In a world of constant disruption and evolving A/E/C dynamics, it’s not enough to keep up, you have to LEVEL UP. This high-impact session challenges marketing and BD professionals to rethink how they show up and speak up by tapping into the power of personal brand. 

You’ll learn how to baseline your credibility, build influence, and become a strategic voice inside your firm because marketers who lead with clarity and confidence help shape the culture of tomorrow. From defining your KPIs to shifting how others perceive your value, we’ll give you the tools to move from task-doer to trusted advisor. 

This isn’t about being loud—it’s about being unforgettable.
If your firm’s culture is ready for a glow-up, it starts with you.

Learning Objectives: 

How:

speakers

Laura McDonald, CPSM: As a Senior Marketing Business Partner and Senior Associate, Laura helps Terracon's Eastern Operating Group align marketing efforts to win strategic projects by providing marketing support and consulting. With over 16 years of experience in the A/E/C industry, she leverages her expertise to elevate marketing’s role into business practices. Additionally, she is passionate about mentoring and sharing her personal insights and industry best practices with other marketing professionals, both inside her firm and within the SMPS network. Laura is a past president of SMPS Atlanta and a member of the Past Presidents Council.

Eric Keens, CPSM: Eric is a seasoned marketing professional with 25 years of experience in the A/E/C industry. He began his career at a small engineering firm, where he earned his Certified Professional Services Marketer (CPSM) designation. Throughout his career, Eric has witnessed the transformation of marketing strategies—from the simplicity of handshakes and sketches to the complexity of comprehensive design proposals and software. His expertise has grown to include marketing architectural design and construction services across multiple markets.

With a deep understanding of the pursuit process, Eric excels in research, pre-positioning, proposal strategy and development, and shortlist presentations. Passionate about personal and professional growth, he serves as SMPS Atlanta’s Director of Chapter Development, managing the mentor/protégé program and continuing education scholarships. 

Eric is a long-standing member of the Past Presidents Council and SMPS Atlanta and a board member of SPIKE Studio, an organization dedicated to mentoring and educating youth to foster creativity and increase diversity in the architecture, engineering, and construction professions. His commitment to inspiring and empowering others continues to leave a meaningful impact on the industry and its future leaders.

 event champions