Agenda
2024 PROGRAM
Wednesday, November 6, 2024
12:00 p.m.
ACEC Research Institute Golf Classic
Sponsored by PKF O’Connor Davies and Autodesk
Tiburón Golf Club next to The Ritz-Carlton Tiburón
1:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Pre-Conference Workshops
1:00 – 2:30 pm: Session One
Latest Statistics and Trends on Company Valuations and Transaction Structures
Ian Rusk, Managing Principal and Michael O’Brien, Principal, ROG+ Partners
Using our 11th edition A/E Business Valuation and M&A Transaction Study, this session will highlight the most successful ownership models employed by privately held A/E firms. We’ll explore the various ways that firms handle ownership eligibility, establish their share price, facilitate new investment, manage stock repurchases, handle governance, and more.
3:00 – 4:30 pm: Session Two
Effective M&A Strategies for A/E Firms
Steve Gido, Principal, ROG+ Partners and Taylor Dolan, Member, Lee/Shoemaker PLLC
Steve and Taylor will assess the current M&A landscape, buyer and seller motivations, private equity influence, valuation and deal structure trends, risks and coverage concerns and the delicate journey from courtship to closing.
Welcome Reception and Golf Awards
Sponsored by Ames & Gough
Tiburón Golf Club next to The Ritz-Carlton Tiburón
Thursday, November 7, 2024
Registration and Networking Breakfast I Sponsored by alliantgroup
Keynote Session
State of the A/E Industry: Enjoying the Tailwinds...But What's Swirling Next?
Steve Gido, Principal, ROG+ Partners
In his opening keynote, Steve will provide an overview of the growth and ownership trends impacting A/E firms in 2024. Topics will also include observations on the overall industry climate and conditions as well as specific opportunities and challenges leaders are facing in yet another busy and buoyant year.
Keynote Session
A Bridge Too Far? Leadership to Build Upon in a Dynamic Market
Jenn Donahue, International Keynote Speaker, US Navy Captain (ret), Civil Engineer
Technological advancements, economic shifts, global events, and evolving workforce expectations have changed today’s business world. Are you getting left behind? As leaders, many of us are struggling with strategic alignment, managing change, communication issues, and employee engagement. The world has evolved, and effective leadership demands a fresh perspective and adaptable strategies. Using a three-element approach, developed through scientific research and personal experiences, she provides the audience the keys to retain, grow and inspire your workforce. Her story-driven approach underscores the importance of trust, and what’s needed to create loyal, dedicated, and motivated teams.
Networking Break
Keynote Session
Stop Acting Your Age!
Matt Havens, International Speaker and Generational Expert
If you’ve ever been frustrated by how impossible it seems to employ four different strategies to manage four distinct generations, and if you’ve ever felt like you’re the only one who’s being asked to make any changes, then this keynote presentation is exactly what you need. Because it turns out that there really aren’t four generations. In this keynote, you’ll learn a simpler way of looking at your own generational picture, and you’ll also learn how to understand, recognize, and resolve every generational issue facing today’s workforce.
Lunch I Sponsored by Deltek
Court of Palms
Keynote Session
Let’s Get On the Ball: Rules To Modernize Your Business
Steve Nudelberg, Author, Sales Trainer, Consultant, On the Ball
In this session, we dive into the core elements that shape successful individuals and thriving organizations. Steve’s rules of engagement are standard operating procedures that have been cultivated from over 40 years of experience and relationships with top performers all over the world. Explore the power of Personal Branding, and the strategies to not only define your brand but to authentically communicate it, leaving a lasting impression in both personal and professional spheres. We'll discuss leadership and uncover the principles that differentiate great leaders from the rest. Finally, we'll dive into the intricate web of Culture and its pivotal role in fostering a positive and productive environment.
Networking Break I Sponsored by Informed Infrastructure
Breakout Session 1
The Future of Taxes and the Impact on Your Firm’s Strategy
Dave Sullivan, Jr., Partner, A&E Practice, PKF O’Connor Davies LLP
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which became effective in 2018, included many provisions that are set to expire on December 31, 2025. We will discuss what your firm should be doing to prepare for these changes and thoughts on potential future legislation. We will also discuss the potential tax impact of the recent presidential election which will have concluded prior to the conference, as well as the potential impact to your tax planning strategies. Lastly, we will discuss the status of Section 174 R&D legislation, tax planning strategies for 2024 and succession planning and exit planning strategies your firm may want to consider. This session always includes significant Q&A so please bring your questions as well for a lively discussion.
Breakout Session 2
Ownership Planning Begins At the End
Michael S. O’Brien, ASA, CM&AA, Principal, ROG+ Partners
In the intricate landscape of business ownership, navigating the complexities of ownership planning demands a strategic approach. This presentation invites participants to embark on a journey of foresight and intentionality, where the destination is not just ownership, but sustainable success and enduring legacy. With the end in mind, this seminar delves into the fusion of ownership planning and strategic foresight, offering attendees a comprehensive roadmap to sculpt their future enterprise. From succession planning to asset protection, attendees will explore the crucial elements of ownership planning through a strategic lens, ensuring alignment with overarching business goals. Participants will engage in dynamic discussions and case studies, learning to envision the future of their organization and proactively shape it through strategic ownership decisions. They will uncover the significance of integrating ownership planning seamlessly into broader strategic initiatives, fostering resilience and adaptability in the face of evolving market landscapes.
Breakout Session 3
Making Thought Leadership Work for Your A/E Firm
Jason Mlicki, Principal, Rattleback
For over a decade, A/E firm marketers have shared a desire to make their firms more "digital-first" in their marketing with thought leadership as the catalyst. Yet, a lot of firms have struggled to make it happen. Jason will share lessons learned from helping A/E firms of all shapes and sizes successfully make the transition from a "relationship-only" to a "thought leadership-driven" marketing model. Topics will include the practicalities of building a thought leadership program, how to get your marketers and subject matter experts rowing together, and how you can use AI to streamline the process.
Breakout Session 4
The AI Imperative: A Trailblazer’s Perspective
Javier Baldor, CEO, BST Global
Artificial intelligence and big data are changing the face of the AEC industry. Hence, BST Global brought together 15 senior technology visionaries from the world’s preeminent architecture, engineering and environmental consultancies in April 2024 to share how they’re preparing for an AI-powered and data-driven future. BST Global CEO Javier A. Baldor will reflect on the AI Summit, an industry-first event focused on all things AI for the AEC industry, and share exclusive insights derived from the event, including:
- How to strike a balance between the critical priorities you face today and navigating uncharted waters to strategically position your business for future success
- What the first few steps on your AI journey can look like and what AI essentials you’ll want in place to achieve long-term success
- Why traditional business models will be upended with the rise of AI and how to explore new ideas for the future of the industry
- Examples of real AI use cases happening in our industry that you can implement at your own firm
Breakout Session 5
Ditch the Cookie Cutter Approach: Craft a Strategic Plan as Unique as Your Firm
Chandra Storrusten, CEO & Chief Value Creation Officer, Visible Value
Are you tired of "one-size-fits-all" strategic planning efforts that create strategic plans that leave your firm feeling bland and uninspired? It's time to ditch the cookie-cutter approach and create a recipe for success specifically designed for your firm. Join us for a session that will help you: identify the unique ingredients that make your firm stand out; craft a strategic plan that's as flavorful and exciting as your company culture; bake in engagement and buy-in to ensure everyone across your firm gets on board for maximum impact and outcomes; and turn your plan into a reality to achieve mouthwatering results that will generate a significant return on your strategic planning investment and leave your competitors trapped in the cookie jar. You can roll out a plan from a box, but why not create a work of art that suits your needs (and taste)? Come learn how to create a strategic masterpiece that leaves a lasting taste of success and resiliency for your firm!
Breakout Session 6
R&D Credit: New Documentation Standards That Can Cost You Future Savings
Greg Knarr, Director, alliantgroup
In today's rapidly evolving architecture and engineering industry, businesses must adopt strategic approaches to maintain competitiveness, enhance ROI, and retain skilled workers. Our industry experts will lead an engaging discussion on current trends and provide practical advice that businesses can implement immediately to stay ahead of the curve. A key focus of our discussion will be the critical role of Research and Development Credits (R&D) in the A&E sector. With technological advancements and increasing demands for precision and efficiency, the R&D credit has become more crucial than ever. We'll explore how businesses can leverage R&D to innovate their processes, improve product quality, and reduce costs. Importantly, we'll address the new documentation requirements for R&D activities for ROG+ attendees. Even if your business is already claiming R&D credits, it's essential to take a second look at your documentation practices. Recent changes in regulations mean that many businesses may be missing out on valuable tax incentives or risk non-compliance. Our experts will guide you through these new requirements, ensuring you're maximizing your benefits while staying fully compliant. This session will equip leaders with insights on industry trends, strategies for workforce retention, and practical tips for navigating the complex landscape of R&D tax credits. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge that could significantly impact your bottom line and future success.
7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
ROG+ Reception with hors d’oeurves and carving stations
The Ritz-Carlton Tiburón Ria Restaurant Poolside
Friday, November 8, 2024
Networking Breakfast I Sponsored by BST Global
8:15 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.
Keynote Session
The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly
Dr. Anirban Basu, Chairman & CEO, Sage Policy Group, Inc.
Has the Federal Reserve successfully engineered a soft landing? Or is the confluence of geopolitical conflict, a presidential election, rising consumer debt levels, and still high interest rates conspiring to produce economic downturn in 2025? It is difficult to know whether 2025 will be a good year – but one thing is clear – it will be a very interesting one. This presentation will supply in-depth analysis of major factors shaping economic outcomes, including interest rates, global conflict, wage dynamics, business confidence, and demographics. It will then turn toward a forecast for the coming year, highlighting the major risks that economic stakeholders will likely encounter.
9:15 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
ACEC Research Institute Panel Discussion
Engineering Economics: Assessing the Impact and Forecasting the Future
Moderator: Steve Gido, Principal, ROG Partners
Panelists: Joe Bates, Senior Research Consultant, ACEC Research Institute; Mike Carragher, VHB President & CEO and Chair of ACEC Research Institute
Join our dynamic panel discussion on the 2024 Economic Assessment and Forecast, exploring the impact of the U.S. Economy on the Engineering and Design Services sector. The latest findings from the Institute’s annual economic assessment and quarterly Engineering Business Sentiment study will be shared, providing a comprehensive view of industry health and future outlook.
NEW!
Round Table Discussions
Round Table Discussion 1
Architecting Agility: Building a Future-Ready Organizational Structure
Moderated by Chandra Storrusten, CEO & Chief Value Creation Officer, Visible Value
Join us for an insightful session where you'll gain practical strategies to transform your organizational structure into a dynamic engine, purposefully designed to achieve your unique strategic vision and foster long-term resilience. Learn how to evaluate and evolve your structure so that it not only aligns with but actively drives the realization of your strategic plan. We’ll also explore real-world examples of how companies have successfully transformed to promote agility, adaptability, and innovation across their organization, ensuring they remain competitive in a rapidly changing environment.
Round Table Discussion 2
Key Factors that Help Companies Hire and Retain the Right People
Moderated by Carol Metzner, President, The Metzner Group
In today’s competitive job market, attracting and retaining top talent is crucial for the success of any organization. Our conversation will delve into the key factors that help companies hire and retain the right people. And, can you keep recruiters/headhunters from taking your people?
12:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
ROG + Fishing Outing or Naples Bay Cruise
Plan on boarding an open air trolley in front of the Ritz-Carlton at 12:30 p.m. for a 15-minute ride to Port-o-Call Marina.
Those fishing will grab lunch and beverages and board the nine fishing vessels with experienced and fun captains for some backwater sport fishing. After the 3½ hour outing (from 1:00 to 4:30) we will reconvene back at the marina and head back to The Ritz-Carlton, Tiburón. Limited to 52 anglers.
Those selecting the afternoon cruise sponsored by Unanet will board the Naples Princess and will experience the natural beauty of Naples Bay and the spectacular homes of Port Royal. The cruise length is 2 hours and lunch and full bar will be provided. Your trolley will be waiting for you for the return trip to the The Ritz-Carlton, Tiburón. Limited to 120 passengers.
November 5-7
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In Partnership with
2024 Sponsors
