West Michigan Speakers
Over the years, SMPS West Michigan has welcomed industry leaders, marketing experts, and business innovators to share their insights and expertise. Our speaker series covers a wide range of topics, from marketing strategies and business development to emerging trends in the A/E/C industry. Below, you’ll find a list of past speakers, their backgrounds, contact information, and the presentations they’ve delivered to our community.
Kirk Armstrong
Armstrong Sales Coaching, Inc.
Armstrong is a trainer, speaker, and business development coach with more than 20 years of experience in the areas of sales growth, management, strategic planning, interpersonal communications, and team building. With extensive roles in managing and leading people, he found a great need for building the skills and confidence of teams in the sales environment, particularly related to new account acquisition, customer retention, and business development. Known for his experience in developing and training sales tactics and strategies, clients are coached on how to win more business, in less time, while creating a common sales language and culture for their organization. Kirk is a graduate of Michigan State University, with a degree in Communications. He currently resides in Royal Oak, Michigan, with his wife and two children.
Presentations:
Kate Avery
Voyage Productions (formerly of)
Kate is a believer in beauty, goodness, truth, and popcorn. Voyage Pictures is an award-winning video storytelling agency. In her role as a story strategist, Kate helped clients optimize video strategy to create outcome-oriented storytelling; helping with messaging, video production, and distribution strategies.
Presentation:
Photography, Videography, and Drone Workshop
Contact Jesse:
LinkedIn: @Jesse-Ball-
MDOT Facebook
Fan Club
Jesse Ball
Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT)
Jesse Ball joined the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) in 2008 with the first task to launch the department's social media presence. Since then, he has been recognized for his deft handling of MDOT's Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube accounts, dealing with the positives and negatives of social media interactions, and always making sure followers' questions and concerns are addressed as quickly as possible.
Presentation:
Keeping Your Social Media Followers in the Loop - State of Social A/E/C 2023
[email protected]
Leland Bassett
Bassett & Bassett, Inc.
Leland has been a pioneer in applying communication psychology [human communication sciences] and strategic planning to public relations, corporate communication, and integrated strategic communication management for over three decades. He has particular expertise in strategic communication analysis and design, consumer behavior, crisis management, organizational development, public policy development, and issue management. He introduced the nation’s first corporate strategic communication management department in the 1970s, designed and taught the nation’s first graduate strategic communication management curriculum at Michigan State University College of Communication Arts & Sciences in the 1980s, and co-founded the first commercial communication arts & sciences-based communication professional services firm in 1986. Bassett is active as a professional services practitioner, guest lecturer, platform speaker, skills seminar leader, and not-for-profit leader.
[email protected]
Member, SMPS West Michigan
Commonwealth Associates
Del is an accomplished marketing professional with over a decade of diverse experience encompassing digital marketing, social media management, and content creation. Having recently acquired a Master of Arts in Strategic Communication from The University of Iowa School of Journalism and Mass Communication, Del is equipped with updated knowledge and expertise. As the Marketing Manager at Commonwealth Associates, Inc., Del leads the team tasked with fostering brand loyalty and implementing strategic marketing plans through a range of digital, print, and in-person channels nationwide. With a focus on audience insights and a touch of skepticism, Del employs a forward-thinking and holistic approach to marketing strategy, prioritizing audience needs over fleeting trends. As a thought leader in the field, Del has been invited to consult with various organizations on implementing generative AI practices at the organizational level. Outside of work, Del enjoys spending quality time with their spouse and two kiddos, keeping up on digital marketing and tech, reading science fiction and fantasy novels, and training for their next half marathon!
Adam Clarke
1 Bold Step
Adam Clarke is the President of 1 Bold Step in Grand Rapids, Michigan. With a background in marketing and business administration from Grand Valley State University’s Seidman College of Business, Adam specializes in streamlining processes and scaling marketing operations. He has partnered with companies like Haworth, Honeywell, Kendall Electric, and Cascade Engineering to develop and implement CRM systems, marketing automation, e-commerce solutions, and content management systems. Known for his empathic problem-solving and strategic approach, Adam focuses on helping businesses enhance user experiences, optimize go-to-market strategies, and drive measurable results.
Your Market has Changed – Now What? PIVOT
[email protected]
President, SMPS West Michigan
Clark Dietz, Inc.
Allison is the Communications Manager at Clark Dietz, Inc., where she leads strategic communications, brand awareness, thought leadership, and public engagement efforts with a data-driven approach. Known as "The Research Guru," she excels at connecting dots, identifying trends, and improving processes. Notable accomplishments include launching RS Engineering’s marketing department and increasing proposal submissions by 30% while boosting the hit rate. As SMPS West Michigan Chapter President and a founding board member, Allison has led initiatives such as The State of Social A/E/C and New You, New Market, while fostering industry connections. She is also actively involved with ACEC Michigan and the Construction Science Expo. Passionate about community impact, she supports small businesses and nonprofits through marketing, grant writing, and policy work. She specializes in making technical topics accessible in presentations on social media trends, marketing research, and sustainability. Outside of work, Allison enjoys exploring Michigan with her Corgi, George, through hiking, biking, kayaking, and traveling.
LinkedIn: @JohnEstill
John Estill
State of Michigan
John Estill is the State of Michigan’s Digital Information Accessibility Coordinator (DIAC). The DIAC is responsible for promoting digital accessibility through training and awareness across all state departments and agencies, participating in related workgroups, providing guidance to agencies, and supporting ADA Coordinators. He is also involved in IT procurement evaluation committees and contract negotiations. His role is combined within the Department of Technology, Management and Budget and the Michigan Department of Civil Rights. John has worked in government for 14 years on the Michigan.gov team, with the past 8 years highly focused on accessibility. Residing in Lansing, he is actively involved in his community participating on the boards of directors for the Lansing Parks Foundation and the Michigan Sportsman Against Hunger. He is also involved in Scouting BSA with his children and along with his spouse, co-own an art gallery in downtown Lansing.
Presentation:
Accessibility in Marketing Workshop
Contact Melvin:
LinkedIn: @Melvin-Gravely-ii
dearwhitefriend.com
Melvin Gravely, II
Author, Dear White Friend
Melvin J. Gravely, II is the CEO and Chairman of the board of Cincinnati, Ohio-based commercial construction company TriVersity Construction. Gravely is also the founder of the Institute for Entrepreneurial Thinking, Ltd. The Institute is a think-tank focused on getting the best results from minority business development initiatives. He is seen as one of the leading national thinkers on minority business development and supplier diversity. Mel is the author of nine books, including his latest new book, "Dear White Friend: The Realities of Race, the Power of Relationships, and our Path to Equity" and "The Capacity to Succeed: Fulfilling the Promise of Minority Business Development." "Dear White Friend" was inspired by the nasty rhetoric he has heard about race and enabled by the free time allotted to him by COVID. An active business and civic leader who has chaired the board of the Cincinnati Regional Chamber of Commerce, Gravely served on the board of the United Way, was a founding board member of the Cincinnati Regional Economic Development Initiative (REDI Cincinnati), and vice chairperson of Artswave, the largest community arts fund in the nation. He co-chaired the Cincinnati Regional Business Committee, a group of 100 middle-market CEOs working collectively toward meaningful civic action. He is also a board member of several private companies. Gravely graduated from Mount Union University with an MBA from Kent State University and a Ph.D. from the Union Institute and University. He has received several awards and distinctions, including the Larry Albice Entrepreneurship Award, the Cincinnati Regional Chamber Woman Mentor of the Year, the Forty Under Forty Award, multiple IBM 100% Clubs, the Men of Honor Award, and the 2020 Carl H. Linder Award for Entrepreneurial and Civic Spirit. He is married to Chandra Y. (Webb) Gravely, a physician with UC Health. They live in Cincinnati, OH, with three grown children and one granddaughter.
Presentation:
Advance, Advocate, and Accelerate a Path Towards Equity in Your Organization
Eric Hultgren
MLive
As an innovative market leader, Eric specializes in leveraging current technologies to foster authentic human connections. With an extensive background ranging from radio and digital media strategy to mixed martial arts commentary, Eric’s unique perspective is built on the belief that "everything is marketing." This isn't just a mantra; it's a holistic lens through which he interprets the evolving digital landscape. Eric’s passion for understanding and capitalizing on the nuances of human behavior has enabled him to successfully navigate diverse sectors such as mass media, tech analysis, and digital content strategy. Throughout his journey, Eric has consistently championed the intersection of technology and culture, always with an eye towards how they shape human relationships. Whether it's breaking down complex tech news for the everyday listener or strategizing brand campaigns for impactful reach, his mission remains consistent: to make the complexities of our digital world accessible and actionable.
Presentation:
Build A Brand on Your Phone - State of Social 2023
Kristen Lawlor
Past President, SMPS South Florida
Jerezinac Group
As Jezerinac Group’s Chief Marketing Officer, Kristen is responsible for the creative force behind the brand's narrative and market presence. Kristen provides oversight of the marketing and business development strategy for the firm, including developing and implementing marketing plans to promote the firm's services, managing branding efforts, conducting market research, and collaborating with other departments to align marketing initiatives with the firm's business goals. Kristen thrives on transforming complex engineering concepts into captivating narratives that resonate with our clients, driving both brand awareness and business growth, while enhancing the firm's visibility through effective marketing campaigns. Kristen is also SMPS South Florida Chapter Past President, representing Jezerinac to transform business through marketing leadership.
Presentation:
Unlock Your Creativity with Canva - Summer Design Series - 2
Frank Lazaro
AE Marketer
Frank Lazaro is a leader and innovator within the AEC industry, uniquely blending his extensive experience with pioneering AI-driven marketing content creation and generation methodologies. With over two decades of experience in marketing, technology, and strategy, Frank has cultivated an impressive track record for creating and marketing revenue-generating products.
Presentation:
Utilization of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Marketing, Social Media, and Proposals
Dan Martin
Member, SMPS West Michigan
Kzoom
Dan started Kzoom out of his basement in 2003 providing video production. He now focuses primarily on team culture, sales, and business strategy. He loves traveling with his 6 kids and wife, Sara. They run a hobby farm and are always adding new animals to the lineup.
Presentation:
Photography, Videography, and Drone Workshop
Kiah McMeekan
KZoom
Kiah McMeekan is a Digital Marketing Director by day and a social media enthusiast by night—passionate about blending creativity with analytics. She thrives on staying ahead of trends and crafting engaging content that resonates with audiences. With a deep appreciation for the connection between businesses and their communities, Kiah excels at building relationships and creating marketing strategies that foster engagement and growth.
Presentation:
Video in Social Media - SMPS WM State of Social 2025
Dan Oblinger
Leadercraft
Dan Oblinger is a veteran of law enforcement, hostage and crisis negotiations, and served as a negotiation commander. He has two decades of law enforcement experience with 14 years in crisis negotiations. More importantly, Dan has translated the most relevant lessons from his crisis work for clients in the A/E/C industries. He is the premier consultant on emotional communications and practical negotiations for consulting engineering and construction management firms in the US! Dan coaches executives and manages internal business negotiation teams for A/E/C firms so that they can build stronger connections and agreements inside and outside their culture! He is the author of three books on these topics and frequently keynotes, workshops, and consults.
Presentations:
SMPS/ACEC Seller-Doer Workshop: Relationship-based Negotiations - Part 2
SMPS/ACEC Seller-Doer Workshop: Relationship-based Negotiations - Part 1
Jason Reep
The Employers' Association (formerly of)
The Management Association
Jason Reep joined The Employers’ Association in 2015 as Director of Learning & Inclusion. In that role, Jason lead the Training & Development activities, oversaw the Association’s Affirmative Action services, and provided coaching, mentoring, training, and consulting support. Jason was named President by the Board of Directors effective September 1, 2018. Prior to joining TEA, Jason worked in the healthcare field and at a “sister” employers association in Seattle, WA. Jason’s experience includes over 20 years of Strategic Inclusion & Diversity work accomplished through his activities in Training & Development, Organizational Development, Coaching, and Human Resources Consulting. Jason has worked with employees at all levels within manufacturing, healthcare, non-profit, educational/governmental, and service industries providing coaching for executive leaders, development for supervisors and managers, and a variety of training experiences for hourly and contract employees. Jason was graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a BA in Psychology then attained an MEd in Human Resource Development from Xavier University. He is a Certified Association Executive (CAE), an SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHM-SCP), and a Senior Human Resource Professional (SPHR). In addition to his role at The Employers’ Association, Jason is an adjunct professor at Grand Valley State University (Human Resources) and serves on the Board of Directors for Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women (GROW). Jason is also a past member of the Experience Grand Rapids Diversity Advisory Council and the WGVU Engage Inclusion committee.
Presentation:
Multigenerational Collaboration
With 25+ years working for A/E/C firms, Barbara—a StoryBrand Certified Guide—understands the frustration of communicating differentiators and creating “why us” and “why not them” themes. At Everest Marketing Services, she uses a comprehensive suite of tools to help companies communicate clearly so they win work and attract staff to grow their business. She helps clients with internal communications and initiatives, and external efforts that win work through compelling and persuasive content and messaging. Barbara is a past-president of SMPS and is currently a SMPS Foundation trustee. She has a bachelor’s degree in Communication Arts (Journalism) and French, and a master’s degree in Business, (marketing emphasis), along with expertise in sales, printing, publishing, teaching, and marketing in the A/E/C industries.
Contact Katie:
LinkedIn: @SternKatie
webuildbold.com
Katie Stern
Build Bold, LLC.
Katie Stern has over 18 years of experience leading marketing teams and departments for nationally recognized AEC firms. Working in Baltimore, Washington DC, then making her way back to Pittsburgh, she has the experience and a track record of success when it comes to winning work in various markets across the United States. While building and restructuring marketing/sales departments, she has provided strategic insight and management for design, marketing, promotion, quality communication programs, branding, and team coaching to ensure the organization and its mission, values, and principles are consistently presented in a strong, positive way within the industry.
Presentation:
Professional Development Strategic (and EASY) Ways to Fill Your Social Media Content Calendar - State of Social 2024
Adam Suiter
517 Visuals
Adam Suiter is a professional photographer with a background in creative direction and design. While photography was always part of his career, he officially embraced it as a profession in 2012 when he and Amber launched their photography business. At the time, he was working as a Creative Director for a tech company until the business grew enough for him to transition full-time. With over two decades of experience in various creative roles, he brings a keen eye for design to his work. A tech enthusiast at heart, he enjoys diving into the latest camera gear and photography technology.
Presentation:
Photography, Videography, and Drone Workshop
Contact Allison:
253.256.6592
[email protected]
LinkedIn: @AllisonTivnon
middleofsix.com
Allison Tivnon
Middle of Six
Allison Tivnon is an Associate Principal at Middle of Six, an A/E/C marketing consultancy and a City Councilor for the City of Beaverton, Oregon. She has dedicated her career to city and regional planning—partnering with Cities, Counties, regional governments, DOTs, and others on behalf of urban planners, transportation engineers, economists, and policy analysts. Allison regularly presents and trains on topics such as business development, proposal writing, and interviewing--with the goal of helping marketers and technical staff discover skills they didn’t even know they had and develop existing ones in ways that advance their careers. Allison is also the author of Marketing at Low Tide: How to Recession-Proof Your Marketing Department.
Presentations:
Client Psychology: How Perceptions Affect Proposals and Interviews
Proposal Writing: Mastering the Art of Training Your Technical Staff
Marketing At Low Tide: How to Recession Proof Your Marketing Department
