firm Owners need to understand how to measure marketing and what investments are required to elevate your brand in the sea of sameness.
AEC Marketers must learn to use technology to increase efficiency and achieve better results.
AEC BD Pros should not be relying on 1:1 relationships alone. Learn how to partner with marketing and use Data and automation to generate inbound leads.
One thousand other reasons that won't fit on this page.
If you're looking to make a lasting impression on the AEC industry's most influential leaders, SmartWIN24 is your golden ticket.
Don’t take our word for it! Hear from some of last year’s participants:
Vince DiPofi – CEO, SSOE
Sarah Keane – Marketing Principal, HOK
Jeanne Peck – CMO, Hudson River Studios
Ira Jackson – Premier Sponsor
SmartWIN24 Agenda
We're thrilled to introduce you to our handpicked lineup of speakers for SmartWIN24. Unlike other events that rely on open calls for speakers, we've curated a select group of thought leaders from our own Smartegies client roster.
These are professionals we know personally and have collaborated with to drive transformative results in the AEC industry. Each speaker has been chosen for their unique insights, proven strategies, and the impactful stories they have to share.
This is your opportunity to hear directly from the best in the business—those who are truly leaping into the future of AEC marketing.
Registration, Networking and Lunch
Date: February 28th
Time: 10:30AM – 12:00PM
Opening Remarks
Speaker: Judy Sparks
Date: February 28th
Time: 12:00PM – 12:30PM
Download PresentationGreat Scott! The future is here…
Speaker: Scott Steiding
Date: February 28th
Time: 12:30PM – 1:15PM
Download PresentationJoin us for an exhilarating journey into the future of the AEC industry with our opening keynote speaker Scott Steiding. With nearly three decades of experience in the AEC industry and a profound understanding of technology-driven systems, Scott stands at the forefront of the digital transformation era. As the President of Productive Pursuits and Smartegies Alliance Partner, he specializes in optimizing people, processes, and technologies to achieve remarkable outcomes in the AEC sector.
In this keynote, titled "Great Scott! The Future is Here…", Scott will explore the cutting-edge technologies that are reshaping the AEC industry. He will delve into the realms of AI, proposal automation, and data management, demonstrating how these advancements are revolutionizing traditional business development and marketing operations.
Drawing from his extensive experience, including over 22 years as the Vice President of Marketing at Morrison Hershfield, Scott will provide invaluable insights into bridging the gap between IT, Marketing, and Sales. His expertise in implementing scalable, technology-driven systems and his innovative approach to strategic accounts and automated marketing production have positioned him as a leading voice in the industry.
Attendees will leave this session equipped with the knowledge and strategies needed to navigate and leverage the technological disruptions on the horizon. If you're aiming to future-proof your firm and stay ahead in the rapidly evolving AEC landscape, Scott's keynote is an unmissable event.
Scott Steiding
President, Productive Pursuits
Smartegies Alliance Partner
Scott Steiding is an executive with a rich history in the AEC industry, boasting nearly three decades of experience across multiple continents. He's worn many hats—sales, marketing, operations, and corporate communications—to name a few. Scott is currently the President of Productive Pursuits, a consultancy that specializes in optimizing people, processes, and technologies for remarkable outcomes. His deep understanding of scalable, technology-driven His deep understanding of scalable, technology-driven systems makes him a go-to expert for firms navigating the digital transformation era.
We've invited Scott to SmartWIN24 for his unparalleled expertise in bridging the gap between IT, Marketing, and Sales. Before launching Productive Pursuits, Scott served as the Vice President of Marketing at Morrison Hershfield for over 22 years, where he revolutionized the firm's approach to strategic accounts and automated marketing production. His session will delve into the upcoming technologies that are set to disrupt traditional business development and marketing operations in the AEC industry. If you're looking to future-proof your firm by understanding and adapting to the technological shifts on the horizon, Scott's session is one you won't want to miss.
Revolutionizing Brand Positioning in AEC: Customer-Centric Storytelling
Speaker: Katie Cash
Date: February 28th
Time: 1:30PM – 2:00PM
Download PresentationJoin Katie Cash for an enlightening session on the evolving landscape of brand positioning in the AEC industry. In a world where branding extends far beyond a logo, this presentation delves into the nuances of integrating a strategic brand position across the entire relationship funnel.
Katie will guide attendees through the journey of transforming traditional branding approaches into dynamic, customer-centric storytelling. This session is designed to help AEC firms understand the importance of crafting a brand narrative that focuses not on the firm itself, but on the clients and communities they serve.
What You Can Expect to Learn:
- Beyond the Logo: Uncover the deeper layers of brand positioning that transcend traditional concepts and delve into the essence of what makes your firm unique.
- Integrating Brand Strategy: Learn how to seamlessly weave your strategic brand position throughout every stage of the customer relationship funnel, from initial contact to project completion and beyond.
- Customer-Centric Storytelling: Discover the art of telling a differentiated story that resonates with your clients, focusing on their needs, challenges, and aspirations, and how your firm provides solutions.
- Practical Insights and Examples: Gain practical insights and real-world examples of how AEC firms have successfully shifted their branding strategies to be more customer-focused, resulting in stronger client relationships and enhanced market presence.
Katie's session is a must-attend for AEC professionals seeking to elevate their firm's brand in a rapidly changing market. It's an opportunity to learn how to position your brand in a way that truly connects with and captivates your audience.
Katie Cash
Smartegies, SVP
Katie has more than 15 years of AEC marketing experience. She is skilled in devising creative strategies to help companies develop, refresh, and integrate their M&A brand messaging. Katie is known for her ability to implement effective campaigns, combining traditional and digital platforms, and has led more than 30 branding initiatives since joining Smartegies.
Building Big Brands in Small Firms: Smart Positioning and New Media Strategies
Speakers: Katie Cash, Joe Walker, Rens Hayes IV
Date: February 28th
Time: 2:00PM – 2:30PM
Download PresentationDiscover how smaller AEC firms are making a big impact in a competitive industry. This session features two firm owners who are successfully 'punching above their weight class' by leveraging innovative brand positioning and new media. These leaders have mastered the art of reaching their audiences more affordably and effectively, demonstrating that size does not limit impact or success.
What You Can Expect to Learn:
- Innovative Brand Positioning: Understand how these smaller firms have crafted compelling brand narratives that resonate deeply with their target markets, setting them apart from larger competitors.
- Leveraging New Media: Dive into the strategies these firms use to maximize their reach and engagement through new media channels, achieving remarkable visibility and influence.
- Affordable and Effective Marketing: Learn how these firms optimize their marketing budgets, using smart, cost-effective tactics to achieve results that rival those of bigger firms.
This session is a must-attend for AEC firm owners and marketing professionals from smaller firms looking to expand their influence. Gain insights into how strategic branding and the savvy use of new media can elevate your firm's presence and open up new avenues for growth and success.
Katie Cash
Smartegies, SVP
Katie has more than 15 years of AEC marketing experience. She is skilled in devising creative strategies to help companies develop, refresh, and integrate their M&A brand messaging. Katie is known for her ability to implement effective campaigns, combining traditional and digital platforms, and has led more than 30 branding initiatives since joining Smartegies.
Joe Walker
Founding Principal, Walker Architects
Joe Walker is the visionary behind Walker Architects' rapid ascent in the competitive Atlanta AEC market. With a firm belief in the brand promise of "Design for an Agile World," Joe has spearheaded the firm's expansion with a people-first mindset that resonates deeply within the industry. Under his leadership, Walker Architects has not only established a new office in less than two years but has also secured significant projects with the Georgia Department of Education and Columbus State University.
Joe's strategic approach is rooted in his unapologetic commitment to his company's core values, which has been instrumental in navigating the firm through the complexities of market penetration and brand establishment. His dedication to cultivating a culture that prioritizes people has enabled Walker Architects to attract top talent and foster an environment where innovative design meets practical application.
As a champion of agile methodologies, Joe has positioned Walker Architects at the forefront of the AEC industry, where adaptability and responsiveness are not just concepts but the cornerstones of every project undertaken. His participation in SmartWIN24 is a testament to his willingness to share the insights and strategies that have propelled his firm to success in a remarkably short period.
Joe's journey is a compelling narrative of strategic growth, brand integrity, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. His story is not just inspiring but also a blueprint for AEC firms looking to make their mark in today's dynamic landscape.
Rens Hayes IV
P.E., Co-Founder and Principal Engineer, H+O Structural Engineering
Rens Hayes is not your typical engineer; he's a marketing aficionado and a tech-savvy innovator who has turned the traditional world of structural engineering on its head. As the co-founder of H+O Structural Engineering, Rens has infused his passion for branding and technology into every facet of the company, creating a brand that's as robust as the structures they design.
With an insatiable appetite for marketing knowledge, Rens has delved deep into the world of click funnels, mastering the art of online engagement and lead conversion. His progressive thinking extends beyond just building a company; he's committed to building a brand that resonates within the AEC industry and beyond.
Rens's technological prowess led to the development of a proprietary cost index, a tool that has revolutionized the way architects understand and control the costs of structural elements, often yielding significant savings and fostering transparency in the construction process.
Beyond his engineering and marketing talents, Rens is the charismatic host of the 'Design Development' podcast, where he converses with the movers and shakers of today's commercial development, design, and construction scenes. His podcast has become a staple for industry professionals seeking insights and inspiration from the leaders shaping the future of AEC.
At SmartWIN24, we're thrilled to have Rens Hayes share his journey of brand building and innovation. His story is a testament to the power of marketing in the AEC sector and the remarkable potential of technology to create efficiencies and transparency. Rens's approach to business is a blueprint for 'Leaping into the Future,' and we can't wait for him to inspire our attendees with his visionary perspective.
Legacy Brands Evolving: Steering AEC Giants into a New Era
Speakers: Yasmine Murray, Sarah Keane, Greg Johnson
Date: February 28th
Time: 3:00PM – 4:00PM
Download PresentationIn an industry rich with history, legacy AEC firms face unique challenges as they navigate the modern landscape. This panel discussion brings together leaders from firms that have stood the test of time, boasting 50 - 100 years of industry presence. These are the brands that have weathered numerous leadership transitions, market fluctuations, and technological revolutions. Now, they stand at the forefront of a new era, adapting their strategies to meet contemporary market demands.
What You Can Expect to Learn:
- Adapting to Change: Hear from leaders of legacy AEC firms about how they are navigating the shift to modern marketing strategies, talent recruitment, and retention in an evolving industry.
- Sustaining Legacy in Modern Times: Learn how these firms are balancing their rich histories with the need to innovate and stay relevant in today's market.
- Strategies for Growth and Adaptation: Discover the approaches these firms are taking to grow and evolve their legacy brands, ensuring their relevance and success for the next century.
This session is essential for AEC Firm Owners, Marketing Principals, and anyone interested in understanding how established firms can successfully adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing industry. Join us to gain valuable insights into the evolution of legacy brands and how to navigate the challenges of modernizing while maintaining a firm's core identity.
Yasmine Murray
Esq., COO and General Counsel, HJ Russell & Company
We're honored to have Yasmine S. Murray, Esq., COO and General Counsel of H. J. Russell & Company, as one of our esteemed speakers. Yasmine directs and coordinates the activities of various departments at Russell, ensuring the company's vision and goals are successfully executed. With over a decade of experience at the firm, she has provided successful leadership on developments totaling more than 2,500 housing units and managed a portfolio of more than 3,300 units. She's a recognized leader, honored among the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s 2021 Corporate Counsel Diversity Champion, “Women Who Mean Business” for 2020, and 2018 Who’s Who in Black Atlanta “Game Changer.”
But what truly sets Yasmine apart, and why we've invited her to SmartWIN24, is her innovative approach to managing the firm's risk and financial investments through a strategic accounts framework. She's at the forefront of recognizing the seismic shifts in AEC marketing and is actively putting the right processes and infrastructure in place. Her work bridges the gap between billable teams, marketing, business development, HR, legal, and accounting, making her insights invaluable for any AEC firm looking to leap into the future
Sarah Keane
Marketing Principal, HOK’s Washington, D.C. Studio
Sarah is the Marketing Principal at HOK’s Washington, D.C. studio. She is responsible for the strategic direction of the studio’s marketing, business development, and communication activities. She works closely with the D.C. studio and firmwide market leaders to serve clients across the Washington region.
Sarah is also a member of HOK’s global marketing board and an active member of SMPS, she sits on the DC Chapter’s Education Committee.
Greg Johnson
PE, LEED AP Partner, Newcomb & Boyd
Greg Johnson is a leader who exemplifies a forward-thinking mindset in the AEC industry. As a Partner at Newcomb & Boyd, a firm with a century-long legacy, Greg has been instrumental in helping steer the company through leadership transitions, growth into new geographies, and growing the complexity of the firm’s collective portfolio.
Greg's approach to design and client service is mirrored in his strategy for marketing and business development. He applies the same level of informed leadership and collaborative decision-making to ensure that the relationships built with clients and employees are as high-quality and enduring as the services his firm provides. This holistic approach to project execution, client and employee engagement is a cornerstone of his firm's century-long success.
At SmartWIN24, Greg will share his journey, helping guide the firm through significant changes and adapting to the evolving landscape of AEC marketing. His experience effectively blending traditional values with modern marketing techniques makes him an invaluable speaker.
Leaping Together: Branding Strategies for Successful M&A in AEC
Speakers: Brandon Enochs, Eric Anest, Tiffany Konenkamp
Date: February 28th
Time: 4:30PM – 5:00PM
Download PresentationMergers and acquisitions are pivotal moments in the lifecycle of AEC firms. Whether the goal is to expand service offerings, enter new markets, or acquire specialized talent, the stakes are high. This panel discussion will delve into the different motivations and objectives behind M&A in the AEC industry, focusing on the intentional strategies employed to protect investments and ensure successful integration.
Hear from seasoned AEC firm owners and marketing executives who have navigated the complex waters of M&A. They'll share their unique perspectives on how to maintain brand integrity during these transitional periods, and how a well-thought-out branding strategy can make the difference between a seamless transition and a turbulent one.
What You Can Expect to Learn:
- The various motivations behind M&A in the AEC sector and how they influence branding strategies.
- How to protect your brand equity during a merger or acquisition.
- Real-world examples of successful brand integrations post-M&A.
- The role of internal communications in maintaining brand consistency and employee engagement during transitions.
Brandon Enochs
EPS, Chief Executive Officer, Stratus Team, LLC
Brandon Enochs is a demonstrated leader and the Chief Executive Officer at Stratus Team, LLC. A licensed professional engineer with more than 20 years of experience in project management, design, business development, and personnel management, he has led small to expansive projects and their teams to success globally.
Enochs' vision is clear: to propel Stratus Team's growth geographically, enhance operations, and attract top talent. He drives transformational growth strategies, nurtures high-performance teams instilled with a culture of accountability, and demonstrates exceptional business acumen in sales leadership and operations for the network of multi-disciplinary firms thatcomprise the Stratus network.
Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a keen focus on managing complex multidiscipline projects, structural and mechanical design, and strategic account management. His expertise lies not only in the growth and management of organizations but also in nurturing personnel development.
A native of West Virginia, Enochs holds a Bachelor of Civil Engineering from West Virginia University and a Master of Engineering Management from Penn State University. In addition to his academic accomplishments, he also served for six years in the Air Force National Guard, serving in West Virginia’s 130th Aircraft Wing’s Civil Engineering Squadron. In his downtime, Enochs spends time with his wife and three children. An athlete at heart, Enochs enjoys most kinds of exercise, particularly mountain biking. He also enjoys playing guitar and drums with his friends in their own neighborhood garage band.
Eric Anest
VP Marketing & Communications, Salas O'Brien
Eric Anest serves as VP of Marketing & Communications at Salas O'Brien. He has overseen the expansion and transformation of Salas O'Brien's marketing, playing a pivotal role in the company's growth from 300 to over 2,500 team members, the merger of more than 30 firms into Salas O'Brien, and a major rebranding effort that resulted in a simple, clear, and inspirational message. But most importantly, he has assembled a team of AEC marketers who are collaborative, humble, intelligent, and dedicated to making Salas O'Brien the best AEC firm in the galaxy.
Tiffany Konenkamp
CPSM, Director of Marketing and Division Manager, Century Fire Protection
Tiffany is a dynamic force in the AEC industry, exemplifying the trajectory of a marketing expert whose strategic vision and operational acumen have served her well at Century Fire Protection, one of the fastest-growing fire protection companies in the U.S. Her story is one of ascent, from her roots in marketing within the AEC sector to her current dual-hatted role as Director of Marketing and Division Manager.
At Century Fire Protection, Tiffany leads the Alarm & Special Hazards Service Division with a keen eye for innovation and efficiency. Her marketing expertise is equally evident as she spearheads comprehensive marketing strategies, encompassing everything from digital marketing to employee engagement. As a leader, she plays a key role in branding initiatives, particularly during mergers and acquisitions, aligning with Century Fire’s growth and vision.
Tiffany's career is marked by a series of transitions, from marketing to sales and operations, and back to marketing again, showcasing her versatility and deep understanding of the AEC industry's multifaceted nature. Her expertise is further solidified by her NICET Level III certification and her recognition within Century Fire’s Sales Achievement Award for outstanding sales achievements.
As a Certified Professional Services Marketer (CPSM), Tiffany has not only led SMPS Atlanta as Past President but has also been honored as Chapter President of the Year. Her commitment to the profession extends to her past role as Co-Chair of the national CPSM certification program, influencing the standards of excellence in AEC marketing.
An Auburn University alumna, Tiffany's spirited "WAR EAGLE!" echoes her enthusiasm and zest, which she brings to every initiative she leads. When she's not driving marketing and operational success, she's devoted to her family in Roswell, GA, and can often be found cheering on her son Hayden at the baseball field.
At SmartWIN24, we're proud to feature Tiffany as a speaker who has not only climbed the ranks within the AEC industry but has also shaped the strategic marketing landscape through her innovative approaches and dedication to excellence. Her insights into branding, digital strategy, and the integration of marketing within operations make her an invaluable contributor to our 'Leap into the Future' theme.
Closing remarks/Networking Happy Hour
Speaker: Judy Sparks
Date: February 28th
Time: 5:00PM – 6:00PM
Restaurant Round-Up/Dinner on your own
Date: February 28th
Time: 6:30PM
Breakfast Networking and 1:1 Consults (sign-up required)
Date: February 29th
Time: 8:30AM – 10:00AM
Welcome & Opening remarks
Speaker: Judy Sparks
Date: February 29th
Time: 10:00AM – 10:15AM
Navigating Tomorrow: AEC Market Forecast by Region and Vertical
Speaker: Greg Hart
Date: February 29th
Time: 10:15AM – 11:15AM
Download PresentationStart your Day 2 with a deep dive into the future of the AEC industry. Greg Hart, an authority in AEC business performance, will present an in-depth market forecast segmented by region and vertical. This is your chance to get ahead of the curve and plan your firm's strategy with data-driven insights.
What You Can Expect to Learn:
- Regional Insights: Understand the market dynamics in different geographical regions and how they could impact your firm's growth strategy.
- Vertical Opportunities: Discover which sectors within the AEC industry are poised for growth and how you can capitalize on these opportunities.
- Strategic Planning: Learn how to align your firm's goals with the market trends to leap ahead of your competition.
- Data-Driven Decisions: Equip yourself with the latest data to make informed decisions that will shape your firm's future.
Don't miss this opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the AEC market landscape for 2024 and beyond. Whether you're a firm owner, a C-suite executive, or a marketing principal, this session is designed to give you the tools you need to leap into the future confidently.
Greg C. Hart
President, PSMJ | Resources, Inc.
Greg Hart, President and Consultant for PSMJ | Resources is passionate about helping A/E/C firm leaders strengthen their businesses. In his career, Greg has completed hundreds of business valuations (the ultimate indicator of business performance and value creation) and advised on various mergers and acquisitions and succession plans. He is a valuable AEC consultant not only because he came out of the industry himself but because he can draw from the financial and analytical side of his background as well as the creative and “just go for it” side.
Navigating the Media Multiverse: A 101 Guide to Media Buying in the AEC Industry
Speakers: Mike Hoffman, Jeff Kinsler, Megan Gregory
Date: February 29th
Time: 11:30AM – 12:00PM
Download PresentationThe media landscape is more complex than ever, offering a multitude of channels to reach your target audience. But how do you make sense of it all, especially in the AEC sector? This panel brings together experts in Out-of-Home (OOH) advertising and radio/digital audio to demystify the world of media buying for you.
What You Can Expect to Learn:
- Channel Versatility: Understand the unique benefits and challenges of various media channels, from Out-of-Home (OOH) and Geofencing to radio and digital platforms.
- Strategic Investment: Learn how to allocate your media budget effectively to maximize ROI.
- Audience Targeting: Discover how to leverage geofencing and other advanced targeting techniques to reach the right audience at the right time.
- Real-world Impact: Hear compelling case studies that demonstrate how these media channels have helped AEC firms advance their 3Rs: Relationships, Reputation, and Revenue.
Whether you're a seasoned AEC marketer or a firm owner looking to leap into the future, this session will equip you with the knowledge and tools to navigate the media multiverse successfully.
Mike Hoffman
Director Brand Partnerships, i-Heart Media
Mike Hoffman is a seasoned media professional with a rich history in the marketing and advertising sector. Having been with iHeart Media for nearly a decade, Mike has honed his skills in radio advertising, media buying, and market research, making him a go-to expert in the field.
At SmartWIN24, Mike will delve into the expansive digital capabilities of iHeartMedia. With assets that span thousands of station and show websites, and a user base of over 167 million registered iHeartRadio enthusiasts, iHeartMedia's influence in the audio industry is undeniable. Their digital strategies, rooted in their stature as America's #1 Audio Company, encompass everything from brand awareness to conversions through their radio and digital advertising channels.
The reason Mike is on our roster? His adeptness at crafting bespoke solutions for the AEC sector. Whether the goal is brand visibility, lead generation, or recruitment campaigns, Mike's strategies have consistently hit the mark for AEC clients, making his insights a must-hear at our event.
Jeff Kinsler
Senior Media Consultant, OUTFRONT Media
Jeff has over 34 years of sales experience, with 22 of those years focused solely on media. He is a Senior Account Executive-Media Consultant at Oufront – an Out-of-Home (OOH) advertising business.
He is also a dedicated family person, happily married, and a proud parent to five children. The family is excitedly anticipating the arrival of a grandchild.
Megan Gregory
CEO, Cubed
Smartegies Alliance Partner
For over 20 years, Megan has worked in a variety of sales and marketing roles in data management software companies. And while the roles have been varied and include Business Development, Territory & LOB Sales Management, Partner & Alliances, Content Marketing, Marketing Operations, and Demand Gen; the thread that ties it all together is understanding companies want to gain more customers and keep the ones already earned.
As a Smartegies Alliance Partner, Megan uses this to help clients enhance their digital presence, optimize online campaigns, and integrate innovative media strategies.
Transitioning to a New Era of AEC Business Development and Marketing
Speakers: Beth Ament, Brooke Lewis, Katie Harris
Date: February 29th
Time: 12:00PM – 12:30PM
Download PresentationJoin us for an insightful panel discussion featuring three veteran AEC marketers who are actively navigating the industry's transition into a new era. These seasoned professionals are on the front lines of change, adapting daily to the evolving landscape of business development and marketing in the AEC sector.
What You Can Expect to Learn:
- Overcoming Growing Pains: Hear firsthand about the challenges these marketers have faced and overcome as they adapt to the changing demands of the industry. Learn how they've navigated the growing pains associated with these shifts.
- Reskilling for the New Era: Discover how these veterans have reskilled themselves, embracing new tools and strategies to effectively reach their customers in today's digital-first environment.
- Adapting to M&A Transitions: Gain insights into the unique challenges and opportunities presented by mergers and acquisitions. Learn how these marketers have managed brand transitions and integrated marketing strategies within new organizational structures.
- Practical Strategies and Lessons Learned: Benefit from the practical strategies and valuable lessons these experts have learned through their experiences, providing you with actionable takeaways to apply in your own firm.
This panel is a must-attend for AEC professionals who are looking to understand and navigate the complexities of transitioning into a new era of business development and marketing. Whether you're facing the challenges of digital transformation, brand integration post-M&A, or reskilling your marketing team, this discussion will offer you the insights and guidance needed to succeed.
Beth Ament
Associate Vice President, Senior Manager of Communications and Marketing, Epsten Group – A Salas O’Brien Company
As the Senior Manager of Communications and Marketing at Epsten Group, a Salas O’Brien company, Beth Ament stands at the intersection of sustainability and storytelling. With a career spanning over 15 years, Beth has honed her expertise in sustainability consulting, transportation demand management, and community outreach, all while leading a dynamic team of creatives dedicated to broadcasting the Epsten Group narrative.
Beth's approach to marketing is deeply rooted in her commitment to health and wellbeing, principles that resonate with the core values of Epsten Group. Her leadership extends beyond traditional marketing roles; she is an integral part of the company's Health and Wellness Committee, a TRUE Advisor, and a LEED Green Associate. Her dedication is also evident in her personal pursuits as a certified yoga instructor and a chairperson for the USGBC Georgia Market Leadership Advisory Board.
The organic growth of Epsten Group and its recent acquisition by Salas O'Brien have been milestones marked by Beth's leadership in ensuring the brand's authenticity and customer experience remain intact. She champions a brand living strategy that not only communicates but embodies the company's mission in every facet of its operations.
Beth's presence at SmartWIN24 is particularly impactful as she embodies the conference's ethos of 'Leap into the Future.' Her insights into brand stewardship post-acquisition and her innovative approach to internal brand alignment offer invaluable perspectives to AEC firms navigating similar paths of growth and change.
In a world where brand authenticity is paramount, Beth Ament's story is a compelling narrative of how a brand can not only survive an acquisition but thrive through it, maintaining a genuine connection with its audience and empowering its team to be brand ambassadors in the truest sense.
Brooke Lewis
CPSM, Associate Director of Marketing, Stratus Team, LLC
Brooke Lewis is a seasoned marketing professional with over a decade of experience in the A/E industry. As the Associate Director of Marketing at Stratus Team, LLC, her expertise in marketing strategy and business development contributes to the platform's strategic growth initiatives. Stratus comprises a network of multi-disciplinary engineering, architecture, and consulting firms, providing a united platform for innovative design services and solutions.
Throughout her career, Lewis has demonstrated a deep understanding of market dynamics and client needs. She guides diverse initiatives for business development efforts and deliversin-depth marketing strategies to assist in fostering client relationships and fuel regional market expansion for Stratus inboth the private and public sectors. Lewis played a pivotal role in establishing Stratus' brand identity and shaping the marketing department from its inception, laying a robust foundation for the company's growth.
A native of Atlanta, Ga., Lewis holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Entrepreneurial Management from the University of South Carolina and is a Certified Professional Services Marketer. She has served as a marketing volunteer for the annual Foreverfamily 5K4Kids race in Atlanta and mentorsundergraduates at her alma mater. Lewis is an avid tennis player. In her downtime, she enjoys hiking the North Georgia mountains, adding stamps to her passport, and spending time with her dog, Nala.
Katie Harris
Smartegies Alliance Partner
Katie is a creative, strategic, and driven leader with a passion for making things better today than they were yesterday. She has worked exclusively in the architecture/engineering industry for more than 15 years, where she has provided leadership in areas such as marketing, branding, internal communications, mergers and acquisitions, recruitment and retention, business development, and strategic business planning.
As a Smartegies Alliance Partner, Katie utilizes her full range of marketing skills to manage and execute large projects for AEC clients across the United States.
Blueprint for Tomorrow: Winning Georgia's Largest State Project
Speakers: Mike Macon, Brad Ewing
Date: February 29th
Time: 12:30PM – 1:00PM
In this captivating fireside chat, hear from the leaders who recently secured the largest state project ever awarded in Georgia. Each will share their unique journey—from the initial formation of their winning strategy and team to the moment they knew they had it in the bag. This session will delve into the critical aspects of brand positioning, crafting a differentiated pitch, and the art of building influential relationships.
What You Can Expect to Learn:
- How to strategically position your brand to stand out in competitive selection processes.
- The importance of crafting a differentiated pitch that resonates with decision-makers.
- Techniques for building and leveraging relationships with key influencers in the procurement process.
- Real-world insights into navigating the complexities of large-scale state projects.
Mike Macon
Senior Vice President, Balfour Beatty
Mike Macon brings over 25 years of construction industry experience to the table, currently serving as the Senior Vice President and Business Unit Leader for Balfour Beatty's Georgia business. He's not just a seasoned executive; he's a strategic thinker who has led award-winning projects like Buckhead Atlanta, a $1.5 billion luxury retail and mixed-use community. As part of Balfour Beatty's Southeast Division’s executive leadership team, Mike excels in client relationship building, capturing new prospects, and developing winning strategies. His diverse experience across various markets, from corporate office spaces to multifamily residential projects, has been integral to achieving Balfour Beatty’s growth goals.
We've invited Mike to share his insights at SmartWIN24 for a very specific reason. He recently led his team to secure the largest project ever undertaken by the State of Georgia—a $1B+ Correctional Facility. His session will offer a deep dive into what it takes to position your firm strategically to win such monumental public-sector and private-sector projects under a unified and integrated brand and business development strategy. From initial identification to the final pitch, Mike will share the intricacies of securing mega-projects.
Brad Ewing
AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, Associate Principal | Regional Practice Leader, Civic, Community, Justice & Education at NELSON Worldwide
Brad Ewing is a distinguished architect and associate principal at NELSON Worldwide, where he brings over 24 years of experience in leading teams and managing complex projects across various sectors. As the regional practice leader for civic, community, justice, and education, Brad is known for his innovative and sustainable design solutions that resonate with stakeholders' needs and expectations.
In his role, Brad not only oversees the production of design and construction drawings but also steers the strategic growth and financial success of his practice across the Southeast region. His expertise extends to advising clients on best practices and lessons learned from his extensive work in institutional, aerospace, aviation, federal, county, and state projects, both in secure and non-secure environments.
Brad's passion for creating quality designs that enhance public spaces and user experiences is evident in his collaborative approach with his team and partners. His commitment to excellence is a driving force behind his successful leadership in the AEC industry.
At SmartWIN24, we invited Brad to share his insights and strategies that led to the winning outcome for the State of Georgia's largest project ever. His experience in leading such a monumental project, coupled with his expertise in sustainable and impactful design, makes him an invaluable contributor to our conference. Attendees will gain a rare glimpse into the strategic thinking and leadership that are essential in securing and executing major AEC projects.
The Venue
The Commerce Club Atlanta
The Commerce Club Atlanta is a premier private business and social club located at one of the most prestigious, well-known addresses in downtown Atlanta – 191 Peachtree St. in the incredible One Ninety-One Peachtree Tower.
The hotel block for SmartWIN24 is now full. If you still need accommodations, we recommend the following hotels.