2024 Speakers
Aaron Witt
"Chief Dirt Nerd" & CEO, BuildWitt
Aaron Witt grew up like many of us, loving bulldozers from birth.
When it came time to choose a career, he naturally opted for construction at 18 years old. He began as a laborer on a pipe crew and went on to work for five different heavy construction companies while earning an engineering degree at Arizona State.
But his perfect plan to become an earthmoving contractor took a turn when he began sharing his experiences as a young construction professional on social media. His storytelling took off shortly after graduation, and he quit his job to do it full-time.
Aaron and BuildWitt focused on storytelling and marketing for the construction and mining industries in the first few years. Step one for attracting the next generation is education.
Today, BuildWitt helps contractors attract, hire, train, and retain great people through many offerings—creative services, a jobs platform, a training platform, and even an industry-leading leadership conference.
Specifically, Aaron is learning how to lead the BuildWitt team while traveling worldwide to learn about the Dirt World firsthand.
Jesse Itzler
Serial Entrepreneur & Author, Self Employed
A successful serial entrepreneur, Jesse’s mission is to continually raise the bar and build his LIFE RESUME. And with a passion for endurance challenges, he completed Ultraman in 2022 at the age of 53, which entails a 6.2 mile open water swim, 261.4 mile bike, and 52.4 mile run, the same year he sold his endurance hiking company, 29029 Everesting, to iFit. These things are not uncommon for Jesse, who also completed a 100 mile running race, sold Marquis Jet to Warren Buffett in 2010, and partnered with Zico Coconut Water which sold to Coca-Cola in 2013.
Jesse’s career is unlike anyone else. He started as a rapper on MTV in 1991, became the Manager of the greatest hip hop band ever, Run-DMC, and wrote the anthem for the NY Knicks.
He always says, "you don’t have to be the smartest in the room, but you have to be the most passionate." He teaches his principles and best practices through his online course and coaching program—where thousands of people have learned from his lifestyle approach and applied it to their own.
When he’s not training with Navy Seals (check out his book, Living with A Seal) or learning from monks (check out his other book, Living with Monks), you can find him plunging in cold water and sweating in hot saunas as part of his latest venture, All Day Running Co., a brand built on the foundation of combining race-like challenges (half-marathons, marathons, etc.) with retreat-like experiences (cold and heat exposure).
At the end of the day, his proudest accomplishment is his family—with 3 sons and a daughter, he and his wife, Sara Blakely (founder of SPANX), definitely have their hands full!
Herb Sargent
President & CEO, Sargent
Herb grew up around his family’s construction company, H. E. Sargent, Inc., working as a mechanic’s helper and laborer during his teenage years and eventually joining the company full-time in 1983 as a trainee foreman.
From 1983 through 1991 Herb gained experience in all aspects of earth construction, working through positions of foreman, superintendent, estimator and project manager. Herb left H. E. Sargent in 1991 to start Sargent & Sargent with his brother, Shane. In 2005 Sargent & Sargent acquired H. E. Sargent, then the two were combined as Sargent Corporation, now known simply as Sargent.
In 2013, as a means to ensure ownership succession and management continuity, Herb moved Sargent Corporation and its affiliated companies into the SC Holdings Employee Stock Ownership Plan, wherein the company’s employees became owners of the company. Herb continues in his role as President and CEO.
Herb has enjoyed many roles in community and trade organizations throughout his career. He has two grown children, James and Savannah, a step-son, Colby, and he and his wife, Tristine, call Hampden, Maine their home.
Chadd Wright
Founder, 3 of 7 Project
After overcoming an initial rejection by the US Navy to attend SEAL training, Chadd Wright became the first person in Naval Special Warfare history to undergo elective open heart surgery to remove an asymptomatic pericardial cyst and eventually push forward to flawlessly complete US Navy SEAL Training.
Chadd Wright's Never Quit mentality is solid as a rock and will both inspire and equip you with tools to employ on your own battlefield of life.
Chadd retired in 2019 after a successful career in the U.S. Navy SEAL teams, where he served as a Team Leader on multiple deployments, a SEAL instructor and Master Training Specialist.
Chadd is now a business owner, entrepreneur, competitive Ultrarunner, keynote speaker and husband.
He continues to serve as the personal mindset coach for former professional athletes and high profile entrepreneurs. Chadd also speaks frequently at corporate leadership team events, mastermind groups and athletic events around the world.
Chadd is passionate about sharing his most valuable lessons learned through powerful real life stories.
He relates his knowledge acquired during over a decade of service as a U.S. Navy SEAL and top ultra-athlete to his audience, giving them practical tools to conquer obstacles in personal or professional life.
Sal Frisella
CEO, 1st Phorm International
Sal Frisella is a passionate entrepreneur, speaker, and leader in the health and fitness industry. As the CEO of 1st Phorm International, a renowned sports nutrition company, Sal has dedicated his career to empowering individuals to achieve their fitness goals and live healthier lives. With a deep commitment to excellence and authenticity, he inspires millions through his motivational talks and social media presence. Driven by a desire to make a positive impact, Sal embodies the principles of hard work, resilience, and determination. His relentless pursuit of success has earned him recognition as a visionary leader in the health and wellness community. Through his leadership at 1st Phorm, Sal continues to innovate and elevate the standards of the industry, helping people worldwide transform their bodies and minds. Beyond his role as CEO, Sal is a devoted husband and family man, finding balance between his professional ambitions and personal life. His unwavering dedication to his family, coupled with his entrepreneurial spirit, serves as a testament to his character and values.
Sal is the co-founder of a non-profit organization "30 for the Kids" which feeds, clothes, educates, and houses 46 orphans in Haiti. In addition to 30 for the Kids, he supports many other charities including Brace for Impact, Lift for Life and the Covering House. With a mission to inspire and help others to reach their full potential, Sal Frisella is a true influencer and role model, leading by example and empowering others to live their best lives.
Marcus Sheridan
Communication Expert, Author & Keynote, IMPACT
Marcus Sheridan is a globally recognized communication expert, bestselling author, and captivating keynote speaker specializing in Transformational Communication. With over two decades of industry experience, Marcus has mastered the art of connecting, engaging, and influencing individuals and organizations. His expertise spans the topics of sales, leadership, marketing, AI, personal development, and trust.
Starting his journey after college, Marcus is an entrepreneurial success story. He founded a business that grew into the world's most-trafficked swimming pool company, revolutionizing effective communication in the business landscape. He ignited the They Ask, You Answer movement, empowering businesses to embrace transparency in their marketing and communications. His bestselling book, They Ask, You Answer, has sold over 100,000 copies, and has been translated into several languages. As a dynamic speaker, Marcus engages audiences worldwide, and is known for his real-time interactions that transcend norms, resulting in memorable presentations every time.
Featured in renowned media outlets such as The New York Times and Forbes, Marcus solidifies his role as a trailblazer in communication. His clients include recognizable brands such as Whirlpool, Discover, Bass Pro Shops, Cisco, Microsoft, and many more.
Rob Jones
Leadership Instructor, Echelon Front
Rob Jones is a retired US Marine, combat leader, and now a leadership instructor and speaker with Echelon Front. He spent five years in the Marine Corps, with deployments to both Iraq and Afghanistan. As a Combat Engineer, Rob specialized in finding hidden Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), the enemy’s most deadly weapons. On a mission in July of 2010, while executing an IED sweep, Rob stepped on an IED, which resulted in double above-knee amputations of his legs. He spent the next year and a half in physical therapy before retiring from the Marine Corps in 2011.
Upon his retirement, Rob was forced to adapt to a new way of being a leader. To do this, he turned to the world of sports. In 2012, he competed in the 2012 Paralympic Games in London, England, bringing home a bronze medal in rowing. In 2013, he became the first double above knee amputee to ride a bicycle across the United States, riding 5,181 miles from Bar Harbor, Maine to Camp Pendleton, California. In 2017, he ran 31 marathons in 31 consecutive days in 31 different cities.
Throughout this journey, Rob has relied upon the principles taught at Echelon Front to turn the darkest moment of his life into a life of impact—more meaningful than he ever could have expected. Rob now brings his experience to Echelon Front to help teams of people take Extreme Ownership and overcome the challenges they face in business and in life.
Hamilton Baiden
CEO, Youturn Health
Hamilton Baiden is the CEO of Youturn Health. He oversees the shaping of the company's long-term strategy and leads the pursuit of strategic opportunities that will promote sales growth and customer satisfaction for the organization.
Prior to joining Youturn Health, Hamilton was Executive Vice President of Sales at Avella Specialty Pharmacy where he oversaw the growth of the business from a small regional pharmacy to the largest independent specialty pharmacy in the nation. His knowledge and understanding of the pharmacy industry was developed throughout his professional career, working in various roles for prominent pharmaceutical manufacturing companies, including MedImmune, Serono, Daiichi and Sanofi.
A graduate of The Citadel in Charleston, SC, with strong ties to his community, Hamilton serves on the Board of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and MASK. Hamilton is also in recovery and committed to helping others.
Dave Berke
Chief Development Officer, Echelon Front
Dave Berke is a retired U.S. Marine Corps officer, fighter pilot, ground combat leader, and now a leadership instructor and speaker with Echelon Front, where he serves as Chief Officer of Development and Curriculum. As a F/A-18 pilot, he deployed twice from the USS John C Stennis in support of combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. He spent three years as an Instructor Pilot at TOPGUN where he served as the Training Officer, the senior staff pilot responsible for the conduct of the TOPGUN course.
He then served as an ANGLICO Forward Air Controller supporting the Army’s 1st Armored Division during extensive urban combat operations on the ground in Ramadi, Iraq in 2006. Dave led his supporting arms liaison team on scores of combat missions into the most dangerous neighborhoods and accompanied SEAL Task Unit Bruiser on virtually every major operation in the Battle of Ramadi. He was the only Marine selected to fly the F-22 Raptor having served as an exchange officer at the Air Force’s 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron as the Division Commander. He became the first operational pilot ever to fly and be qualified in the F-35B, serving as the Commanding Officer of the Marine Corps’ first F-35 squadron from 2012-2014.
Upon his retirement from the Marine Corps, Dave joined Echelon Front providing unmatched experience and a unique perspective on combat leadership, analytical decision making, risk mitigation, and creating winning teams.
Jorge Quezada
Chief Inclusionist, Granite Construction
Jorge is Granite Construction’s Vice President of People & Culture/Chief Diversity Officer. In his role, he is responsible for Workforce Compliance and Inclusive Diversity, where he helps the company implement strategies that address Granite’s guiding belief that diverse backgrounds, perspectives, cultures, and experiences enhance creativity and innovation. He brings an innovative approach to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and looks to make a lasting impact at Granite and in the construction industry.
Before joining Granite, Jorge served as Senior Director of Diversity and Inclusion – Leadership Development at Northwestern Mutual and Chief Diversity Officer at Kraft Foods. He spent over 25 years at Allstate Insurance Company and held leadership roles in Human Resources, D&I, Product Operations, Product Development, Marketing, Claims, and Sales.
Throughout the years, Jorge has been active in civic and community organizations, such as the Association of Hispanic Professionals for Education, the Urban League of Orange County (CA), Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Los Angeles, Leadership Greater Chicago, the Latino Policy Forum, the Hispanic Alliance for Career Enhancement (HACE), the Chicago Posse Foundation.
Jorge is a board member at Rancho Cielo in Salinas, CA. He sits on the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Committee for the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and the Associated General Contractors of California. He serves as the Co-Chair of the American Road & Transportation Builders Association’s (ARTBA) Workforce Development Committee and chairs The Conference Board’s (TCB) Diversity Equity & Inclusion Innovators Council. Finally, in 2021, he became the cohost of Construction DEI Talks, a podcast with tools for building Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the construction industry.
Brandye Hendrickson
Deputy Executive Director, Department of Transportation, Texas
As Deputy Executive Director, Ms. Hendrickson is responsible for directing the planning and administration functions of the agency, in addition to government affairs, communications, strategy and innovation, and modal programs. Prior to her appointment as Deputy Executive Director of TxDOT in July of 2021, Brandye worked in Washington D.C. as Deputy Director of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials—AASHTO—and Acting Administrator of the Federal Highway Administration from 2017-2019. She served much of her career in various executive roles within the Indiana Department of Transportation, including leading the agency in a CEO capacity from 2015-2017. Brandye has served on multiple transportation boards and is a recognized leader for her contributions to the transportation industry.
Vince Hafeli
President, Ajax Paving Industries
Dr. Vince Hafeli is the President of Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, a leading asphalt paving and construction services provider.
As an entry-level worker, Vince began his career in the paving and construction industry and has since risen to his current role as a President at Ajax. He has demonstrated exceptional leadership and management skills throughout his career, leading teams to complete complex projects.
Since completing his Doctoral research at the University of South Florida, where he focused on mental health and suicide in the construction industry, Vince has become an international speaker, author, and mental health and suicide advocate dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of mental health and reducing the stigma associated with mental illness. With a personal passion for mental health and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by those struggling with mental health issues, Vince has become a leading voice in the advocacy community.
He has dedicated his time and resources to promoting mental health awareness and reducing the stigma associated with mental illness. He works with organizations and advocacy groups to help break down the barriers preventing people from seeking mental health help.
As a speaker, Vince is known for his thought-provoking and impactful keynote talks on mental health and suicide prevention.
Dr. Geoff Smart
Chairman & Founder, ghSMART
Geoff Smart is the #1 thought leader on the #1 topic in business. He is Chairman & Founder of ghSMART, a leadership consulting firm that serves Fortune 500 CEOs and boards, billionaire entrepreneurs, and heads of state.
He is the New York Times bestselling author of Who, Leadocracy, and Power Score: Your Formula for Leadership Success. Geoff and his colleagues donate hundreds of hours per year to advise leaders in Education, Public Health, and Government. He is the Founder of two 501c3 not-for-profit organizations: SMARTKids Leadership Program® and The Leaders Initiative®.
Jeff McLean
President, ghSMART
As President of ghSMART, Jeff is responsible for leading the strategic direction of the firm, maintaining and improving our world-class culture, supporting our team, and developing client solutions. In 2023, ghSMART was awarded an unprecedented 14 #1 rankings in the Vault study of “Best Consulting Firms to Work For,” including Best Boutique Firm and a #4 ranking in the Vault Consulting 50 of the industry’s best firms. He continues to serve clients, helping to solve their most critical business leadership challenges.
Prior to joining ghSMART, Jeff was Director of Strategic Initiatives and Asset Management for a large privately-held family office with operating businesses in multiple industries. Previously, he served as a Senior Policy Advisor and White House Fellow in the White House Office of American Innovation, where he helped lead nationally impactful initiatives including government technology modernization, prison reform, and future workforce development.
Earlier in his career, Jeff served as a fighter pilot and test pilot in the U.S. Navy, where he completed three deployments aboard aircraft carriers, including 51 combat missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. As a Fulbright Scholar and Truman Scholar, Jeff earned a degree in philosophy, politics, and economics from Oxford University. He also earned an MBA from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor of Science degree from the U.S. Naval Academy. He lives near Milwaukee, Wisconsin with his wife and three children.
Tim Schurrer
CEO, David Novak Leadership
Tim is the author of The Secret Society of Success and host of the Build a Winning Team podcast, where he challenges people to consider “helping others win” as the North Star for how they should live and lead.
He’s also the CEO of David Novak Leadership, a 501(c)(3) private operating foundation whose mission is to make the world a better place by developing better leaders at every stage of life. As the CEO of Yum! Brands (KFC, Taco Bell, Pizza Hut), David Novak grew the business from $4 billion to $32 billion and he did it by creating a culture of recognition where every employee felt seen and valued for what they contributed. And now, these leadership lessons are being taught in companies and to students all over the world through the nonprofit David has entrusted Tim to lead.
Early in his career, Tim spent a decade launching two brands — StoryBrand and Business Made Simple — as COO alongside New York Times bestselling author Donald Miller. And before that, he worked at TOMS and Apple Inc.
Tim lives in Nashville, Tennessee, with his wife, Katie, and their two kids.
Rich Jones
Chief Clinical Officer, Youturn Health
Richard Jones is an experienced therapist, clinician, and healthcare entrepreneur operating primarily in the behavioral health space. Richard has wide-ranging professional experience across nearly all behavioral health domains. This includes mental health, substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, and intellectual disabilities. He has over 20 years’ management experience and has been instrumental in the launch and rebuild of multiple programs nationwide. Richard is passionate about providing quality care and supporting people in need. He has been the founding CEO of two non-profit organizations and two for-profit businesses dedicated to disrupting the behavioral health space for the betterment of people in need.
Will Grumke
Director of Education 1st Phorm International
Austin Davis
Personal Trainer and Sports Nutrition Specialist 1st Phorm International
Austin is a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Certified Sports Nutrition Specialist. He developed a passion for fitness through his time playing and coaching football. In only 7 years he coached over 30 high school players to the Division 1 level, as well as multiple players who have gone on to play in the NFL.
While coaching, he also worked an entry level position at Supplement Superstores where he helped hundreds of people local to St. Louis earn results, and improve their quality of life. After 4 years working in the retail environment he moved to 1st Phorm HQ where he has helped thousands more through the 1st Phorm App learn, and implement the education needed to look, feel and perform their very best. Currently Austin helps coach and develop the Team of Advisors at 1st Phorm HQ.
Ryan Hamilton
Comedian
Ryan’s one-hour Netflix stand-up special, Happy Face, has been reviewed as “the special you can’t watch enough times.” This has been followed by a wealth of television appearances and a non-stop headlining tour. Armed with the unique perspective of
growing up in rural Idaho to become a favorite in the New York stand-up comedy scene, he’s one-of-a-kind. He’s been named one of Rolling Stone’s Five Comics to Watch; and his recent appearances include The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, and Conan, as well as opening spots for Jerry Seinfeld and Jim Gaffigan.
Ken Simonson
Chief Economist, Associated General Contractors of America
Ken Simonson has been Chief Economist for the Associated General Contractors of America, the leading construction trade association, since 2001. He provides insight into the economy and what it implies for construction and related industries through frequent media interviews, presentations, and the Data DIGest, his weekly one-page e-newsletter that goes to more than 20,000 subscribers.
Ken has over 40 years of experience analyzing, advocating, and communicating about economic and tax issues. He currently serves as an advisor to the Census Bureau’s construction data re-engineering initiative. He is a Fellow and past president of the National Association for Business Economics, and he is co-director of the Tax Economists Forum, a professional meeting group he co-founded in 1982.
Ken has a BA in economics from the University of Chicago, and an MA in economics from Northwestern University.
Daniel Fisher
Senior Vice President, Government & External Affairs, Associated Equipment Distributors
Daniel B. Fisher is Associated Equipment Distributors’ (AED) senior vice president of government and external affairs. In this role, Fisher directs the association’s Washington, D.C.-based office and manages all aspects of AED’s advocacy and political programs, including serving as the association’s chief lobbyist and Treasurer of AED PAC. Fisher supervises the association’s state government affairs program and Canadian public policy efforts. He also oversees AED’s regional manager team.
Prior to joining AED, Fisher was Senior Managing Associate at a boutique law firm, Obadal, Filler, MacLeod & Klein (OFMK). At OFMK, he represented trade association and corporate clients, including AED, before Congress and the administration on a range of public policy matters.
Fisher began his career on Capitol Hill, where he worked as a Senate Judiciary Committee counsel for Sen. Arlen Specter (Pa.). He was on the legal team that managed the confirmation of two U.S. Supreme Court Justices, led congressional investigations, and handled a legislative portfolio that included litigation, products liability, and medical malpractice reform issues.
Fisher received a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and public policy studies, magna cum laude, from St. Mary’s College of Maryland and was captain of the varsity baseball team his junior and senior years. He also has a law degree from George Mason University’s Antonin Scalia Law School and is a member of the District of Columbia Bar Association.
Koula Callahan
Head of Marketing & Content, David Novak Leadership
Koula Callahan serves as the Head of Content and Marketing for David Novak Leadership and loves doing all she can to help the organization pursue its mission of making the world a better place by developing better leaders. She loves managing a high performing team that accomplishes the organization’s big goals, together.
Prior to David Novak Leadership, Koula spent 6 years growing StoryBrand, a brand messaging company that has helped thousands of businesses clarify their marketing message to grow their business. At StoryBrand, Koula was responsible for creating content, overseeing marketing campaigns and launching products that helped build a multi-million dollar business.
Whether she’s speaking at a conference, interviewing a thought leader on a podcast or creating a product launch campaign, Koula works with expertise and passion and loves to infuse fun into the work she does with her team. Koula is a graduate of Vanderbilt University and spends most of her free time traveling to the beach, playing golf or teaching yoga as a 200-hour RYT.
Amy Porter
Executive Partner, Dale Carnegie of Central Indiana
• 18+ year experience
• Foster human connection.
• Public Speaker / Keynote Speaker
• Certified coach, strategy thought leader, and stakeholder for
corporations, executives, teams, individuals, and students.
• Design customizable training specific to organizational outcomes.
• Impact overall retention, profitability, and productivity.
• Customer experience, support, and organizational impact.
• Provide accountability through application of strategies & process.
Chris Stricklin
President, Dunn University
Chris “Elroy” Stricklin is a 3-time best-selling leadership author, a highly sought after motivational keynote speaker and a Combat-Proven Senior Military leader retiring after 23 years of service which culminated with CEO-Level leadership of a 7,000-person strong, $7B worldwide organization. His unique leadership style & skill have afforded him roles as a Business Management Consultant with Fortune 500 businesses, including both presentations and publications before millions of business employees. He now serves as the President of Dunn University, and the Governor of Alabama on her Workforce Development Board, molding the landscape of our current and future workforce.
Unique experience as a U.S.A.F. Thunderbird Solo coupled with CEO-Level duties and Pentagon-level strategic management of critical Air Force resources valued at $840B, multiple N.A.T.O. assignments, White House and DARPA fellowships, and command-experience in the United States Air Force allow his unique synthesis of speaking, following, leading, management, negotiations, continuous improvement and positive change.
A combat-decorated Fighter Pilot, Chris is also a Certified Manager with degrees in Economics, Financial Planning, Management, Real Estate, Strategic Leadership Studies and Operational Art and Science. He and his wife, Terri, have 4 children.
Pastor Daron Earlewine
Author & Pastor
Daron Earlewine is a passionate, catalytic, influential, captivating dreamer. He serves as an author, speaker, podcast host and entrepreneur. His mission is to help people find passion, purpose and peace. Daron has helped thousands of individuals move from feeling insignificant to understanding their worth and creating their future through his online and live workshops. Daron’s first book The Death of a Dream was published in October 2022. Daron uses his honesty, humor and wit in the book to help resurrect your purpose when life doesn’t go as planned. Daron and his wife Julie have been married twenty-two years and have three teenage sons.
Jonathan Campbell
Co-CEO Campbell Companies
Jonathan Campbell is the Co-CEO of Campbell Companies which is headquartered in
Salt Lake City, Utah. The company operates a diverse portfolio of distribution and
manufacturing businesses that serve the construction, mining, and energy sectors across
the Western United States. Jonathan holds a Bachelor's degree in Finance and an MBA
from the David Eccles School of Business at the University of Utah.
In addition to his leadership role, Jonathan is an active board member for several
organizations, including BuildWitt, the Utah Mining Association, the Utah Foundation,
and the Eccles Advisory Board.
Outside of his professional commitments, Jonathan enjoys spending quality time with his
wife, Loryn, and their three sons, Kason, Royal, and River. His personal interests include
traveling, fly fishing, and endurance racing.
Randy Blount
CFO/CPO BuildWitt
Randy Blount entered the construction industry at age 17 working for his family contracting business. He was thrust into a leadership role at age 21 when a cancer diagnosis sidelined his father from the company. Taking lessons from a number of early mistakes, Randy maintained the business until his father’s passing, at which time he purchased the company and took over management of daily operations.
Over the next ten years, Randy worked with his team to implement key operational systems which helped successfully grow Blount Contracting from $3.5 million to $40 million in annual revenue. In 2020, he sold the business and remained closely involved as a shareholder, helping to grow annual revenue to $100 million while maintaining profitability well above industry averages over the next two years. Randy now serves as Chief Financial and Strategy Officer of BuildWitt, where he applies his finance education and career-long construction experience to help drive the organization towards its mission of making the Dirt World a better place.
Bill Cope
VP Corporate Sales AGTEK
William Cope is Vice President of Corporate Accounts at AGTEK, part of Hexagon’s Geosystems division. He is responsible for managing USA national key accounts for both building and infrastructure sectors. Working with a VIP team, William brings together combined solutions from the Geosystems Hexagon Building Solutions and Heavy Construction Divisions to develop strategic partnerships. He also oversees and mentors the direct sales team on the West Coast. In addition, William manages an international sales team that works hand-in-hand with other Hexagon divisions. Previously, he served in various positions at AGTEK including Southeast Sales Rep, Southwest Sales Rep, and Vice President of Marketing. He studied Business and Marketing at Truckee Meadows Community College and has over 37 years of experience serving the worldwide heavy civil construction industry, working with contractors, manufacturers, dealers, universities, and government agencies alike.
Allen Pregram
VP Sales AGTEK
Allen Pegram is the Vice President of Sales at AGTEK Development Company, Inc., where he has worked for over 30 years. In his current role since 2011, he oversees all marketing and sales activities, including managing regional sales managers, marketing strategy, market analysis, sales reporting, and budget management. He previously served as National Sales Manager and Regional Sales Representative within AGTEK. Before joining AGTEK, he worked on construction projects at Disney's EPCOT and Orlando International Airport and is a licensed Class A General Contractor in Florida. He holds an MS from Duke University, an MBA from the University of Miami, and a BS from Wake Forest University.
Alex Judd
Author Path for Growth
Alex is the Founder of Path for Growth, a business that exists to help impact-driven leaders step into who they were created to be SO THAT others benefit and God is glorified.
Since its launch 4 years ago, Path for Growth has served hundreds of leaders through 1:1 Executive Coaching, developed a thriving virtual community of business owners, presented value-based team training curriculum to organizations around the country, and hired 8 additional team members.
Prior to launching Path for Growth, Alex was the Host of Dave Ramsey's nationally recognized EntreLeadership Podcast and Leadership Summit. In that role, he had the opportunity to interview and learn from world-class leaders like John Maxwell, Simon Sinek, Sarah Blakely, Craig Groeschel, and Jocko Willink.
Alex is an accomplished endurance athlete who has finished 2 Ironman Triathlons, 27 Marathons, and two 50-Mile Ultra-Marathons.
Alex lives in Phoenix, Arizona with his wife Aspen and their daughter Lily.
Above all else, Alex and Aspen believe in the goodness of Jesus Christ and strive to follow His perfect example of truth, grace, service, and love in their life.
Darrin Moir
Owner/Creative Director Ideon Gear
After training and working in the education sector, Darrin left academics to become a brand development strategist and designer, eventually co-founding Ideon Gear, a workforce apparel company, in 2018. He has spent the last decade helping contractors hone their brands and getting involved with efforts to attract and retain good talent in the construction industry. One important rule he lives by: effective board meetings require fresh snow and a ski lift pass, no PowerPoint allowed.
Freddy Lund
Owner Tenstar
The need for more people is a crucial challenge for the construction industry. Simulation is a game changer that attracts the younger generation and develops the existing ones to remain. With the latest technology, the simulators are almost as realistic as they can get to train from the basics to advanced teamwork with a virtual network of users. Perfect for practicing the asphalt paving process, learning safety concepts for trench boxes, and efficient ways of working with tilt rotators. All in a safe and environmentally friendly environment.
Justin Azbill
Director – National Health and Safety Strategy Milwaukee Tool Company
Justin Azbill has been in the safety profession since the mid-1990’s following his service in the United States Marine Corps. He was appointed Director - National Health and Safety Strategy at Milwaukee Tool in July 2021, and is responsible for directing the design, implementation, and maintenance of health and safety programs. Mr. Azbill’s role is strategic and provides oversight to ensure compliance with all applicable laws to exceed safety regulations.
Justin has over 29 years of experience in Safety and Risk Management, having held key leadership roles with Kiewit Power, Suffolk Construction, Cannistraro, and Callahan Construction. Throughout his career, Mr. Azbill has created a reputation of success by leveraging a collaborative leadership style which has helped him achieve consistent industry-leading results and build successful partnerships that continue to impact the construction industry. He is best known for his ability to gain buy-in from operational teams and his passion as a selfless thought leader.
Mr. Azbill has led companies to noticeable safety improvements and increased engagement in incident prevention, fostering a positive safety culture. Evident through his reduction of claims, incidents, and lost time, as well as increased involvement of subcontractor engagement, he has been honored with notable awards, including the OSHA VPPP Star award in 2012 (the first time a VPPP Star award was awarded to a construction job in Region 1), MCAA Milwaukee Tool Safety Professional Award, ESGR DOD Patriot Award, Safety Excellence Award by the NSC, and STEP Award by the ABC.
Mr. Azbill holds several accredited safety certifications and licenses and attended Johnson County Community College, the University of Kansas, Thomas Edison University, and is currently working on his postgraduate degree in Strategic Leadership. Mr. Azbill is a sitting member on numerous safety advisory committee’s and serves as the ISEA Education Committee Chair and is a Board of Trustees member Director at Large for the Construction Industry Alliance of Suicide Prevention.
Mark Payne
Director of Training and Development Artera North Gas
Mark Payne is the Director of Training and Development for Artera North Gas, overseeing training initiatives at The DDS Companies and Feeney Brothers Utility Services. Since joining The DDS Companies in 2021 as a Training Coordinator, Mark has advanced to his current role in March 2023, and in April 2024, he expanded his responsibilities to lead the training team at Feeney Brothers Utility Services.
Prior to his current position, Mark served as an Assistant Professor and Curriculum Coordinator for the Alfred State College Heavy Equipment Operations Program. During his tenure, he was actively involved in the Education Foundation of Alfred, where he served on the board of directors. Mark also led the Alfred State Disaster Relief Team, reflecting his commitment to both education and community service.
Mark's career has been marked by a steadfast dedication to student success, particularly within the trades. As Chair of the Precision Heavy Equipment Operations contest for the New York State chapter of SkillsUSA, he continues to champion the development of future professionals. His passion for education extends beyond the classroom, as he frequently visits schools, participates in career fairs, and contributes to curriculum advisory boards across New York State.
Mark is supported by his devoted wife of 24 years, Sarah, and their two sons, Nathan and Riley. His family shares his commitment to excellence and community, providing a strong foundation for his professional endeavors.
Max Vachon
Product Manager BuildWitt
Max is a Product Manager at BuildWitt, where he helps drive the development of innovative products aimed at advancing the horizontal construction industry. Before joining BuildWitt, Max worked in civil construction, starting at an earthwork and concrete subcontractor in Flagstaff, Arizona, and later continuing his career with Blount Contracting in Phoenix. Outside of work, Max enjoys exploring Arizona with his family.
Chris Plappart
Vice President, General Contracting Milwaukee
several top-tier Leadership roles within the Milwaukee Tool organization, constantly expanding each vertical that he has led, building on the Milwaukee Tool values of high performance and empowering his team members as leaders. In 2023, Chris took on the role of Vice President of General Contracting JSS, where he currently leads one of the highest-performing teams in the Milwaukee Tool organization.
Randy Gravitt
CEO Lead Every Day
Randy Gravitt is an author, speaker, and executive coach who encourages leaders to reach
their potential. Randy began his career working in education, both as a teacher and coach,
before moving to Georgia, where he served for nearly two decades at one of the largest
churches in the Atlanta area.
In 2014, Randy founded InteGREAT Leadership, which eventually became Lead Every Day. He
currently serves as Lead Every Day’s CEO (chief encouragement officer), leading a team of
coaches and consultants who work with high-performance leaders, organizations, and teams
around the world.
As a speaker, Randy delivers keynotes and training workshops on the topics of leadership,
team building, organizational effectiveness, and peak performance. The organizations he
has helped include Chick-fil-A, Grand Hyatt, Kroger, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and
the WinShape Foundation. Additionally, Randy has served as one of the leadership coaches
for the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Buffalo Bills organizations.
Randy has authored Winning Begins at Home, and coauthored two books with Dan Webster,
Finding Your Way and Unstuck. These titles are aimed at helping leaders discover their passion
and live fully engaged lives. Randy also encourages and equips leaders to win at work and
home through the Lead Every Day Show with best-selling author Mark Miller.
Randy and his wife, Laura, have been married thirty-seven years and live in Sharpsburg,
Georgia, where they raised their four daughters. Outside of work, Randy loves being a girl
dad, hanging out with his grandkids, playing golf, reading, and sitting on his back porch..
Tom Roberts
Vice President Garney
As Vice President, Tom manages the company’s accounting and financial reporting, tax compliance, banking, and administration of Garney’s employee stock ownership plan (ESOP).
After graduating from the University of Northern Iowa in 1990 with a degree in accounting, Tom obtained his CPA license soon after. He spent 12 years in public accounting with firms in Des Moines and Kansas City before spending 10 years as CFO of a Kansas City contractor. Tom joined Garney in 2012 as Director of Financial Reporting and was promoted to Vice President in 2023.
Tom is Chair of Garney’s ESOP Committee, serves as an ESOP Trustee, and is on the Board of Directors and Risk Management Council. He is also actively involved in ESCA. He’s recognized for his efforts in optimizing and advocating for Garney’s strong ESOP and its benefits, while also educating employees on the value it provides to them and their families.
Tony Amoroso
Regional Sales Manager Portwest
Tony Amoroso serves as Regional Sales Manager for Portwest USA. He is a technical sales expert with 20 years of experience in the safety/PPE and industrial sectors. Prior to his current role, Tony was founder and CEO of his own company which focused on MRO and safety solutions for public utilities and the offshore drilling industry.
Tony is a proud father of three children and is passionate about his current role in business development and consultative sales, physical fitness, and international soccer.
Wally Adamchik
Speaker FireStarter
Wally Adamchik is dedicated to making better construction leaders.
- In his youth, he worked with his father and brother in construction in NYC.
- His mother was the first woman to referee a basketball game at Madison Square Garden.
- At the University of Notre Dame, Wally was the mascot—that’s right, he was the Leprechaun.
- As an Officer of Marines, Wally deployed throughout the world. In tanks and then Cobra attack helicopters, He served in operations and maintenance roles.
- MBA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
- President of FireStarter Speaking and Consulting. A national construction leadership consulting firm providing speaking, coaching and consulting to those in and around construction.
- Author of No Yelling: The Nine Secrets of Marine Corps Leadership You Must Know to Win in Business. And of Construction Leadership from A to Z; 26 words to lead by
- Certified Speaking Professional, Certified Management Consultant.
- Father of two college athletes and married for 30 years.
When you add all that up you get an honest expert who understands the multi-national as well as he does the family business and is able to modify his approach to make an impact in both. Since 2003 he has supported some of the most notable firms in the construction industry and is a regular presenter at industry gatherings. Wally delivers usable ideas and insights that you can put to use the minute you get back to work.
Tim Paulson
Co-CEO Emery Sapp Construction
Tim Paulson is an energetic and dedicated leader who serves on the Board of Directors for Emery Sapp Construction, a 100% employee owned civil construction enterprise. Laser focused on operational excellence, team growth and world-class work, Paulson sets the tone for the firm’s four operating brands—Emery Sapp & Sons, Achen-Gardner Construction, Rummel Construction, Premier Testing Laboratories—ten offices and 2,600 employee-owners who construct infrastructure across the country. Since joining the company to lead the firm’s Kansas City operations in 2005, Paulson has driven many key initiatives for the organization ranging from M&A strategy to ESOP sustainability.
Caitlyn Cook
VP, Marketing Emery Sapp Construction
Marcus Sheridan is a globally recognized communication expert, bestselling author, and captivating keynote speaker specializing in Transformational...
Read MoreSEE MARCUS' SCHEDULE
The Most Trusted Brand:
How to Create an Endless Stream of Great Customers, Qualified Recruits, and Elevate the Dirt World Along the Way
Tuesday, November 5, 2024
8:50 AM - 9:40 AM
Hamilton Baiden is the CEO of Youturn Health. He oversees the shaping of the company's long-term strategy and leads the pursuit of strategic...
Read MoreSEE HAMILTON’S SCHEDULE
Safety on the Inside:
How to Identify and Effectively Support Behavioral Health in the Construction Industry
Tuesday, November 5, 2024
10:40 AM - 11:30 AM
Dave Berke is a retired U.S. Marine Corps officer, fighter pilot, ground combat leader, and now a leadership instructor and speaker with Echelon...
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Iterative Decision-Making
Wednesday, November 6, 2024
10:15 AM - 12:00 PM
Jorge is Granite Construction’s Vice President of People & Culture/Chief Diversity Officer. In his role, he is responsible for Workforce Compliance...
Read MoreSEE JORGE’S SCHEDULE
Breaking Ground:
On Inclusive Diversity for the Construction Industry
Monday, November 4, 2024
2:00 PM - 2:55 PM
As Deputy Executive Director, Ms. Hendrickson is responsible for directing the planning and administration functions of the agency, in addition to...
Read MoreSEE BRANDYE’S SCHEDULE
What it Takes to Deliver a Texas-sized Program
Tuesday, November 5, 2024
10:10 AM - 10:40 AM
Dr. Vince Hafeli is the President of Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, a leading asphalt paving and construction services provider.
As an...
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Safety on the Inside:
How to Identify and Effectively Support Behavioral Health in the Construction Industry
Tuesday, November 5, 2024
10:40 AM - 11:30 AM
Tim is the author of The Secret Society of Success and host of the Build a Winning Team podcast, where he challenges people to consider “helping...
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Redefining Success for Your Business
Tuesday, November 5, 2024
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Richard Jones is an experienced therapist, clinician, and healthcare entrepreneur operating primarily in the behavioral health space. Richard has...
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How to Implement a Mental Health Program
Monday, November 4, 2024
9:00 AM - 9:55 AM
Will Grumke
Director of Education 1st Phorm International
SEE WILL'S SCHEDULE
3 Simple Things to Improve Personal Health & Business Performance
Monday, November 4, 2024
10:00 AM - 10:55 AM
Austin Davis
Personal Trainer and Sports Nutrition Specialist 1st Phorm International
Austin is a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Certified Sports Nutrition Specialist. He developed a passion for fitness through his time playing...
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3 Simple Things to Improve Personal Health & Business Performance
Monday, November 4, 2024
10:00 AM - 10:55 AM
Ken Simonson has been Chief Economist for the Associated General Contractors of America, the leading construction trade association, since 2001. He...
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Will Construction Thrive or Dive in '25?
Wednesday, November 6, 2024
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM
Daniel B. Fisher is Associated Equipment Distributors’ (AED) senior vice president of government and external affairs. In this role, Fisher directs...
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Election 2024:
What We Know and What it Means for Equipment Dealers and the Broader Construction Industry
Wednesday, November 6, 2024
8:30 AM - 9:00 AM
Koula Callahan serves as the Head of Content and Marketing for David Novak Leadership and loves doing all she can to help the organization pursue its...
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The Power of Purposeful Recognition
Monday, November 4, 2024
1:00 PM - 1:55 PM
• 18+ year experience• Foster human connection.• Public Speaker / Keynote Speaker• Certified coach, strategy thought leader, and stakeholder for...
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How to Build a People-Focused Development Program
Monday, November 4, 2024
11:00 AM - 11:55 AM
Daron Earlewine is a passionate, catalytic, influential, captivating dreamer. He serves as an author, speaker, podcast host and entrepreneur. His...
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God's Four Foundations for Building your Purpose
Tuesday, November 5, 2024
6:00 AM - 6:45 AM
Bill Cope
VP Corporate Sales AGTEK
William Cope is Vice President of Corporate Accounts at AGTEK, part of Hexagon’s Geosystems division. He is responsible for managing USA national key...
Read MoreAllen Pregram
VP Sales AGTEK
Allen Pegram is the Vice President of Sales at AGTEK Development Company, Inc., where he has worked for over 30 years. In his current role since...
Read MoreAlex Judd
Author Path for Growth
Alex is the Founder of Path for Growth, a business that exists to help impact-driven leaders step into who they were created to be SO THAT others...
Read MoreDarrin Moir
Owner/Creative Director Ideon Gear
After training and working in the education sector, Darrin left academics to become a brand development strategist and designer, eventually...
Read MoreFreddy Lund
Owner Tenstar
The need for more people is a crucial challenge for the construction industry. Simulation is a game changer that attracts the younger generation and...
Read MoreJustin Azbill
Director – National Health and Safety Strategy Milwaukee Tool Company
Justin Azbill has been in the safety profession since the mid-1990’s following his service in the United States Marine Corps. He was appointed...
Read MoreMark Payne
Director of Training and Development Artera North Gas
Mark Payne is the Director of Training and Development for Artera North Gas, overseeing training initiatives at The DDS Companies and Feeney Brothers...
Read MoreMax Vachon
Product Manager BuildWitt
Max is a Product Manager at BuildWitt, where he helps drive the development of innovative products aimed at advancing the horizontal construction...
Read MoreChris Plappart
Vice President, General Contracting Milwaukee
Randy Gravitt
CEO Lead Every Day
Randy Gravitt is an author, speaker, and executive coach who encourages leaders to reachtheir potential. Randy began his career working in education,...
Read MoreTom Roberts
Vice President Garney
As Vice President, Tom manages the company’s accounting and financial reporting, tax compliance, banking, and administration of Garney’s employee...
Read MoreTony Amoroso
Regional Sales Manager Portwest
Tony Amoroso serves as Regional Sales Manager for Portwest USA. He is a technical sales expert with 20 years of experience in the safety/PPE and...
Read MoreWally Adamchik
Speaker FireStarter
Wally Adamchik is dedicated to making better construction leaders.
- In his youth, he worked with his father and brother in construction in NYC.
- His...
Tim Paulson
Co-CEO Emery Sapp Construction
Tim Paulson is an energetic and dedicated leader who serves on the Board of Directors for Emery Sapp Construction, a 100% employee owned civil...
Read MoreCaitlyn Cook
VP, Marketing Emery Sapp Construction
MORE SPEAKERS TO BE ANNOUNCED!
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