by Jessica Gillette | Apr 22, 2025
HARNESSING THE POWER OF A.I. IN DESIGN + CONSTRUCTION
Thursday, May 29, 2025 | 3:30PM – 5:30PM
Join us for an exciting workshop where we’ll explore the game-changing potential of Generative AI in the design and construction industry.
Discover how this cutting-edge technology can:
• Rapidly generate multiple design scenarios and realistic renderings in minutes
• Streamline collaboration between architects, engineers, planners, and clients
• Unlock new levels of efficiency and creativity in the planning and design process
Our expert team at Woolpert will share real-world applications, case studies and insights on how AI is transforming the industry. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of the tools, capabilities, and future trends that will take your projects to the next level.
Key Takeaways:
• Practical applications of Generative AI in design and construction
• Strategies for effective collaboration and communication with clients and stakeholders
• Insights into the future of AI in the industry and how to stay ahead of the curve
Who should attend: Anyone in the development and construction industry looking to stay ahead of the curve and unlock new possibilities in design and construction.
SPEAKERS
Luis Ajamil, Principal, Woolpert – Mr. Ajamil is a Principal at Bermello Ajamil, a Woolpert Company, where he leads multidisciplinary design projects globally. With expertise in planning and engineering, he has developed innovative solutions for maritime, municipal, and transportation clients. As a recognized expert in the maritime field, Mr. Ajamil shares his insights as a keynote speaker and panelist at conferences worldwide.
Ivan Perez, Full-Stack Developer, Woolpert – Ivan Perez has over six years of experience in software engineering with a specialization in AI research and development. His expertise encompasses developing and maintaining AI-driven software systems that enhance project delivery capabilities. Responsibilities have included designing, developing and implementing AI solutions that streamline design workflows. He excels in integrating AI technologies into project management frameworks to enhance data-driven decision-making. He collaborates effectively with cross-functional teams to develop robust AI software, ensuring its scalability, performance and security.
LOCATION
Hourigan
4429 Bonney Road, Suite 200, Virginia Beach, VA 23462
COST
Members – $67
Non-Members – $97
Questions?
Contact Jamie Carrow
by Jessica Gillette | Apr 10, 2025
FACILITATING MEANINGFUL STRATEGIC MEETINGS with JAMIE VANEK
Wednesday, June 18, 2025 | 11:30AM – 1:00PM
What exactly are strategic meetings and why do they matter? If you’ve ever left a meeting feeling frustrated, bored, or like it was a waste of time, you’re not alone. Facilitating meetings isn’t just a dull requirement of managers, it’s a necessity to move the organization, team or project forward. The problem is that many people don’t know how to make these meetings more meaningful, engaging, and results driven.
In this session we’ll cover the definition and benefits of strategic meetings as well as the playbook for leading effective meetings.
In this session you will learn:
• What is strategy and why does it matter?
• Keys to successful meetings
• Facilitation techniques
• The three most important questions to ask before having a meeting
This session is for anyone who has to lead meetings for organizations, teams or projects, Supervisors, Project Managers, Office Managers, Executives
SPEAKER
Jamie Vanek, President, Etolin Strait Development Group – Jamie Vanek made the unexpected career leap from teaching to construction in 2007 and discovered a passion for project management and team leadership. After diving deep into the federal contracting industry through construction, Jamie has led projects and teams across the country in support of many federal agencies including NAVFAC, USACE, FBI, NIWC, Coast Guard. Department of Veteran Affairs, and Air Force. Jamie is currently President of Etolin Strait Development Group, an Alaska Native 8(a) Company, headquartered in Norfolk, Virginia, and executing contracts from Washington DC to Georgia.
As a female leader in the construction industry, author, TEDx speaker, and facilitator, Jamie has been featured in Construction Business Owner, Construction Executive, ThriveGlobal, and other digital publications about leading in the construction industry. Visit Jamie’s website to learn more | Watch Jamie’s TEDx Talk!
LOCATION
ABC-VA Hampton Roads Training Facility
530 Independence Parkway, Suite 500, Chesapeake, VA 23320
COST
Members – $67
Non-Members – $97
Lunch provided
Questions?
Contact Jamie Carrow
by Jessica Gillette | Apr 2, 2025
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS: ONE HOUR BEFORE BID KNOWLEDGE & NETWORKING MIXER
Wednesday, May 21, 2025 | 3:00PM – 6:00PM
One Hour Before Bid emphasizes the most important part of the hard bid process – the last hour! Invite a co-worker or two and join us @ Great American Ranch – Midlothian for a very interactive, hands-on and engaging workshop that is complemented with a discussion of relevant problems during this hour. The workshop will end with attendees forming teams and preparing an actual bid.
Networking will follow the end of the workshop with light apps and drinks. The workshop begins promptly at 3:00PM and will end at approximately 5:00PM, followed by networking until the end of event.
Non-members welcome! Please note: this event is for Young Professionals (40 & under).
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Event Sponsor $500 – includes two (2) registrations, large signage at event, logo/name on marketing materials
Dinner Sponsor $300– includes one (1) registration, signage at event, logo/name on marketing materials
Bar Sponsor $300 – includes one (1) registration, signage at event, logo/name on marketing materials
LOCATION
Great American Ranch
13995 Raised Antler Circle, Midlothian, VA 23112
COST
Member – $70
Non-Member – $120
Includes light apps and drinks
SUBSTITUTIONS/CANCELLATIONS POLICY
Substitutions are welcome at any time if the originally registered individual(s) can no longer attend. Cancellations must be made within 48 hours of event.
Questions?
Contact Kristen Altermatt
by Jessica Gillette | Apr 2, 2025
THE 7 HABITS OF HIGHLY EFFECTIVE PEOPLE WORKSHOP
May 7 & 8, 2025 | 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Habits are powerful forces in our lives that determine our level of effectiveness or ineffectiveness. The purpose of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, based on principles detailed in Stephen Covey’s popular self-help book, is to help you lead your life in a truly effective way. They represent a proven process of personal and interpersonal growth that can have an immediate and lasting impact. Gain a personal plan of action to enhance your productivity and leadership skills.
Benefits of Attending:
Dr. Stephen R. Covey was a global leadership authority. His international bestseller, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People®”, was named one of the 10 most influential management books ever by Forbes magazine and is the bestselling audio book in history.
This two-day, intensive course will help you to:
• Execute critical priorities with focus and planning
• End self-defeating behavior
• Develop strong relationships based on mutual trust
• Be prepared to deal with difficult circumstances before they happen
• Increase team engagement, morale and collaboration
•Create a highly effective culture based on core values
•Raise up the next leaders who model competence and character
Join ABC-VA for two days of interactive discussion on the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Learn how to use the seven habits to strengthen both professional and personal development. This renowned class will leave you feeling energized, refreshed and ready to take on the world with a new perspective.
PRE-WORK REQUIRED: Attendees will be sent a 360-degree survey to send to supervisors, colleagues, industry peers, friends and the like. Register early to make sure you have plenty of time for your surveys to be completed!
“A class everyone (at every level) should complete. I took so much from this and work to apply it to my life every day!” -Juliane Faller, Senior Business Development Manager, Balfour Beatty US
• Recommended but not required reading: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
• Information on The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: https://www.franklincovey.com/the-7-habits/
• Information on Dr. Stephen R. Covey and The 7 Habits: https://www.stephencovey.com/
INSTRUCTOR
Patrick Dean, ABC-VA
LOCATION
ABC-VA Hampton Roads Training Facility
530 Independence Parkway, Suite 500, Chesapeake, VA 23320
COST
Members: $575
Non-Members: $795
Includes pre-assessment, course materials and lunch
REGISTRATION / CANCELLATION DEADLINE
April 23, 2025
Please note: a reservation constitutes a financial commitment unless cancellations are made one (1) week in advance. Substitutions are always welcome if the originally registered attendee(s) can no longer attend.
COURSE CONTACT
Jamie Carrow
by Jessica Gillette | Apr 1, 2025
BEST PRACTICES: START-UP & CLOSE-OUT
Thursday, May 22, 2025 | 3:00PM – 5:00PM
Are you a project manager or assistant PM looking to enhance your skills in commercial construction? Join us for an engaging and interactive class where we dive into the essential steps for successfully starting up and closing out projects.
Learn from industry experts as they share valuable tips and practices for the critical phases of project management—from the moment a project is awarded to the final turnover. Discover what has worked well in our experiences, and be aware of common pitfalls to avoid.
This class is designed to be highly interactive, encouraging questions and discussions to ensure you gain practical insights and knowledge. Don’t miss this opportunity to boost your project management expertise and connect with fellow professionals!
LOCATION
ABC-VA Northern Virginia Training Facility
42680 Trade West Drive, Dulles, VA 20166
COST
Members – $55
Non-Members – $75
SUBSTITUTION/CANCELLATION POLICY
Substitutions are welcome at any time if the originally registered individual can no longer attend. Please note that a reservation constitutes a financial commitment unless cancellations are made 48 hours in advance.
Questions?
Contact Jenny Tashjian
