Speakers

Mark Begich

Former U.S. Senator and Anchorage Mayor

A businessman since age 14 and a public servant with decades of experience, Mark Begich has built an impressive record of accomplishments. Mark and his business partner, Sheldon Fisher share a goal of revitalizing downtown Anchorage through property management consulting and development projects.

In addition to owning and operating consulting, retail, real estate and hospitality businesses in Alaska and the Lower 48, Mark has an accomplished record of public service.  Before serving Alaska in the U.S. Senate from 2009-2014, Mark was the Mayor of Anchorage for six years and served on the Anchorage Assembly for ten years.

In both business and public service, Mark has earned the reputation of a hard-working, pragmatic problem-solver who was willing to work with anyone to get things done. 

Mark is married to Anchorage businesswoman Deborah Bonito, president and owner of Sourdough Mercantile Inc. and several other local businesses. 

Keynote Session: Workforce Development and the Built Environment: Perspectives from Public Service and Building Ownership 

Sylvia Bowman

Founder, CertiFloor

Sylvia Bowman is an independent flooring commissioning authority and founder of CertiFloor. With more than 25 years of commercial flooring contracting experience, she brings a rare combination of technical and field expertise to the evaluation of flooring performance and failure risk. She is committed to advancing best practices that eliminate preventable flooring failures and protect owner investment.

A chemical engineer, Class “A” commercial builder, and Certified Facility Manager, Sylvia is uniquely positioned to understand both the chemistry behind flooring materials and the realities of commercial construction and facility operations. She evaluates how moisture conditions, substrate preparation, adhesive chemistry, environmental controls, and installation sequencing interact—and how those variables ultimately determine performance, durability, and capital risk.

She serves as a board member of the CSI Richmond Chapter and the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). She is also a member of ASTM International Committee F06 on Resilient Floor Coverings.

When not working to prevent floor failures one project at a time, Sylvia enjoys spending time with her family, volunteering, camping, and sewing. 

Session: The Hidden Causes of Flooring Failures: Specification Strategies for Verified Compliance 

T.J. Brennan, MBA, AIA, CSI, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C

Sr. Product Manager, USG Construction Software & Services

T.J. Brennan is the Sr. Product Manager for USG Construction Software & Services within the Marketing Department, having over 20 years of experience as a licensed architect and industry leader. T.J. focuses on the development and maintenance of software enablement tools for the architecture, design, and construction community, including USG Ceiling Technix, USG Assembly Builder, and USG Virtual Acoustics Experience. Driven by a passion for simplifying complex tasks and delivering accurate information to clients, T.J. is dedicated to streamlining the specification process and supporting the built-environment with innovative, customer-centric solutions.

Session: Success in Specifications: Harnessing Teamwork for Clarity, Accuracy, and Efficiency 

Faith A. Brown, CSI, CDT

Specifications Writer

Faith has spent more than 15 years writing architectural specifications ranging in size from small fast-burn tenant improvements to technically complex multi-building compounds. She has been responsible for preparing project specifications and determining innovative ways to meet client needs through construction specification research and delivery. Her detailed approach enables her to assist the project team in resolving problems related to the use and installation of building materials and products as well as evaluating their suitability for the intended application, proposing alternative products when appropriate.

Project work has evolved in this timeframe starting with Federal compounds, K-12 and higher education projects and public service buildings while engaged with an architecture firm. The formation of Integrated Spec Solutions provided opportunity for project expansion as well, building on her K-12 experience, Faith broke into the elder care facilities and multi-use/mixed-use market. Specifications for these projects include several different sustainable design approaches and the delivery methods for these projects included the traditional Design, Bid, Build as well as Design Build and GC/CM. With her drafting background, Faith enjoys reviewing the drawings to verify that the specifications are well coordinated. This coordination effort is no doubt due to her active membership in CSI, which focuses on communication among all members in the construction industry. Faith has diligently studied proper CSI principles and formats and applies them to her projects.

As an active participant in the CSI Spokane Chapter, she has taught CDT Classes, Specification Organization and communication practices for the entire A/E/C Spokane Community. Through her CSI roles, Faith has developed her leadership and management skills, a great addition to her evolving specifications success. She enjoys working as part of the design team and contributing to the overall success of the project.

Session: Empowering the Generations and Why It Matters!

Ivette Ramirez Bruns, CSI, CCS

Principal and Director of Specifications, Ratio Architects, Inc

Ivette Ramirez Bruns, CSI, CCS has been an active member of the CSI Indianapolis Chapter since 1995. She has held several positions with the Indianapolis Chapter including Board Member, Secretary, Education Committee Chair, and Membership Chair and President. She has also been involved with the CSI Great Lakes Region including Great Lakes Region President, Education Committee Chair, Awards Committee Chair and Presenter at several GLR Conferences.

Ivette has been on the committee to organize several GLR Conferences and was on the Host Committee for CONSTRUCT in Indianapolis in 2009. She has been on the CSI National Board as Director from the Great Lakes Region and is currently Board Secretary.

Her primary focus in her career is to educate those that work with her and inspire those coming into the industry to continue learning more about the technical information and specifications behind the design.

Session: CDT^® Fundamentals

Nora Burns

Founder and Chief Curiosity Officer, The Leadership Experts

As the Founder and Chief Curiosity Officer of The Leadership Experts, Nora Burns has redefined what it means to understand workplace culture from the inside out.

A former Fortune 200 leader, Nora has led teams through complex challenges, transforming companies from the boardroom to the front lines. But Nora’s true game-changer? The Undercover Project™. She went incognito, applying for over 350 jobs and working frontline roles at Fortune 500 companies as The Undercover Employee™.

Nora didn’t rely on titles or boardroom credentials; she got down in the trenches to experience firsthand what employees really think about hiring, culture, and retention. She’s heard the raw, unfiltered truth that frontline workers won’t tell their managers.

Now, Nora is on a mission to help organizations connect the dots…bridging the gap between leadership strategies and real-world employee experiences. If you want to attract top talent, build a thriving workplace culture, and retain the right people, Nora’s your secret weapon.

Session: The Cost of Culture: Conversations That Prevent Conflict 

Tina Cannedy, CDT

Director of Business Development - Architecture, Atlas Roofing Corporation

Tina Cannedy is a technical and architectural executive with over 30 years of experience in building envelope systems, specializing in EIFS, continuous insulation, stucco, gypsum, cement board, and air/water barriers. She holds a B.S. in Materials Science Engineering and is a CSI CDT, AWCI EIFS Inspector, and long-standing Vice Chair of ASTM E06.58. Tina has led system testing and IBC, IECC code compliance programs involving NFPA 285, ASTM, UL, ICC-ES, and Miami-Dade approvals. Her expertise includes system design, dew point analysis, architectural detailing, specification development, and translating complex building codes into constructible, compliant wall assemblies.

Session: Elevating Thermal Efficiency, Durability, and Sustainability through Optimized Continuous Insulation 

Nathalia Cardona

Head of Product, UpCodes

As Head of Product at UpCodes, Nathalia Cardona works closely with AEC professionals to help shape tools that improve the building compliance process.

Before transitioning into AEC technology, Nathalia was a physicist studying dark matter, a background that shaped her focus on data integrity and analytical precision. At UpCodes, she applies that mindset to work with architects, engineers, code consultants, and other industry professionals to understand their most pressing pain points and turn those insights into products that make the building process more efficient, collaborative, and reliable.

Session: The 5th C: Coordination in the Age of AI

Scott Conwell, FCSI, CDT, FAIA, ALA, LEED AP

Director of Industry Development,International Masonry Institute (IMI)

Scott Conwell is a licensed architect, Director of Industry Development with International Masonry Institute (IMI), and tireless advocate for best-practice design and qualified labor in the masonry and tile space.  

In his 30-year tenure at IMI, Conwell has presented over 1,400 seminars on tile, natural stone, terrazzo, and masonry to designers and installers all over the world. His presentation history includes eight CSI National Conferences (2003-2022), thirty-seven CSI bi-regional conferences, regional conferences, and chapter meetings (1996-2024), International conferences in Spain and Italy, as well as intimate in-office accredited educational presentations.

In recognition of his educational contributions to the national design community and his ongoing participation in the development of national tile standards, Conwell has been conferred fellow status by the Construction Specifications Institute (FCSI) and the American Institute of Architects (FAIA). He is also recipient of the Carl V. Cesery Award for Service to the Ceramic Tile Industry by the Tile Contractors’ Association of America (TCAA).

Conwell is a frequent contributor to construction and masonry industry journals, magazines, and blogs including Construction Specifier, Licensed Architect, Masonry Magazine, Tile Magazine, Stone World Magazine, Tile Talk Monthly, and Why Tile. A former board member and committee chair of CSI Chicago, Conwell remains active in CSI and serves on many local and national committees. He is a voting delegate to the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) Handbook Committee and serves on TCNA’s Nominating Committee. He serves on the ANSI and ISO Committees for tile standards, on the National Tile Contractors’ Association (NTCA) Technical Committee, and on the Natural Stone Institute (NSI) Education Committee. He is a founding member and advisor to the industry-wide committee that developed the internationally recognized Advanced Certifications for Tile Installers (ACT). And he is currently on the Board of Directors of the Association of Licensed Architects (ALA).

With over 30,000 followers on LinkedIn and over a million post engagements per year and new posts every week, Conwell is an influencer among design professionals in the realm of social media. 

Session: Materiality of Masonry 

Stacy M. Craig, CSI, CDT

Product Manager, USG Corporation Ceilings

Stacy Craig is a Product Manager in USG Corporation’s Ceilings division. With extensive expertise in acoustic design and ceiling solutions, Stacy oversees and supports the Ceilings Sales Team at USG. Stacy partners closely with her team to support architects, specification writers, and contractors to deliver high-performance products and technical support for commercial and institutional projects. Stacy’s collaborative approach and commitment to continuous innovation make her a trusted resource for professionals seeking clarity, performance, and sustainability in ceiling specifications.

Session: Success in Specifications: Harnessing Teamwork for Clarity, Accuracy, and Efficiency

Manoj Dalaya, FAIA, CSI, CCS, CCCA

Principal and Co-President, KGD Architecture

Manoj Dalaya is a principal and co-president of KGD Architecture with more than 38 years of experience delivering complex architectural and urban design projects. A member of the Construction Specifications Institute for more than two decades, he brings a practitioner’s lens to technical specifications, delegated design, and construction administration, aligning performance requirements with constructability, risk management, and project delivery outcomes.

He has served CSI as a post-exam item reviewer for both the CCS^® and CCCA^® credentialing programs and contributes nationally through AIA leadership, including service on the AIA Contract Documents Committee (2022–2032), and is the Task Group Chair for AIA Document B101. Manoj also served as President of AIA Northern Virginia (2021) and has held additional chapter leadership roles, and he has lectured at George Mason University’s Center for Real Entrepreneurship since 2013.

His work emphasizes high-performance, secure, and resilient environments, integrating enclosure and life-safety requirements, infrastructure, and technology to support durable, well-coordinated buildings that serve their occupants and mission.

Sessions:

Delegated Design: Where Liability Hides

A "Sneak Peek" at the 2027 Editions of AIA Documents A201 and B101

Laverne Dalgleish

Principal, Building Professional Quality Institute

Laverne wears many hats. He is the Principal for the Building Professional Quality Institute. which provides site quality assurance programs for organizations with a common interest in professionalism in the installation of building components.

He is also the Executive Director for the Air Barrier Association of America, the National Air Barrier Association and the Rainscreen Association in North America. Reporting to the Board of Directors for each of the Associations, responsible for the administration of the head office for these associations and for the day-to-day operations. Responsible for the Financial Statement (P & L) for each of the Associations. Responsible for the communications and liaisons with other associations, governmental officials, industry members, office personnel and other parties. Responsible for assisting the individual Board of Directors in planning, forecasting and developing long term goals and objectives for their association.

Laverne is a certified Energy Efficient Retrofit/Renovation for Housing Instructor who has completed the qualifications for such. Laverne has completed the studies and is certified as a Level III Building Analyst and certified Building Analyst Instructor. Laverne has completed all training and is certified as a Canadian Urethane Foam Contractors Association Quality Assurance Licensed Inspector and as a National Air Barrier Association Quality Assurance Licensed Inspector. 

Session: You Specified a Water-Resistive Barrier and You Got an Air Barrier - What Gives?

AK Dash

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

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: Achieving Specifications Symphony on Large Projects via Collaborative Intelligence 

Laura Derrick, CSI

Architect, Project Manager and Instructor, Missouri State University

Laura Derrick 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 then 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.

Laura serves as the Director from North Central Region for the CSI Board of Directors.

Session: From Concept Through Closeout – And Beyond, The Life Cycle of a Project Manual 

Paul Doherty, AIA, CSI, CDT, IFMA Fellow, DFC Senior Fellow

Chairman and CEO, TDG

Paul Doherty is Chairman and CEO of TDG (the digit group), a globally renowned and award-winning architect who is one of the world’s most sought after thought leaders, strategists and integrators of process, technology, and business.

As seen on The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg TV, acknowledged by CNBC as one of America's Business Titans and reported by Forbes as “Changing the World”, Paul is a Senior Fellow of the Design Futures Council and a Fellow of the International Facility Management Association (IFMA).

Paul's current work is as Chairman of TDG Global Ventures, a Smart City real estate development company that provides financing, design-build and innovative technology solutions around the world. Concurrently, Paul is also the co-founder and producer of the critically acclaimed AEC Hackathon that launched at Facebook Headquarters. His past successful ventures include Revit Technologies (Sold to Autodesk 2002), Buzzsaw (Autodesk 2001) and TRIRIGA (IBM 2011). His 2 latest books are “Smart Cities: Reimagining the Urban Experience” published by Quality Press, which has been listed by BuiltWorlds and the Smart Cities World Congress Recommended Reading List and “Unlocking the Metaverse: A Strategic Guide for the Future of the Built Environment”, published by John Wiley & Sons, which rated #1 New Release and an Editor’s Pick on Amazon.com.

Paul sits on the Advisory Board of John Wiley & Son’s Architectural Graphic Standards. Paul also sits on the Board of Directors of the United Nations International Mayors Communication Center, dedicated to the proper implementation of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals in urban environments. 

Session: From Static Documents to Living Intelligence: How AI Will Transform Construction Specifications 

Shelby Fisher

Specifications Manager, Kirksey Architecture

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

Shelby is an active member of the CSI Houston Chapter Board where she previously served as President. 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: Elevate Everyday to Gourmet: Crafting High-Performance Architectural Specifications 

Kevin A. Fitzgerald, RA, CDT, MRED, PMP

Senior Vice President, Portfolio Manager and Credit Underwriter, Neighborhood Lending Partners, Inc

Kevin A. Fitzgerald is a licensed architect with more than twenty-five years of experience in community development. After graduating from Syracuse University with a Bachelor of Architecture, Cum Laude, Kevin practiced architecture for ten years, including as an Associate at Robert A.M. Stern Architects.

For five years he was the Director, Center for Emerging Professionals at the American Institute of Architects in Washington, DC. Kevin graduated from The University of Maryland College Park with a Master of Real Estate Development, where he also served in the University Senate.

For eight years Kevin worked for nationally known aƯordable housing syndicators, as a Senior Development Risk Manager, notably at Enterprise Community Investment. There he managed underwriting and construction risk for hundreds of properties across the United States totaling more than $1.5B in construction costs.

Kevin is currently Senior Vice President, Portfolio Manager and Credit Underwriter at Neighborhood Lending Partners, Inc, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, certified CDFI, and member of the FHLB of Atlanta. NLP is a lending consortium of banking institutions that facilitate private investments for community revitalization and neighborhood preservation.

Session: Construction Risk and Affordable Multifamily: Essentials and Trends 

Ronald L. Geren, FCSI, Distinguished Member, AIA, CCS, CCCA, CDT, CSC

Owner, RLGA Technical Services

Ronald L. Geren is the owner of RLGA Technical Services, a specifications and building code consulting firm in Scottsdale, Arizona. He has over 35 years of experience in the design and construction industry, including projects covering many building types such as residence halls, classroom and office buildings, libraries, multifamily residential, commercial office and retail, religious, theaters, and military. Ron holds a Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Arizona. Ron is an adjunct professor at The School of Architecture, Founded by Frank Lloyd Wright, where he teaches building codes.

Ron is the author of Applying the Building Code: Step-by-Step Guidance for Design and Building Professionals and has coauthored CSI’s Project Delivery Practice Guide and Construction Specifications Practice Guide. Ron is a Certified Construction Specifier, a Certified Construction Contract Administrator, a Construction Documents Technologist, a Certified Building Plans Examiner, and a Certified Accessibility Inspector/Plans Examiner. He is a past chair of the AIA MasterSpec Architectural Review Committee, has served on the AIA Codes and Standards Committee, and is currently a member of the AIA Documents Committee and is the Task Group Chair for AIA Document A201. Ron is also the vice chair of the ICC Performance Code Committee and president-elect of the Specifications Consultants in Independent Practice (SCIP). Ron is a former chair of the CSI Board of Directors and the CSI Foundation Board of Trustees. For CSI, Ron currently serves as chair of the CSI Standards Steering Committee and as a subject matter expert. 

Session: A "Sneak Peek" at the 2027 Editions of AIA Documents A201 and B101 

Trent Gillespie

CEO, Stellis AI

Trent Gillespie left Amazon with a conviction that has shaped everything since: AI should create jobs, not just eliminate them. Now one of the country's leading voices on AI in business, he helps leaders cut through the noise and build organizations that actually win in the AI era — with practical frameworks, real-world experience, and a clear-eyed view of where this technology is heading.

Trent brings more than 25 years of technology and business transformation experience to the stage, including leadership roles up to the CIO level before joining Amazon. After earning his MBA from Seattle University, he spent nearly a decade at Amazon driving global expansion, Last Mile innovation, and Alexa AI privacy initiatives — gaining firsthand experience applying AI at massive scale across some of the most complex operational environments in the world.

Today, as CEO of Stellis AI, he works hands-on with executives across industries to put AI to work where it matters most — the leadership decisions, operational systems, and strategic choices that drive performance and growth. This is what he calls Operational AI™: not AI as an experiment, but AI as a core business capability. His Future Customer™ and AI SPRINT™ frameworks give leaders practical systems for understanding where their markets are heading and how to compete and win. For organizations ready to go deeper, the AI Flywheel™ provides an advanced model for turning AI momentum into sustained competitive advantage.

He also partners with associations and industry groups to help entire sectors navigate the AI transition — emerging stronger, with better companies and more meaningful careers.

Session: AI as a Leadership Imperative 

Joshua Guerra, RA, CSI, CDT, LEED AP

Architectural Specification Writer

Joshua Guerra is an Architectural Specification Writer and Technical Advocate with over 20 years of experience delivering thoughtful, comprehensive, and well-coordinated projects across diverse sectors, including workplace environments, high-tech data centers and laboratories, multi-family housing, hospitality, retail, and mixed-use developments. He expertly leads project teams through the full architectural process—from programming and master planning to detailed construction contract administration—while emphasizing functionality, relevance, and simplicity in his design philosophy.

A certified Construction Documents Technologist (CDT^®) and active member of CSI, Josh conducts rigorous quality control reviews and authors architectural specifications for a wide range of projects. He created the Otak Architecture Graphic Standards Manual and is currently revising the SERA Architecture Graphic Standards Manual, underscoring his deep expertise in establishing firm-wide standards that enhance clarity, consistency, and quality in construction documentation.

Originally from Dallas, Texas, Josh earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Notre Dame in 2000 (majoring in Design with studies in Industrial Design and Graphic Design), followed by professional graphic design work. He then completed a Master of Architecture at Texas A&M University in 2005, with international experiences including a semester at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya in Barcelona, Spain; historic preservation survey work at Pointe du Hoc in Normandy, France; and the Romieniec Fellowship supporting architectural research in Australia.

Passionate about collaboration and mentoring, Josh thrives in team environments, fostering open, honest, and professional communication while guiding junior staff through building codes, detailing, and professional practice. Outside architecture, he finds balance through soccer (as player, coach, referee, and fan), woodworking, philosophy, classic literature, and family time—pursuits that continually fuel his creative and strategic perspective. 

Session: Graphic Standards; A Framework for Exceptional Construction Documents

Lynsey Hankins, FCSI

Color and Design Manager, Pittsburgh Paints Company

Lynsey has worked in the construction industry since 2009, with the majority of time spent in the commercial sector. Her passion for color and design comes from several years in the flooring and high-performance coatings divisions.

Lynsey has partnered with owners, architects and designers to assist in providing the best quality product to fit the look and feel the space and owner requires. After 13 years of dedicated service and notable contributions, she was inducted into the 2023 Class for the CSI College of Fellows.

Session: From Concept Through Closeout – And Beyond, The Life Cycle of a Project Manual 

Sherry Harbaugh,  FCSI, CCS, RA

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.

Session: The 5th C: Coordination in the Age of AI 

Melody Jackson, CSI, CDT

Senior Specifier, Populous

Melody Jackson is a Senior Specification Writer for Populous. She is a highly experienced professional with over seven years’ experience as a full-time spec writer and 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 2025 CSI National Conference, the 2024 CSI National Conference, the 2024 Lone Star Sustainability Forum, the 2023 SCIP conference, and the 2023 Mexico Roofing Day in Mexico City. She has also taught hundreds of AIA continuing education classes to architecture firms related to roofing, waterproofing, hurricane wind uplift, and severe weather. Melody is immediate Past-President of the CSI Houston chapter and has served in several officer positions over the years.

Session: Elevate Everyday to Gourmet: Crafting High-Performance Architectural Specifications

Matt Johnson

Director of Manufacturer Solutions, RIB Software

Matt Johnson is the Director of Manufacturer Solutions at RIB Software, bringing with him over 35 years of experience in product management, with a focus on products built-in support construction specifications. He previously held the role of CTO and board member at MasterSpec and set up their original manufacturer program and technology stack. He is also the former American delegate for the International Construction Information Society, which provided him with the opportunity to collaborate with international efforts focused on improving coordination between BIM and specifications.

Session: The Changing Economics of Specifications: AI, Data Silos, and Sustainability

Shaun Katz

Product Line Manager, Detec Systems

With over 25 years of experience in customer service and business administration, Shaun Katz has spent the past decade specializing in Electronic Leak Detection (ELD) for roofing and waterproofing systems. He is an active member of CSI, ASTM, and IIBEC, and has worked extensively with property managers, building owners, contractors, architects, engineers, consultants, manufacturers, and testing agencies on both forensic leak investigations and quality assurance testing for new construction projects.

Shaun has delivered hundreds of educational presentations and live demonstrations on ELD technologies across North America. In recognition of his expertise and contribution to industry education, he received the Presenter of the Year Award from the Chicago Chapter of IIBEC in 2020.

His professional goal is to promote a clear, practical understanding of Electronic Leak Detection and to help all stakeholders achieve accurate, reliable, and verifiable results in their roofing and waterproofing projects

Session: Electronic Leak Detection: Lessons Learned from ELD Testing and Continuous Monitoring for Roofing 

Lindsey Kuster, PE

Engineered Wood Specialist at APA – The Engineered Wood Association

Lindsey Kuster is an engineered wood specialist based in San Diego, serving the southwest region, including California, Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico. Lindsey promotes the correct use of engineered wood products to designers, builders, and code officials and brings a passion for sustainable design to her role. Lindsey has over 7 years of structural engineering experience working on a variety of new and existing buildings including healthcare, education, and civic projects. She received her master’s degree in structural engineering from UC San Diego and her bachelor’s degree in architectural engineering from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and is a registered Professional Engineer in the state of California.

Session: How to Specify Engineered Wood 

Adrienne Lewis, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP

Principal and Architect, Dekker

Adrienne Lewis is a Principal and Architect at Dekker with more than 30 years of experience working on civic, public safety, education, and workplace projects across the Southwest. She co-leads the Phoenix Dekker office and serves as the Public Safety Practice Leader, known for her collaborative approach and practical, client-focused design solutions. Adrienne is a NASRO-Certified CPTED Practitioner and a LEED Accredited Professional, with a focus on creating safe, sustainable, and well-functioning facilities. She enjoys mentoring staff and supporting a strong studio culture. Outside of work, Adrienne is a mother of two adult children, a grandmother of two, and an avid pet lover.

Session: Specifying for the Worst Day: Architecture and Engineering for Emergency Operations

Jarrod Mann, P.E., FCSI, CCCA®, CDT®, LEED AP® BD+C

Vice President, Head of MEP Engineering, BG Consultants, Inc.

Jarrod Mann is an architectural engineer with over 25 years’ experience designing and specifying mechanical, electrical, and plumbing building systems for municipal, educational, institutional, commercial, and industrial facilities. He is a graduate of both Kansas State University and the University of Kansas. A fifth-generation Kansan, he currently lives and works in Lawrence, KS, where he is an owner and vice president of a regional engineering and architecture consulting firm, and he is licensed to practice engineering in Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Colorado, and Washington. His engineering specialties include the design of power distribution, lighting, controls, and life safety systems.

For CSI, Jarrod has been a member of the Mid-Kansas and Flint Hills Chapters, and is currently a member of the Kansas Chapter, all within the North Central Region. He has served in various leadership roles at both levels including as both Chapter and Region President and currently serves as the Secretary of the Kansas Chapter. At the Institute level, Jarrod has served as a Director at Large and Chair-Elect, and is currently serving as the Chair of the CSI Board of Directors.

Session: From Concept Through Closeout – And Beyond, The Life Cycle of a Project Manual 

Linda McCandless

National Specification Manager, Malarkey Roofing Products

Linda McCandless is the National Specification Manager for Malarkey Roofing Products out of Portland, OR. She has 30 years of building products experience, with most of her efforts spent on the building envelope side with the focus on exterior wall waterproofing and rainscreen system development. She has moved to the top of the building to promote steep slope roofing systems.

Linda has presented at multiple AIA state conferences, local meetings and architectural firms. She has been an active member of the CSI Northwest Region and a speaker at their conference in 2025. She has also participated in multiple IIBEC conferences as a speaker.

Fun fact, Linda is a five time Ironman athlete, with one of them being the World Championship in Kona, HI.

Session: Sustainable Roofing Solutions: Unlocking the Power of Modern Asphalt Shingles

Tyson McElvain, AIA, LEED AP, CCCA

Principal; Director of Project Delivery, Snow Kreilich Architects

JWith a background that ranges from concept to construction, Tyson brings a passion in merging design and construction to deliver projects both well conceived and well detailed. Since 2005, he has helped to advance the studio’s sustainable design initiatives, project management protocols, and construction administration excellence across all projects. As Director of Project Delivery, he is the firm’s leading voice for proper documentation, technical and construction excellence, project specification coordination, and construction administration assistance to our clients. He also leads the studio’s QA/QCprocess to ensure integration across all disciplines. From research to redlines, Tyson organizes information to get projects built. His Certification as a Construction Contract Administrator speaks to his knowledge and commitment to shepherding projects from paper, or screen, to realization. Relationships with our consultant teams, often numbering in the half-dozen on a typical project, is one key to this success. Building consensus and keeping a diverse team on track is a critical part of delivering design projects—an aspect of our work in which he has excelled and is a hallmark of our service to our clients and communities. Tyson has contributed to some of our most significant work to date, including LEED Gold certified projects U.S. Warroad Land Port of Entry and U.S. Van Buren Land Port of Entry, both recipients of several awards. He has a depth of experience with historic preservation and adaptive reuse projects, including work at the Minneapolis Federal Office Building, Hollywood Theater, Cowles Conservatory at the Walker Sculpture Garden, and Ron DeLugo Federal Courthouse in St. Thomas, USVI.

Session: Tag, You're It! How the Spec Writer and Constructor Navigate Architectural Drawings 

John Montaño, P.E.

Principal and Electrical Engineer for Bridgers & Paxton

John Montano is a Principal and Electrical Engineer for Bridgers & Paxton with over 30 years of experience. He has completed projects for education, performing arts, medical and healthcare facilities, hospitality, office buildings, retail, municipal/governmental agencies, and military and industrial facilities. His expertise includes electrical studies, pre-design investigation, fee proposals, estimates of probable electrical construction costs, presentation of progress drawings to clients, lighting design and calculations, power systems design and load calculations, fire alarm system design, lighting protection, telecommunications, specification editing, construction administration, and field observations.

Session: Specifying for the Worst Day: Architecture and Engineering for Emergency Operations

Frank Mruk, CSI, FAIA, RIBA, LEED AP

Sr. Project Manager, JLL

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 President, CSI Northeast Region. 

Session: Material Agency Reconsidered: From Specifications to Stewardship

Mark Ogg, CSI, CCCA, CDT, MCM, PMP

Sr. Project Manager, JLL

Mark Ogg brings over 31 years of construction industry experience spanning project management, technical specifications, and construction administration. Currently serving as CSI Great Lakes Region Past President and Director with the CSINext Chapter, Mark has demonstrated extensive leadership across chapter and regional levels since joining CSI in 2013.

 A frequent presenter at CSI National Conferences, Regional Conferences, and local chapter meetings, he shares his expertise in construction documentation, certification preparation, and industry best practices. Mark serves on CSI's Education & Knowledge Committee and Editorial Advisory Committee for Construction Specifier Magazine, contributing to the advancement of construction specification knowledge.

He holds a Master of Construction Management from Western Carolina University, a Bachelors in Construction Management from the University of Cincinnati, and maintains CCCA^® and CDT^® certifications. As Senior Project Manager at JLL, Mark applies construction documentation expertise to CAPEX programs exceeding $130M annually, ensuring specification compliance and technical coordination for Fortune 500 clients. 

Session: CDT^® Fundamentals 

Lynn Ostenson, CSI, CCS

Owner, lo.specs, LLC

Lynn is a Certified Construction Specifier (CCS), past president of the CSI New Orleans Chapter, a LEED Accredited Professional and a former Adjunct Instructor, University of MN College of Design. Currently she provides technical assistance with selection of products and development of architectural specifications; providing insight pertaining to procurement requirements; assembling full project manuals and coordinating consultant specifications.

Session: Tag, You're It! How the Spec Writer and Constructor Navigate Architectural Drawings

Nishanth Patil

Group Product Manager, RIB Software North America

Nish Patil 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: Achieving Specifications Symphony on Large Projects via Collaborative Intelligence 

Doyle Phillips, EdD, FCSI, CCCA, CDT, CPC, FCPE, Ed.D.

Associate Professor, The University of Oklahoma

In 1998 I learned the value of being a CSI member based on their educational and certification programs. It was my promotion of CSI certification programs and leading preparatory classes that allowed me to meet a mentor who encouraged me to finish my college degree work and find my passion and heart as an educator. After completing my Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, I was urged to complete my graduate degree work in education to combine that knowledge with my field experience in construction.

My membership in CSI connected me with a vast network of peers when attending local, regional, and national events, and provided me with a network of professionals who have all had an impact on my life in a way that I will never forget and who I how a debt of gratitude. The time invested in CSI and in professional development is outweighed immensely by the benefits I have received as a CSI member and leader. A recent highlight was I was honored by being named a Fellow in the Institute in October of 2024.

I am passionate about mentoring and sharing my knowledge to help emerging professionals in the construction industry attain their goals and reach their fullest potential in their careers. As an Associate Professor in Construction Sciences, I can work and live out my passion daily. I bring over 45 years of field experience into the classroom to give students real-life examples to enhance their learning.

Session: From Concept Through Closeout – And Beyond, The Life Cycle of a Project Manual 

Dave Robson

Group Vice President of Business Development, Walbridge

With a career spanning over two decades at Walbridge, David Robson has established himself as a visionary executive leader and a driving force behind the company’s expansion into high-growth, technical markets. Currently serving as Group Vice President of Business Development, David oversees the sales infrastructure and strategic roadmaps for this ENR Top 25 firm, which maintains a 110-year legacy and annual sales of $10 billion. His leadership is characterized by a "competitive edge" pursuit model that seamlessly synchronizes sales, marketing, engineering, and operations to dominate the bidding landscape in specialized sectors.

David’s impact is most notably felt in the Mission Critical sector; an offering Walbridge launched in 2016, and he has since grown by securing more than 6GW of data center construction contracts with global industry tech giants. Since joining Walbridge in 2001, he has demonstrated a unique ability to navigate economic volatility, diversifying the company’s portfolio during major downturns to ensure sustainable growth. His current mandate involves engineering sophisticated acquisition strategies to penetrate emerging markets such as next-gen infrastructure, defense tech, semiconductor and life science. Beyond strategy, David is the account executive to several foundational customers and acts as a primary internal advisor prior to contract execution, bridging the gap between complex customer requirements and company resources.

A graduate of St. Clair College and the Harvard Business School Executive Education Program, David balances his rigorous professional schedule with a deep commitment to the Detroit community. He actively contributes his expertise to the United Way Leadership Next Detroit, the Engineering Society of Detroit’s Young Engineers Council, and the American Diabetes Association’s Tour De Cure. When he is not on the road architecting new business opportunities, David cherishes time spent with his family.

Session: Why Speed Matters in Data Center Delivery

Kate Stewart, CSI, CDT, LEED Green Associate

Specifications & Data Analyst, Knotwood

Kate Stewart specializes in building envelope systems, sustainability, and architectural education within the building materials industry. Her background includes specification-focused education and support for the design community across integrated building envelope systems, with an emphasis on performance, resilience, durability, and long-term material considerations. Kate has developed and delivered accredited education programs on sustainable design, risk mitigation, and building performance. She currently works in specification strategy for architectural aluminum systems and finishes at Knotwood. 

Session: Beyond First Cost: When Sustainability Meets Service Life 

Nathan Taylor, CSI, CDT, IIBEC

Senior Associate, ECS Limited

Nathan Taylor, has extensive architectural design and building envelope experience with a skillset focusing on communication (both drawn and written) between the construction and design teams. A master’s degree in architecture and urban planning complements an in-depth understanding of waterproofing and building envelope products.

Skilled in coordination, communications, and team building with a focus on Construction Phase Services, Quality Control, and Forensic Investigation.

Nathan enjoys the problem-solving side of architectural projects. Nathan stays actively creative by drawing and writing novels in his free time. Nathan is active in the CSI Sacramento Chapter currently serving as Immediate Past President and in the West Region.

Session: School of Hard Knocks: The Complexities of School Remediation Projects 

Janet Williams, CSI CDT

Information Manager at ABI

Janet Williams brings a wealth of expertise and a meticulous approach to her work, backed by an Associate of Applied Science in Landscape & Irrigation Design from Spokane Community College. Her diverse professional journey spans the U.S. Military, real estate, retail management, and customer service, showcasing her adaptability and commitment to excellence. Known for her keen attention to detail, Janet consistently delivers high-quality results across every facet of her career.

She holds a Construction Documents Technologist (CDT^®) certification and has excelled in roles such as Document Coordinator and Specifications Writer at Integrated Spec Solutions in Spokane, Washington. A collaborative and forward-thinking professional, Janet is deeply engaged in her local CSI chapter, where she currently serves as President.

Session: Empowering the Generations and Why It Matters! 

Lance Williams

Architectural Sales Manager, Atlas Roofing Corporation

Lance Williams is an Architectural Sales Manager focused on how today’s enclosure choices shape tomorrow’s buildings. Drawing on more than 20 years in commercial walls and continuous insulation, he brings a long-view perspective on performance, risk, and carbon grounded in building science and real-world application realities. He’s known for framing complex envelope decisions in ways that resonate with owners, designers, and builders alike.

Session: Elevating Thermal Efficiency, Durability, and Sustainability through Optimized Continuous Insulation 

Michael Young, FCSI, CDT, CCCA, CCS, AAAE C.M

Project Manager, City and County of Denver on the Denver International Airport (DEN) Special Projects

Mike earned his degree in Construction Management from Colorado State University and has over 40 years’ experience in construction with the past 25 years in municipal government, managing projects through every stage of the Facility Life Cycle utilizing a variety of project delivery methods.  Mike has been active at local, regional, and national levels of CSI for 30 years and is currently serving on the Institute Board of Directors as Chair-Elect.  Mike has enjoyed being involved in representing CSI at the Associated Schools of Construction Region 6 and 7 annual student competition, he is a member of Colorado State University’s Department of Construction Management Professional Advisory Development Board and has taught CSI’s Construction Document Technologist (CDT^®) curriculum at the Community College of Denver.

Session: CDT^® Fundamentals 

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: Firestop Special Inspections: What to Expect and How to Prepare