For the last 50 years, SMPS has engaged, inspired, and empowered A/E/C professionals for leadership and lifelong learning. We recognize that this longevity and impact can be directly attributed to our 7,000+ members, which are 73% women. In alignment with our diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) commitment, SMPS is debuting our new Women + A/E/C initiative to empower, champion and celebrate the impact of women in the A/E/C industry.
Introducing the Women + A/E/C Initiative
Women +A/E/C is a new initiative set out to provide a space and a vehicle for women to amplify their voice and be champions of what’s next in the A/E/C industries and beyond. Making up more than 50% of the population in the United States and Canada, women are a viable source for workforce growth. We need their future participation to ensure our industries attract the best and most qualified talent possible. Gender diversity makes a difference in performance and profitability, and Women + A/E/C will be a catalyst for progress in the A/E/C industries.
Event Information
Dates: May 16, 17 & 18
Location: Virtual
Price: $150
Everyone Is Welcome (Not Just Women)
The future of A/E/C includes everyone. We encourage men, women and non-binary people to participate in these impactful discussions led by women leaders about technology, economics, leadership, sustainability and data. We extend this invitation beyond marketers and business developers to architects, project managers, contractors, CEOs, human resource professionals, and all others impacted by women in the A/E/C industries. If you are a woman or work with women, this Women + A/E/C initiative was designed for you.
Women + A/E/C Thanks Our Premier Sponsor
Full Symposium Schedule
May 16 | 2pm | Breaking Ground: Women Shaping the Future of A/E/C Panel
In today’s complex and rapidly changing A/E/C industry, leadership is not just about titles and positions. It’s about the ability to influence and inspire others, regardless of where you sit in the organization. This session will explore the concept of “leading from every seat” and how women in A/E/C can develop the audacity to lead, even in the face of uncertainty and resistance. Drawing on real-world examples and research-based insights, our expert panelists will share practical strategies for building confidence, embracing risk-taking, and challenging the status quo. You’ll learn how to recognize and leverage your own strengths, build trust and credibility with others, and cultivate a culture of innovation and growth. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting out in your career, this session will inspire you to take bold actions and make a positive impact in your organization and beyond.
Welcome:
- Dana Lancour, FSMPS, CPSM, President-ELect, SMPS | Vice President, Branding + Communications, Barton Malow Holdings
Moderator:
- Nandi Rice, MA, Vice President, Marketing, Society for Marketing Professional Services
Panelists:
- Holly Bolton, FSMPS, CPSM – SMPS Society President | Owner, 3chord Marketing
- Bolanle Williams – Olley- CFO & co-owner Mancini Duffy
- Jennifer Haferbecker, CPSM, Chief Marketing Officer, HGA
- Sallyann Hulick, Chief Revenue Officer, BSA LifeStructures
May 17 | 2pm | Data, Technology, and Economy: Opportunities and Challenges for Women in A/E/C
The A/E/C industry is experiencing a technological revolution that is transforming the way we design, build, and operate buildings and infrastructure. This session will explore the intersection of data, technology, and the economy and how it is shaping the future of the AEC industry. Our expert will share insights on the latest trends and innovations in data and technology, and how they are impacting the A/E/C industry’s economic landscape. You’ll learn about the challenges and opportunities for women in A/E/C, and how they can leverage their skills and expertise to drive innovation and growth. We’ll also discuss strategies for developing the next generation of A/E/C professionals and how we can ensure a more diverse and inclusive industry. Whether you’re a seasoned A/E/C professional or just starting out in your career, this session will provide valuable insights and ideas for thriving in a rapidly evolving industry.
Welcome:
- Jennifer NIx McGerald, CPSM, SMPS DEI Committee Chair | Associate Director, Communications, RS&H
Moderator:
- Tina Myers, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Society for Marketing Professional Services
Keynote speaker:
- Lindsey Rem, PHR, Vice President | Business Transformation, Barton Malow
May 18 | 2pm | Building a Sustainable Future: How Women Can Drive Positive Change
Dr. Sweta Chakraborty is a climate behavioral scientist who is regularly interviewed on major, international news media outlets like CNN, the BBC, MSNBC, etc. Sweta is the CEO of North America for We Don’t Have Time, the world’s largest social media and communications company for accelerating climate solutions . She is a partner at Pioneer Public Affairs and is on the steering committee of the Global Commons Alliance. She is an Independent Director at Lightbridge Corp. where she chairs their ESG committee, and is on several advisory boards like the New York Academy of Sciences and Climate Power. She is a book author from her time as a postdoc at Oxford University. She is a TEDx, SXSW, and globally recognized keynote speaker and consultant for several Fortune 100 companies.
Sponsored by the SMPS Foundation
Welcome:
- Barbara Shuck, FSMPS, CPSM, SMPS Foundation President
Moderator:
- Marci D. Thompson, DES, Chief Strategy Officer, Society for Marketing Professional Services
Keynote speaker:
- Dr. Sweta Chakraborty

Women + A/E/C Speakers

Jennifer Haferbecker, CPSM
Chief Marketing Officer, HGA

Dana Lancour, FSMPS, CPSM
President-Elect, SMPS | Vice President, Branding + Communications,Barton Malow Holdings

Jennifer Nix McGerald, CPSM
SMPS DEI Committee Chair | Associate Director, Communications, RS&H

Barbara Shuck, FSMPS, CPSM
SMPS Foundation President | Owner, Everest Marketing Services

Tina Myers, CAE
Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Society for Marketing Professional Services

Nandi Rice, MA
Vice President, Marketing, Society for Marketing Professional Services

Marci Thompson, DES
Chief Strategy Officer, Society for Marketing Professional Services
How To Champion Women + A/E/C
If your firm wants to be part of the growth of our Women + A/E/C initiative, you can become a sponsor. We have one exclusive EMPOWER sponsor and three sponsorship tiers: Impact, Engage and Support. For more information about how your firm can participate, visit our Women + A/E/C Partnership webpage.
Have questions about Women + A/E/C? Reach out to dei@smps.org.