Jonathan is CEO of SteelToe Consulting LLC, a firm that specializes in helping construction companies integrate and implement modern construction technology and workflows to improve and streamline their businesses. He also works as a construction startup advisor and as a software product manager for construction software. In addition to conducting research and reporting for industry groups through its MEP Innovation Lab, and helps develop hardware and software solutions for the construction space. Jonathan is the former CTO of Wm. T. Spaeder Company, where he headed up IT, virtual design & construction, and engineering. While there, he championed technology adoption, modular fabrication, BIM, and the advantages of using progressive technological approaches to project and company challenges. He has an extensive background in MEP construction and engineering, with projects ranging from commercial buildings to industrial refineries, and has over two decades of experience in the AEC industry.

Denise is the Partner and Operations Strategist at Steel Toe Consulting LLC, a firm that specializes in helping construction companies integrate and implement modern construction technology and workflows to improve and streamline their businesses. She began consulting in 2013, with a robust track record in elevating operational efficiency and business growth across various industries. Before her role at Steel Toe, she served as the Director of Operations and Business Development for a Union Electrical Contractor, where she launched an EV division, and implemented LEAN methodologies, reduced waste and ensured profitability. She holds an MBA, and BA from Cal State San Bernardino. As an advocate of continued education, she holds certifications in Professional Coaching, Earned Value Management and Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. In addition, her extensive experience in project management and analytics positions her as a leading figure in enhancing team and company performance.

Amanda Comunale is an AEC Fabrication, Operations and Technology industry leader. Ms. Comunale’s career has spanned both the private and public sectors.

Jeff Miller graduated from Purdue University in 2007 and has been working with Harrell-Fish Inc. (HFI) ever since. He began his career in project management and is now the Director of HFI’s Virtual Construction Team. Miller manages the team on BIM Coordination, 3D Modeling, Fabrication Spooling, Laser Scanning, and Robotic Layout to help with the pre-construction and rough-in phases.

Zach has extensive experience with preplanning projects. Due to the nature of his work in large out of state projects, he has developed expertise in preplanning and scheduling for large projects with limited deliveries. In some cases, only one delivery could be coordinated for a multi million dollar facility. Zach has previously held positions as Project Manager, Director of Project Controls, and is currently the Director of Commercial Sales.

Denise is the Partner and Operations Strategist at Steel Toe Consulting LLC, a firm that specializes in helping construction companies integrate and implement modern construction technology and workflows to improve and streamline their businesses. She began consulting in 2013, with a robust track record in elevating operational efficiency and business growth across various industries. Before her role at Steel Toe, she served as the Director of Operations and Business Development for a Union Electrical Contractor, where she launched an EV division, and implemented LEAN methodologies, reduced waste and ensured profitability. She holds an MBA, and BA from Cal State San Bernardino. As an advocate of continued education, she holds certifications in Professional Coaching, Earned Value Management and Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. In addition, her extensive experience in project management and analytics positions her as a leading figure in enhancing team and company performance.

Nathan C. Wood is the Executive Director of Construction Progress Coalition (CPC), a grassroots non-profit initiative to educate AEC professionals about the need for open interoperability standards between project delivery stakeholders. Nathan’s experience with Virtual Design and Construction (VDC), Lean process improvement, and Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) has led him to realize how even proven technology solutions can result in lost ROI when the needs of people and process are not addressed. Nathan balances his passion for data insights and stakeholder empathy through pragmatic adoption strategy, driving digital standards adoption in design and construction. When not fighting for open standards, Nathan also supports construction transformation as Chief Enabling Officer of SpectrumAEC, delivering speaking engagements, research publications and Design Thinking workshops.

Amanda Comunale is an AEC Fabrication, Operations and Technology industry leader. Ms. Comunale’s career has spanned both the private and public sectors.

With over 26 years in the mechanical and sheet metal industry, Stacy has held a variety of positions from Chief Estimator to Project Manager to Director of PreConstruction. She now serves as the Executive Director of the MCA of Kansas City.

Stephane McShane is a Director at Maxim Consulting Group responsible for the evaluation and implementation processes with our clients. Stephane works with construction related firms of all sizes to evaluate business practices and assist with management challenges. With a large depth of experience working in the construction industry, Stephane is keenly aware of the business and, most specifically, operational challenges that firms face. Her areas of expertise include: Leadership development, executive coaching, organizational assessments, strategic planning, project execution, business development, productivity improvement, and training programs. Mrs. McShane is an internationally recognized speaker, mentor, author, and teacher. Her ability to motivate, inspire, and create confidence among your work groups is extremely rare and very effective.

Alan is an experienced people-centric leader that builds high performing teams by developing their CI mindset to deliver amazing results. He is obsessed with helping people, teams and organizations realize their potential. Alan has over 25 years of diverse experience including construction, software and automation systems, and manufacturing. He has held senior level roles in HR, systems, quality, project management, and continuous improvement.

Carrie Struss is the Enterprise Director of Continuous Improvement at Milwaukee Tool. She has an energizing passion for CI and is obsessed with building the right culture to deliver sustainable business performance. She is a Data-Driven CI Professional with 20+ years of experience in Manufacturing, Business Operations and supporting trade partners through various Continuous Improvement, Operations Management, and Engineering roles.

Chris Weaver is Andy J. Egan’s Director of Technology and works to ensure the company is on the forefront of construction technology at a national level, even influencing new technology by working with the industry’s best software providers. He serves as the Chair on the Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA)Technology Committee, is currently the LCI Michigan CoP Leader, and is a Past President of the American Subcontractors Association of Michigan (ASAM).

Thomas Moore serves as the Estimating Support Manager at Dee Cramer, where he is committed to driving innovation and increasing efficiency in Preconstruction through the strategic integration of cutting-edge technology. He leads the Detroit Chapter of the Bluebeam User Group.

As Director of Industry Digital Transformation at VIATechnik, I focus on strategic engagements that help enterprises deploy BIM-based solutions that align their corporate strategies with digitalization. While the AECO industry is moving to digital design and construction workflows, supply chains are stuck in analog processes. Manufacturers, distributors, and fabricators have become disconnected from important decision-making opportunities. VIATechnik’s Thread Platform leverages high quality data and provides a new way to digitally transact with customers, empowering manufacturers, distributors, and fabricators with the ability to attract customers across the project lifecycle.

Jeff Peterson is a Construction Technologist with P1 Construction LLC. With a background in project management and estimating, he now uses that experience to leverage technology at his company. He has a passion for building custom integrations to make workflows and processes more efficient while capturing and analyzing data to drive better decision making.

Dave Pikey is the Vice President of Corporate Technology for The Hill Group, a $300M Chicago-based organization engaged in construction and maintenance of mechanical building systems – all with a focus on energy efficiency and sustainability. Dave joined Hill in 1998 as a design engineer and has been developing process and technology around modeling, estimating, prefabrication, automation, modular construction and business intelligence since 2004. Dave has also run marketing and communication for The Hill Group. He is often an industry guest speaker sharing his experience on leveraging technology in a collaborative environment to deliver a better product in the construction process. Dave has a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from Purdue University.

With a strong focus on improving productivity and efficiency in the workplace, Mike is a FARO Senior Solutions Architect who leverages interactive team training and purpose driven information delivery.

Prior to joining FARO in the beginning 2023, Mike spent the last 11 years as a member of the Chicago Pipefitters Local Union 597.  Early in his career with the Pipefitters, Mike was in the field as a Pipefitter, Welder, and Heavy Rigger.  From there, Mike was brought into the office where he gained experience as an Estimator and Assistant Project Manager.  Mike later accepted the position as a Full-Time Instructor and Director of Technology for the Pipefitters Apprenticeship Training Department.  Mike was also asked to join the United Associations national Technology Team, assisting other Local Unions with technology integration.

Mike has been a FARO certified trainer since 2016 and brings hands-on experience working with FARO Focus Scanners, FARO SCENE, FARO Stream/Sphere, As-Built for AutoCAD, AutoCAD Plant3D and Autodesk Navisworks.

Tim Bodor has over 20 years’ experience in the MEP industry with an emphasis on CAD and BIM. He was also served as a project lead for a plumbing and fire protection design team. Tim has spent the last 10 years working as the engineering BIM integrator/VDC manager overseeing the day-to-day BIM modeling implementation and laser scanning operations within the Engineering Department.

Joe Melody, formerly a proficient Journeyman Pipefitter, has seamlessly transitioned into a pivotal role at Helm Mechanical. Today, he leverages his extensive hands-on expertise to revolutionize the company’s approach to MEP project design, fabrication, and installation. With a rich history of executing critical welds and installing intricate systems in the field, Joe now spearheads cutting-edge advancements in the realm of Virtual Design and Construction (VDC), propelling Helm Mechanical to new heights of efficiency and innovation.

Jonathan is CEO of SteelToe Consulting LLC, a firm that specializes in helping construction companies integrate and implement modern construction technology and workflows to improve and streamline their businesses. He also works as a construction startup advisor and as a software product manager for construction software. In addition to conducting research and reporting for industry groups through its MEP Innovation Lab, and helps develop hardware and software solutions for the construction space. Jonathan is the former CTO of Wm. T. Spaeder Company, where he headed up IT, virtual design & construction, and engineering. While there, he championed technology adoption, modular fabrication, BIM, and the advantages of using progressive technological approaches to project and company challenges. He has an extensive background in MEP construction and engineering, with projects ranging from commercial buildings to industrial refineries, and has over two decades of experience in the AEC industry.

Denise is the Partner and Operations Strategist at Steel Toe Consulting LLC, a firm that specializes in helping construction companies integrate and implement modern construction technology and workflows to improve and streamline their businesses. She began consulting in 2013, with a robust track record in elevating operational efficiency and business growth across various industries. Before her role at Steel Toe, she served as the Director of Operations and Business Development for a Union Electrical Contractor, where she launched an EV division, and implemented LEAN methodologies, reduced waste and ensured profitability. She holds an MBA, and BA from Cal State San Bernardino. As an advocate of continued education, she holds certifications in Professional Coaching, Earned Value Management and Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. In addition, her extensive experience in project management and analytics positions her as a leading figure in enhancing team and company performance.

Nathan C. Wood is the Executive Director of Construction Progress Coalition (CPC), a grassroots non-profit initiative to educate AEC professionals about the need for open interoperability standards between project delivery stakeholders. Nathan’s experience with Virtual Design and Construction (VDC), Lean process improvement, and Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) has led him to realize how even proven technology solutions can result in lost ROI when the needs of people and process are not addressed. Nathan balances his passion for data insights and stakeholder empathy through pragmatic adoption strategy, driving digital standards adoption in design and construction. When not fighting for open standards, Nathan also supports construction transformation as Chief Enabling Officer of SpectrumAEC, delivering speaking engagements, research publications and Design Thinking workshops.

Steve has worked his entire career in the VDC/BIM field, starting in 2005. Throughout that time he has performed BIM at every level – as a designer, modeler, detailer, lead detailer, BIM coordinator, and BIM Manager. Recently Steve has been given a new role at ACCO Engineering Systems: Construction Technology Manager – VDC, where he is focusing on how VDC workflows and data can be utilized and beneficial in other facets of the business. Steve was previously a BIM Manager at ACCO Engineered Systems for 14 years and has been instrumental in setting up and implementing BIM/VDC workflows throughout the company.

Marcus Ebenhoeh has worked in the construction industry for over 20 years. Starting with residential construction in the early 2000’s, Marcus joined the Commercial Construction Industry as a Sheet Metal Apprentice in 2006. While in the Sheet Metal Trade, his work experience is as a fabricator, installer, mechanical detailer, project manager, and currently is the BIM Department Manager at Dee Cramer INC. Construction Technology has always been an interest to Marcus where he has lead the implementation of Robotic Total Station layout and 3d Laser Scanning at Dee Cramer. In his personal time, Marcus enjoys spending time and traveling with his wife Tammy and daughters, Sadie and Sophia, reading books, and operating the family farm.

Adam S. Davis is the Virtual Design & Construction Project Manager at Miller Electric Company and has been involved in Construction Design & VDC for 20 years. He has published “Achieving Spatial Coordination Through BIM”, National BIM Standard v2.0, helped develop manufacturer’s software for Revit, Member of the BIM Forum Working Group, and is a Member of the Innovation & Strategy Task Force for NECA. Along with his VDC background, he has been involved in design, planning, and execution from the project level to the enterprise on projects from a 500-acre site to a 2.3M Square Foot Mixed-Use Manufacturing Building. From specific animations of work tasks to full 5D sequenced models, Adam works to leverage models & information to support field installations. He has built Design & VDC capabilities at 2 prior NECA Contractors and developed VDC Process and Fabrication Facilities. Recent Initiatives include using analytics with cloud models and CRM systems to create business data & industry metrics for VDC.

Bill Knowles, a seasoned L.U. 420 Steamfitter from Philadelphia, brings 24 years of drafting experience to the table. As the VDC Manager at West Chester Mechanical, he leverages 3D modeling, point clouds, and robotic total station technology to streamline design for fabrication and ensure swift, precise installations. Bill’s dedication to innovation is further demonstrated through his active involvement in the MCAA Technology Committee, where he shapes the future of mechanical contracting practices. He’s a visionary who uses technology to redefine the industry’s landscape.

Todd Grossweiler has been with the Allison-Smith Company for the past 22 years where he is currently an Executive Vice President. Todd graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology where he received a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering degree prior to beginning his career with the Allison-Smith Company. He continues to seek out ways to innovate through processes, technology, and people. Maintaining good relationships with both his internal team and external customers is the foundation for his success. Todd believes that if you surround yourself with good people, then good things will happen.

Jason focuses on empowering and revolutionizing the electrical industry by collaborating with industry partners to adopt best practices and new technology that tackles the problems, challenges, and threats facing the electrical industry today. With over 20 years of construction experience, Jason most recently focused on research, design, and engineering of heavy-duty construction equipment and building strategic business plans to apply disruptive innovation to the construction industry. He is passionate about leveraging innovation to support the development and success of the construction workforce.

2022 innovator of the year. Jeff has 10+ years of Contech experience with a concentration on BIM, automation, and field tech.

Adam Wallenstein is President of Neptune Plumbing & Heating Co., a third-generation plumbing contractor in Cleveland, Ohio. He serves on the MSCA Board of Managers as well as the MSCA Education Committee and MCAA Technology Committee. Adam was recognized as one of Ernst & Young’s 2019 Entrepreneurs of the Year.

Zach has extensive experience with preplanning projects. Due to the nature of his work in large out of state projects, he has developed expertise in preplanning and scheduling for large projects with limited deliveries. In some cases, only one delivery could be coordinated for a multi million dollar facility. Zach has previously held positions as Project Manager, Director of Project Controls, and is currently the Director of Commercial Sales.

Andy Sellers started as a Journeyman then moved into estimating and managing large complex projects and now helping to develop long term business relationships.

Marcus Ebenhoeh has worked in the construction industry for over 20 years. Starting with residential construction in the early 2000’s, Marcus joined the Commercial Construction Industry as a Sheet Metal Apprentice in 2006. While in the Sheet Metal Trade, his work experience is as a fabricator, installer, mechanical detailer, project manager, and currently is the BIM Department Manager at Dee Cramer INC. Construction Technology has always been an interest to Marcus where he has lead the implementation of Robotic Total Station layout and 3d Laser Scanning at Dee Cramer. In his personal time, Marcus enjoys spending time and traveling with his wife Tammy and daughters, Sadie and Sophia, reading books, and operating the family farm.

Mica is a strategic and system-minded leader who strives to drive and enable continuous improvement and value-focused change. His approach is based on a foundation of organization development and change management grown from over 25 years of experience in military, retail, and construction industries. Mica’s experience includes roles in organization development, project management, strategic planning, systems administration, and military command.

Denise is the Partner and Operations Strategist at Steel Toe Consulting LLC, a firm that specializes in helping construction companies integrate and implement modern construction technology and workflows to improve and streamline their businesses. She began consulting in 2013, with a robust track record in elevating operational efficiency and business growth across various industries. Before her role at Steel Toe, she served as the Director of Operations and Business Development for a Union Electrical Contractor, where she launched an EV division, and implemented LEAN methodologies, reduced waste and ensured profitability. She holds an MBA, and BA from Cal State San Bernardino. As an advocate of continued education, she holds certifications in Professional Coaching, Earned Value Management and Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. In addition, her extensive experience in project management and analytics positions her as a leading figure in enhancing team and company performance.

Doug started as a pre-apprentice with Local 286 in Austin, Texas in 1985. He has worked for Dynamic Systems for the last 35 years, and is currently the Director of Technology and Innovation.

With over 26 years in the mechanical and sheet metal industry, Stacy has held a variety of positions from Chief Estimator to Project Manager to Director of PreConstruction. She now serves as the Executive Director of the MCA of Kansas City.

Brian is a Product Marketing Manager at Procore with a focus on Specialty Contractors. Brian grew up in the construction industry and has a passion for helping specialty contractors find tech-based solutions that help them run their businesses more efficiently and profitably.

Ryan’s passion is solving some of the most challenging problems in the mechanical contracting space, and developing creative technology solutions, looking beyond our international borders for inspiration. To accomplish this, he’s spent his career establishing high-performing teams and delivering results. He works towards leading the creation of tech solutions that range from innovative cloud-based web apps, mobile experiences, robust open APIs, and integrations with 3rd party apps at U.S. Engineering. He gets fired up by creating user experiences that enhance the quality of life for each team member so that each day at work they can bring the best version of themselves each day at work.

Lauren first joined U.S. Engineering in the preconstruction department. After gaining an understanding of the industry and project lifecycle, she began seeking opportunities to improve internal processes through automation and data analytics. Today Lauren’s role is to collaborate with team members at all levels within the organization to develop pragmatic solutions that streamline our workflows and align with our companywide strategic initiatives.

In his role as AVP and Category General Manager, Chris leads the global product team for Trimble’s MEP division. In his 6 years with Trimble, he has transformed the strategy to focus on cloud, workflows, and providing more value to MEP contractors. Prior to Trimble, Chris held a number of leadership roles at software technology companies in the areas of product management, business development, customer success, and implementation.

A third generation owner, Sean has participated in all aspects of the electrical construction company his grandfather started over 60 years ago. From fixing the company computers as a young boy, to estimating as a young adult, and on to his current position as CFO, Sean has continued to use his technological gifts to enhance company operations. He currently cohosts the Contractor Takeover of the Innovation Overload podcast and is a member of NECA’s Innovation & Strategy Task Force.

Collin Weiner, President of CalEnergy Corporation, is a distinguished leader and visionary at the forefront of cutting-edge technology and education within the realm of advanced lighting control systems. With a profound passion for innovation and a commitment to creating value, he has made remarkable strides in revolutionizing the way we approach electrical contracting, energy efficiency strategies, and industry education.

Jonathan is CEO of SteelToe Consulting LLC, a firm that specializes in helping construction companies integrate and implement modern construction technology and workflows to improve and streamline their businesses. He also works as a construction startup advisor and as a software product manager for construction software. In addition to conducting research and reporting for industry groups through its MEP Innovation Lab, and helps develop hardware and software solutions for the construction space. Jonathan is the former CTO of Wm. T. Spaeder Company, where he headed up IT, virtual design & construction, and engineering. While there, he championed technology adoption, modular fabrication, BIM, and the advantages of using progressive technological approaches to project and company challenges. He has an extensive background in MEP construction and engineering, with projects ranging from commercial buildings to industrial refineries, and has over two decades of experience in the AEC industry.

Denise is the Partner and Operations Strategist at Steel Toe Consulting LLC, a firm that specializes in helping construction companies integrate and implement modern construction technology and workflows to improve and streamline their businesses. She began consulting in 2013, with a robust track record in elevating operational efficiency and business growth across various industries. Before her role at Steel Toe, she served as the Director of Operations and Business Development for a Union Electrical Contractor, where she launched an EV division, and implemented LEAN methodologies, reduced waste and ensured profitability. She holds an MBA, and BA from Cal State San Bernardino. As an advocate of continued education, she holds certifications in Professional Coaching, Earned Value Management and Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. In addition, her extensive experience in project management and analytics positions her as a leading figure in enhancing team and company performance.

Hannah works with a variety of project teams across U.S. Engineering Construction on workflow improvement processes, labor tracking, and business intelligence analytics. She joined U.S. Engineering in 2020 and holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Benedictine College.

Brian is a Product Marketing Manager at Procore with a focus on Specialty Contractors. Brian grew up in the construction industry and has a passion for helping specialty contractors find tech-based solutions that help them run their businesses more efficiently and profitably.

Tom Adamson is the Vice President of Custom Electric Inc., boasting a remarkable 37-year career that began right out of trade high school as a first-year apprentice. He has climbed the ranks from apprentice to journeyperson, foreman, and project manager, ultimately assuming the role of Vice President for the past two decades. His enduring commitment to his profession exemplifies a dedicated individual who has witnessed the evolution of the electrical industry and had the privilege of connecting with countless inspiring individuals along the way.

Jeff Peterson is a Construction Technologist with P1 Construction LLC. With a background in project management and estimating, he now uses that experience to leverage technology at his company. He has a passion for building custom integrations to make workflows and processes more efficient while capturing and analyzing data to drive better decision making.

Darren has spent 30 years supporting the operations and strategy for Manufacturing and Construction Technologies and sharing his knowledge with the industry. With a unique ability to see problems and solutions others don’t, he strives for pragmatic results using creative solutions others often miss. Always user focused, he strives for implementing solutions and revamping workflows without disrupting productivity in the process.

Nathan C. Wood is the Executive Director of Construction Progress Coalition (CPC), a grassroots non-profit initiative to educate AEC professionals about the need for open interoperability standards between project delivery stakeholders. Nathan’s experience with Virtual Design and Construction (VDC), Lean process improvement, and Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) has led him to realize how even proven technology solutions can result in lost ROI when the needs of people and process are not addressed. Nathan balances his passion for data insights and stakeholder empathy through pragmatic adoption strategy, driving digital standards adoption in design and construction. When not fighting for open standards, Nathan also supports construction transformation as Chief Enabling Officer of SpectrumAEC, delivering speaking engagements, research publications and Design Thinking workshops.

Dave Pikey is the Vice President of Corporate Technology for The Hill Group, a $300M Chicago-based organization engaged in construction and maintenance of mechanical building systems – all with a focus on energy efficiency and sustainability. Dave joined Hill in 1998 as a design engineer and has been developing process and technology around modeling, estimating, prefabrication, automation, modular construction and business intelligence since 2004. Dave has also run marketing and communication for The Hill Group. He is often an industry guest speaker sharing his experience on leveraging technology in a collaborative environment to deliver a better product in the construction process. Dave has a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from Purdue University.

Bobby is an accomplished Project Manager with over two decades of experience in the electrical construction industry. A Master Electrician proudly affiliated with IBEW Local 103 in Boston, he started as an apprentice at Lynnwell Associates, and progressed from Journeyman Wireman, to Foreman, and ultimately Project Manager. In his current role, he oversees critical projects, ensuring they meet the highest industry standards and exceed client expectations. His hands-on experience and deep understanding of electrical systems make him an ideal leader for overseeing intricate projects from inception to completion. In addition to Project Management, Bobby contributes to the company’s prefabrication, business development and employee training efforts. Notably, Bobby is a current member of the NECA Innovation Institute, demonstrating his commitment to innovation and growth in the electrical field. Bobby’s dedication to his craft and continuous pursuit of excellence have earned him a reputation as a valuable leader and a significant contributor to the electrical industry.

Eric is responsible for the Pre-Construction project side of the VDC Operations at John W. Danforth as well as development and maintenance of company VDC software’s, standards and procedures. Included responsibilities are the implementation and support of the company VDC Software’s, standards, user support, administration, process development, training and deployment. Eric has been pioneering new VDC/BIM technologies including their Microsoft HoloLens and 3-D Laser Scanning Technology. Eric is a AutoDesk Certified Professional, an Autodesk Certified Instructor, a member of the Buffalo-Niagara ASPE Chapter and a member of the Buffalo BIM User Group. Eric has been in the AEC industry for 34 years and has been with John W. Danforth for the last 14 years. Eric received his Mechanical Engineering Technology Degree from Erie Community College.

Jeff Miller graduated from Purdue University in 2007 and has been working with Harrell-Fish Inc. (HFI) ever since. He began his career in project management and is now the Director of HFI’s Virtual Construction Team. Miller manages the team on BIM Coordination, 3D Modeling, Fabrication Spooling, Laser Scanning, and Robotic Layout to help with the pre-construction and rough-in phases.

David Basiji has worked with technology startups for most of his career. He started Amnis Corporation in 1999 to develop a novel cellular imaging technology and led the company until its sale in 2011.

David joined PypeServer in 2019 with the mission to establish the company as the industry-standard provider of fabrication software to MEP contractors that it is today.

Mike Chandler is currently the Fabrication Database Manager for Therma LLC, a Legence company, where he started as a Piping Detailer. Prior to joining Therma, Mike was a Piping Foreman and Detailer at Silicon Valley Mechanical.

Steve has worked his entire career in the VDC/BIM field, starting in 2005. Throughout that time he has performed BIM at every level – as a designer, modeler, detailer, lead detailer, BIM coordinator, and BIM Manager. Recently Steve has been given a new role at ACCO Engineering Systems: Construction Technology Manager – VDC, where he is focusing on how VDC workflows and data can be utilized and beneficial in other facets of the business. Steve was previously a BIM Manager at ACCO Engineered Systems for 14 years and has been instrumental in setting up and implementing BIM/VDC workflows throughout the company.

A passionate and experienced technologist, Ryan leads the corporate manufacturing and virtual construction strategy, standards, and operation, as well as construction technology adoption and implementation at UMC. He focuses on doing everything possible to automate the manufacturing process and drive service to the field teams. He is responsible for developing and implementing technologies such at UMC that save significant time and money in the manufacturing process, contribute to better coordination and less time spent on jobsites, and improve the bottom line for clients and owners. With 19 years in the construction and manufacturing industry, Ryan inspires curiosity and problem solving through his willingness to explore ideas, options and scenarios that result in constructive solutions for better project delivery.

Darren has spent 30 years supporting the operations and strategy for Manufacturing and Construction Technologies and sharing his knowledge with the industry. With a unique ability to see problems and solutions others don’t, he strives for pragmatic results using creative solutions others often miss. Always user focused, he strives for implementing solutions and revamping workflows without disrupting productivity in the process.

After many years of studying human behavior and dedicating his career to understanding what makes people ‘tick’, David Meade has become an influential and impactful speaker across the USA and Europe. Through his many leadership and strategic roles in the real estate, hotel and retail sectors, Meade has observed how people in the same role perform at different levels of effectiveness. He took that information back to one of Ireland’s leading universities where he merged his passion for sharing cutting-edge research with his enthusiastic love for performing. This energy has allowed him to wear many hats and titles successfully such as broadcaster, business leader, keynote speaker and master of ceremonies.

Instead of lecturing an audience with his research and business experiences, Meade values a more immersive and interactive approach. He believes attendees are more likely to get a full grasp of the session when they are engaged in the presentation and enjoy the material. This psychology-driven style of delivery has given Meade the chance to interact with corporate audiences from IBM, Harvard University, Citi Bank, Volkswagen, Facebook, British Airways, Apple Inc. and many more. After years of research, he has learned how to make meaningful change happen in his clients. Meade’s goal is to encourage fundamental changes that will leave individuals excited about future opportunities and the direction of their organizations.

Jake is an engineer and entrepreneur with a passion for building things. He has built a construction software company from ground up, patented product lines that have generated over $100 million in revenue, high performing teams that have created completely new areas of business for large corporations, international businesses, multiple software platforms for the construction industry and have been involved in the building of homes, hospitals, office towers, tunnels and mega infrastructure projects around the world. He is most grateful for, however, the personal relationships built along the way.

Jarret Bergkamp has spent the past 18 years navigating the electrical industry, currently holding the position of Executive Director of Operations at Decker Electric, Inc. in Wichita, KS. His journey began immediately after high school when he entered the field through an apprenticeship program facilitated by the local Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC). At every juncture in his career, he has embraced each role as an opportunity for growth and learning. Jarret remains deeply appreciative of the opportunities he has received, and his progression from apprentice to Executive Director serves as a constant reminder of the importance of hard work, dedication, and a sincere attitude of gratitude.

Stephan Schnell is the Director of Training UA Local 467. He has an extensive background in construction education and construction technology. He serves on several educational committees on the local and national level.

Michael Parkes was born and raised in Rochester, NY. He was a graduate of Honeoye Falls-Lima High School and went on to earn his Bachelors of Science in Electrical Engineering from Clarkson University in 2003. Upon graduating from college he worked as an electrical engineer for O’Brien & Gere and then TRC where he became a licensed professional engineer in the State of New York. After eight years of working in the engineering consulting field he took a position with his family’s electrical contracting business (O’Connell Electric) as the Power Group General Manager and in 2019 was promoted to Vice President – Power Group. Michael’s group manages all of the company’s utility accounts which covers substations, underground T&D and overhead T&D. Michael is responsible for over 300 field and office employees and approximately $200 million in annual revenue. Michael currently serves as the ELECTRI Council Chair, is an ELECTRI Trustee and is a NECA Innovation and Strategy Task Force Member.

Jared Redelman leads the VDC and Project Controls teams at Bowen Engineering, a self-performing general contractor. With 16 years of construction experience, Jared understands the struggles construction teams face daily. A strong supporter of construction technology, Jared has successfully implemented multiple technology workflows into Bowen’s standard routine. Jared holds a degree in Construction Management from Purdue University. In 2020, he was presented with Bowen’s annual innovation award for driving continuous improvement.

Ernie P. is a 4th generation employee of his family’s sheet metal contracting business. Having work experience in financial tech before returning to the family business, Ernie has worked to digitize many internal processes within the company. His experience helping older generations adapt new technology helped the company navigate the sharing of information during the pandemic, and continually strives to improve efficiencies with digital solutions.

Wesley L. Wheeler, SMS, CESCP, is the National Electrical Contractor Association’s, (NECA), Executive Director of Safety. Wesley joined NECA in 2014 and has over 43 years of electrical experience. Wesley is a BCSP Safety Management Specialist, (SMS), and an NFPA Certified Electrical Safety Compliance Professional, (CESCP). He has served on OSHA’s Advisory Committee for Construction Safety and Health, (ACCSH), and has been on NFPA National Electrical Code, (NEC), Technical Committees since 2008, in addition to NFPA 70E Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace Committee for the 2018 and 2021 editions.

Ron King has been employed by Trimble MEP since 2006 as Industry Relations and Business Development Director. Prior to joining Trimble, he was employed for 17 years by a multi-trade contractor in Northwest Ohio, providing a broad range of industrial construction services. Ron is also co-chairman of the MCAA WebLEM committee, which is responsible for the formulation of labor units used by mechanical contractors. He also participates on the Pipe Fabrication Institute (PFI) Engineering Committee.

Hailing from a family of electrical contractors, Davis graduated from Louisiana State University in 1975. After graduation, he entered the JATC apprenticeship and successfully completed the program in 1979. Davis worked as a journeyman for several years until assuming a management role in 1984. After taking on leadership responsibilities, Davis worked with the day-to-day production as well as estimating bids, personnel decisions, and contract negotiations.

Bob Davis Electric joined NECA in 1923. Since then, the company has been actively involved with NECA at the local and national level. Kirk Davis became involved when he attended his first national convention in 1979 in San Francisco. Locally, Davis has served on the Board of Directors and the Negotiations Committee and as Vice President and President. He has been elected to multiple terms as Governor of the North Louisiana Chapter, NECA. He also served as President of the Louisiana Council. Nationally, Davis served on the Marketing Committee, the Disaster Relief Fund Committee, and the Workforce Development Committee. He was inducted into the Academy of Electrical Contracting in 2011. Davis has served as NECA’s District 3 Vice President for the last four years.

Davis has observed a gradual improvement in labor relations and working conditions for employees over the years, adding that there is now a heavier emphasis on better safety training and the needs of contractors to be successful. NECA offers members valuable resources through field services and educational programs.

Kirk has been married to his wife Becky for 46 years. They have two adult children, Todd and Tricia, and five grandchildren, with whom they enjoy spending time. Family activities include beach trips, spending time at the family farm, family lake house, and attending LSU tailgates. Kirk and Becky are active in their church, First United Methodist Church of Shreveport.