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Join MCCEI at the highly anticipated “Image of the Industry” symposium, a dynamic event dedicated to transforming the perception of the construction industry. This thought-provoking symposium brings together industry thought leaders, professionals, and stakeholders for a day of collaborative exploration, innovative solutions, and inspiring discussions. Together, we will delve into the narratives surrounding careers in construction and chart a path towards reshaping the industry’s image to attract top talent.

This engaging symposium features a comprehensive agenda that covers key topics essential to industry advancement. Attendees will gain valuable insights into effective marketing and communication strategies during the session on “Telling Stories and Showing Impact: Marketing and Communications in the Construction Industry.” Additionally, the event will address critical issues such as supporting employees affected by opioid addiction, uplifting youth through apprenticeship programs, and empowering women in construction through sponsorship and mentorship initiatives. By attending the “Image of the Industry” symposium, participants will be equipped with actionable takeaways, forge valuable connections, and contribute to the ongoing transformation of the construction industry into a vibrant and inclusive sector.

Our Agenda

Wednesday, February 28, 2024

Before our Symposium panels begin, this is your chance to network with fellow educators or members of the industry and to discuss workforce needs.

The Maryland Center for Construction Education & Innovation will give opening remarks, ways to get involved with MCCEI programs, and we’ll discuss how our programs are shaping the industry.

The Greater Baltimore Committee’s Yvette Diamond and UMD CEE Chair Dr. Nii Attoh-Okine will lead our welcome.

Hear from an industry leader on how to create a healthy and safe work environment.

Jessica Bunting, MPH – Presenter – The Center for Construction Research and Training
Rebekah Rafferty – Panelist – DPR Construction

Building your workforce is more than just hiring. Inspire passion in your employees. ACE Mentor, Apprenticeships, and Internships are some ways the industry is building their own pipeline and educating the future workforce.

Darius Johnson – Moderator – ACE Mentor
Grant Shmelzer – Panelist – IEC Chesapeake
Bonnie Cronin – Panelist – Harkins Builders 
Neil Schulman – Panelist – University of Maryland 
Minah Woo – Panelist – Howard Community College

Thibault Manekin (Partner, Seawall) delivers the keynote address about how construction shapes the world around us.

Thibault Manekin – Keynote Speaker – Seawall

Construction innovation was born out of necessity to fit the needs of tomorrow. This panel outlines ways to leverage innovative techniques in hiring and recruiting.

Michael Riegel – Moderator – AEC Business Strategies
Craig Davis – Panelist – DPR Construction
Ellie Giles – Panelist – Virtual Apprentice
Elyse Korsyn – Panelist – The Superhero Project INC

DEI efforts are making a measurable difference in culture, recruiting, and the bottom line. A diverse company is 33% more successful than their competitors and our panel discuss why.

Dr. Estelle Marie-Montgomery – Moderator – Globaleyez Consulting
Kristen Bucher – Panelist – BG&E
Manny Sampson – Panelist – Turner Construction Company
Jolsna Thomas – Panelist – Rosendin
Morgan Traynor – Panelist – Procore

Network with colleagues and mingle with educators, industry professionals, or students before our Pathway Awards.

During the 2022 Pathway Awards, MCCEI will celebrate the amazing work in the built environment, hand out awards to students, industry leaders, and organizations and scholarships to future members of the workforce.

Thanks to our Symposium Sponsor

Join us in-person on February 28th in a celebration of the amazing work being done in Maryland to promote career pathways in the built environment. 

The Pathway Awards were created to recognize all the people, companies, and partners in the AEC industry who embody of the values of MCCEI and who have championed workforce development initiatives in the built environment in the past year.

Maryland Center for Construction Education & Innovation