What does magic and construction have in common? Much like construction, magic requires meticulous planning, attention to detail, and precise execution. Chris will be sharing his journey of being at the right place at the right time, opening his mind to new opportunities, and looking outside the box. By demonstrating his original magical creations, he will seamlessly weave a narrative about the importance of creativity, problem-solving, and recognizing how “One Moment” can change everything. Chris shows the power of trusting your intuition and understanding human behavior, essential skills in a male-populated field. Through his performance, he can inspire confidence, foster a sense of empowerment, and encourage women to embrace their role in shaping the built environment
Chris Michael's performances are the ultimate in entertainment. He is focused on impactful moments for you.
The White House invited Chris perform for Diplomats at the President’s Private Guest House
The FBI used Chris to change intrepid independent thinkers into a positive bonded team
GE used Chris to energize a group of sales people so they were ready for growth
Jennifer Bardot Founder, Owner, Author, Publisher G.R.I.T. Collection Company
Jennifer Bardot, MA, MS, is a publisher & author of the Deconstructing GRIT Collection and Owning Your G.R.I.T.—five international bestselling anthologies available at Target and Walmart, Barnes & Noble, and Amazon. She is featured on the cover of St. Louis Small Business Monthly as 2021’s Top 100 Persons to Know to Help Grow your business and was awarded the President's Circle by Enterprise Bank &
Trust, Received Titan 100 in 2024, and has been seen on NBC, ABC, CNN, Fox2 and other media Platforms. Founder of the GRIT Community—a free women’s leadership group over 1k members—Jennifer holds a BA & Dual Master degrees, certificates in the Dare to Lead Training by Brené Brown, Women in Leadership , and Leadership St. Louis by Focus St. Louis. She serves as a mentor for Lindenwood University, St. Louis University, Washington University, and Fontbonne University. Is the Leukoma & leproma Society visionary in 2024. Jennifer is passionate about supporting business owners an leaders and is a dedicated mother to three boys, and outdoor adrenaline adventurer
Presentation Title – Prefabricated Land Bridge and Wildlife Crossing Solutions
Learning Objectives: Understand the benefits of buried bridges for land bridges and wildlife crossings Examine the considerations that go into feasibility, planning and design of land bridges and wildlife crossings Review case studies of land bridge and wildlife crossing projects
Bio Kim is the Southern Illinois and Eastern Missouri Bridge Consultant for Contech Engineered Solutions. She graduated from the University of Missouri - Rolla with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. Prior to joining Contech, Kim was an engineering consultant specializing in construction oversight and custom metal fabrication. Kim is responsible for providing technical knowledge and consultative solution development to owners, engineers, and contractors in the civil infrastructure industry.
Kelli Paskert Chief Operating Officer
Presentation Title – Chapter Tools for Success
Bio Kelli Paskert is a highly accomplished professional with over a decade of experience in the construction industry, excelling in leadership roles across various organizations. Currently serving as the Chief Operating Officer at Skold Companies, Kelli oversees strategic operations and drives business growth initiatives for the organization.
In addition to her role at Skold Companies, Kelli is involved in numerous industry associations and community initiatives. She has been an active member of the Greater Des Moines NAWIC chapter since 2017 and currently serves as the chapter President.
Kelli's commitment to professional development and industry leadership is further demonstrated through her involvement with the Construction Specification Institute (CSI), American Institute of Architects, Master Builders of Iowa, and the Iowa Architectural Foundation.
Kelli is a graduate of the 2020 Ankeny Leadership Institute program and a 2021 graduate of the MB"EYE" on the Future program, further enhancing her leadership skills and community engagement.
In addition to her professional endeavors, Kelli is deeply committed to volunteer work and community service. She currently serves as Founder and President of Engage Ankeny, a social services organization dedicated to connecting community members to local nonprofits through awareness and information.
Throughout her career, Kelli has been recognized for her strategic vision, dedication to excellence, and commitment to advancing the construction industry and her community. With her extensive experience and passion for driving positive change, Kelli continues to make a significant impact in her professional endeavors and within the community.
Brandon Anderson Vice President of Safety Presentation Title – Mental Health in the Construction Industry Learning Objectives: Participants will be have a better understanding of what is plaguing the industry. What are the contributing circumstances and/or root causes. Potential upstream intervention. Signs someone may be experiencing a struggle up to crisis. How to engage that individual. How to become more knowledgeable of available resources. Proven best practices that can be implemented immediately.
Bio Brandon Anderson, Vice President of Safety at AGC of Missouri; has 26 years of experience in the construction industry; holding various positions from leadership to senior safety and senior employee development specialist roles.
Mr. Anderson is not only a lifelong construction professional but also an advocate for total worker wellbeing; with a focus on Mental Health, Suicide and Substance Misuse.
In 2022 he co-found AGC of America’s National Task Force; Mental Health, Suicide Prevention. He currently serves as the co-chair; and serves on numerous other committeesnationally.His passion and personal experience runs deep and his impact is recognized throughout the Midwest; as well as nationally.
Jackie Dietz Landscape Architect Presentation Title – Day in the Life of a Landscape Architect
Learning Objectives: What is the role of a Landscape Architect? How does it differ from Civil Engineering and Landscape Design? Learn how Landscape Architect’s work through each project bringing together science and design to make our communities better.
Bio Jackie Dietz, PLA, ASLA, is a Landscape Architect in the Kansas City area with a broad range of experience. She is the Outdoor Products Territory Manager at Forms + Surfaces. Forms+Surfaces designs and manufactures architectural and outdoor products used in public spaces around the world. From site furnishings and lighting, our line invites creativity and provides real-world solutions to the challenges our customers face.
She is a Licensed Landscape Architect in Missouri and has practiced landscape architecture for over 10-years at multiple firms. Project experience includes corporate plazas, art gardens, universities, campus planning, and streetscapes. Jackie earned her Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (2012) at Iowa State University. She currently serves on the PGASLA Executive Committee, is the President-Elect for Center for Architecture and Design (CfAD) of Kansas City, and involved with Gardeners Connect. Jackie enjoys engaging with each client to create a beautiful design to enhance the user experience.
Dana Hasse Superintendent Presentation Title – Tradeswomen Panel
Bio Dana was first introduced to Construction in High School. Senior year, her and 10 other students helped build a house for a family in need. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin- Platteville with 2 Bachelor's Degrees in Civil Engineering & Environmental Engineering. She is now a Superintendent for a General Contractor. In her free time she enjoys being with friends, hunting, camping, kayaking and maintaining their land with her husband.
DeIla Ray Co-Owner & Specialty Welder Presentation Title – Tradeswomen Panel
Bio Della is the Co Owner & Specialty Welder at Alpha Duo LLC, working side by side her husband. Currently a Welding Instructor as well. She has won Tradeswoman of the Year 2020 Mentor of the Year and Industry Advocacy 2022 Emerging Leader of the Year 2023 all with Empowering Women in Industry. She loves her 3 dachshunds, spending time with family and friends and traveling.
Rebecca Heustess Journey-Woman Tile Setter Presentation Title – Tradeswomen Panel
Bio Rebecca and her husband have worked together for 12 years. She is a Journey-Woman Tile Setter & he is the Area Field Operations Manager. Starting her career as a Helper, working up to Finisher and eventually Setter. In 2019 she was awarded Tile Setter of the year with her company Grazzini Brothers. Her hobbies include traveling the world, hosting parties, hiking and spending time with her two dogs.
Crissy Ingram Executive Director Presentation Title – Association Responsibilities & NAWIC Membership Recruiting and Retention
Bio Crissy Ingram is a seasoned leader and advocate for women in the construction industry. As the Executive Director of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), she guides initiatives to promote diversity, inclusion, and professional development for women across all facets of the construction sector. She believes in the power of education and mentorship to inspire the next generation of female leaders in construction and beyond.
With her background in association management and a deep commitment to advancing the interests of women professionals, Crissy has earned the prestigious Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation, symbolizing her dedication to excellence in nonprofit leadership.
Her passion for breaking down barriers and fostering a supportive environment for women in traditionally male-dominated fields has driven her career trajectory. Crissy's leadership has been instrumental in expanding NAWIC's reach and influence, ensuring that women in construction have access to resources, mentorship, and opportunities for career advancement.
Amber Kohut Membership Coordinator Presentation Title – Chapter Development & NAWIC Membership Recruiting and Retention
Bio Amber Kohut is a dedicated professional serving as the Membership Coordinator for the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). With a passion for fostering community and empowering individuals within the construction industry, Amber plays a pivotal role in ensuring the growth and engagement of NAWIC's membership base.Drawing upon her extensive background in organizational management and member relations, Amber orchestrates strategic initiatives to attract, retain, and support members at every stage of their career journey. Through her innovative approaches and personalized outreach efforts, she cultivates a vibrant network of industry professionals, facilitating collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and career advancement opportunities.