Speakers
Keynote Speaker – Ben Breen
PMI’s Global Director of Construction and Vice President for the APAC region
Ben Breen is the Global Director of Construction and Vice President for the APAC region at PMI. Since joining in 2019, he has led the development of the PMI Construction Professional (PMI-CP)™ certification, equipping professionals with essential skills for the construction industry.
Originally from Australia, Ben moved to Singapore in 1994 and has played a key role in major projects like Marina Bay Sands and Suntec Convention Centre. An entrepreneur, he built his own project management company into a top-tier provider. Ben is PMI-CP certified, reinforcing his dedication to advancing project management in construction.
Special Guest – Ike Nwankwo, MSc, MBA, PMP, DASSM
PMI Board of Directors Chair
Ike Nwankwo, MSc, MBA, PMP, is the Chair of the PMI Board of Directors. He has served on the PMI Board since 2021. He is a long-time PMI volunteer and past president of the PMI chapter in Nigeria, past PMI Region Mentor for Africa and the immediate past Chair of PMI’s Governance Committee.
Nwankwo is the managing director of Distinct Management, Ltd, an independent project management consultancy focusing on information technology, construction, and business transformation. Throughout his more than 25-year career, he has managed portfolios and led the delivery of multi-million-dollar projects and programs across multiple sectors, for a diverse range of multinational organizations across the United Kingdom and Africa.
He is a motivated professional speaker, and he has co-authored a book on global leadership, entitled “Developing Global Leaders: Insights from African Case Studies.”
Nwankwo holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in Architecture, both from the University of Nigeria, as well as an MBA from Middlesex University Business School, United Kingdom. He is a graduate of the PMI Leadership Institute Master Class of 2016.
Karim Teli – Closing Keynote
Karim Teli is a visionary entrepreneur, investor, and creative producer with a dynamic track record of driving innovation across technology and consumer goods. As the founder of Big Shot Technologies, he has built a reputation for transforming bold ideas into thriving businesses, pioneering advancements in both the tech and FMCG sectors. With a sharp instinct for identifying talent and emerging opportunities, Karim has mentored and invested in numerous startups, guiding early-stage entrepreneurs toward scalable success. His leadership has consistently empowered others to think big, act boldly, and create meaningful impact. Karim has delivered compelling talks on influential platforms including TEDx and Shark Tank Pakistan. His work reflects a deep commitment to innovation, creativity, and social responsibility—values that have earned him widespread recognition and multiple accolades. Through his ventures and advocacy, Karim continues to inspire the next generation of leaders and change makers to reimagine what’s possible.
Kathleen Walch, Director of AI Engagement at Project Management Institute (PMI)
Kathleen is Director of AI Engagement at Project Management Institute (PMI). PMI acquired Cognilytica in September 2024 to continue guiding project professionals in adding more AI capabilities to their skillsets. At Cognilytica, Kathleen co-developed the CPMAI methodology, iterating and evolving prior approaches to AI & data project management given the realities of the rapidly changing AI environment. Adopted by dozens of multinational organizations, dozens of government agencies, and NGOs, CPMAI is quickly becoming the standard methodology for AI project management best practices. Kathleen is CPMAI Certified and is a Lead Instructor on CPMAI courses and training. As an experienced data-focused analyst with a background in marketing, Kathleen’s expertise and experience in project management issues around organizational adoption of data led to the development of the CPMAI methodology. Kathleen is a dynamic presenter, researcher and thought leader on emerging technology best practices. She helped launch the AI-focused working group at ATARC and is the AI working group chair bringing her knowledge, experience, and expertise to help organizations and government agencies apply AI best practices. Kathleen was selected to join OECD’s ONE AI and Expert Group on AI risk and accountability in 2019 at the OECD ONE group launch. She is often invited to present at and keynote industry events. Kathleen is also a co-host of the AI Today podcast, regular Forbes contributor, TechTarget SearchAI columnist, and SXSW Innovation Awards Judge.
LCDR Tim Wharton, US Navy
LCDR Tim Wharton enlisted in the Navy after high school in 1997 and entered the submarine nuclear propulsion program as an engine room mechanic. After several tours of duty on ballistic missile submarines, repair facilities, and instructor duty, Tim was selected into the nuclear propulsion officer community.
In his commissioned career, he completed significant maintenance programs and deployments on aircraft carriers and attack submarines. Tim has operated nuclear propulsion plants all over the world including the Arabian Gulf, and the northern Atlantic.
Tim has a BS Nuclear Engineering Technology from Thomas Edison State University, completed while on instructor duty in upstate New York, and MS in Project Management from Boston University.
Tim is also the President Elect of PMI Hampton Roads (Virginia).
Megan Funaro, Assistant Provost for Operations at Boston University
Megan Funaro is the Assistant Provost for Operations at Boston University. In this role, Megan manages searches, space renovations, events and miscellaneous projects throughout the Provost’s Office. Megan joined BU in 2014, serving as Executive Assistant to the Provost and later as Deputy Chief of Staff. For the last two years, she has served as Vice-Chair of the newly formed Staff Advisory Council and will serve as the inaugural Chair this coming year. Megan earned a Bachelor of Science in History and a Master of Science in Counseling and Student Development in Higher Education from Central Connecticut State University. In May 2021, she completed a Master of Science in Project Management from Boston University’s Metropolitan College and is a member of the Project Management Institute (PMI).
Aleksey Chuprov, Vice President of Data Analytics and AI at Suffolk Construction
Aleksey Chuprov is the Vice President of Data Analytics and AI at Suffolk Construction, where he leads the company’s efforts to harness data and artificial intelligence to drive innovation and efficiency. His leadership covers a broad spectrum of initiatives, including enterprise data management, advanced business intelligence, and the development of cutting-edge predictive and agentic AI tools. These technologies are redefining how construction projects are designed, planned, and delivered—from early-stage concept development to execution and closeout. Before joining Suffolk, Aleksey was a leader at McKinsey & Company, where he focused on helping clients in capital-intensive industries unlock value through the integration of construction expertise with advanced analytics. His work there emphasized data-driven decision-making and operational improvement across the project lifecycle. Aleksey began his career in the oil and gas sector, where he managed large-scale offshore construction projects and gained firsthand experience in complex project delivery, risk management, and field operations.
David Morczinek, Co-Founder and CEO of AirWorks
David Morczinek is the Co-Founder and CEO of AirWorks, a geospatial intelligence company revolutionizing how industries leverage aerial data. By utilizing cutting-edge technologies like imagery, LiDAR, and remote sensing, AirWorks empowers leading utilities, telecommunications, and engineering firms to create digital twins and streamline construction and maintenance processes. AirWorks has also developed patented machine learning software to transform engineering workflows. Under David’s leadership, the company has evolved from a university start-up into a leader in field data processing and management, securing funding from many leading investors, including most recently, its Series A led by Providence Strategic Growth, and become a leader for geospatial analytics solutions.
Before founding AirWorks, David spent a decade at Airbus, where he played pivotal roles in high-profile programs. As Aircraft Completion Manager for the A350XWB program, he led the final assembly of milestone aircraft, ensuring on-time delivery – the biggest milestone in this $11 billion aircraft development program. He later negotiated large aircraft and services contracts with governments around the world, as part of the A400M program. David holds an MBA from the MIT Sloan School of Business, where he focused on data and machine learning, blending technical expertise with entrepreneurial vision to drive innovation in engineering and geospatial intelligence.
Dheekshita Kumar, CEO of CivCheck
As the CEO of CivCheck, Dheekshita brings a wealth of experience in leveraging AI and machine learning to solve critical challenges in the public sector, particularly in the realm of permitting and the built environment. With a strong technical foundation from MIT in mechanical and electrical engineering, as well as computer science, Dheekshita was instrumental in developing AI ethics coursework for MIT’s largest machine learning course, educating students on responsible AI and ML development. She has applied cutting-edge AI technologies across various sectors, including education and utilities, driving innovation that makes a tangible impact. At CivCheck, Dheekshita leads transformative efforts in construction permitting, helping cities and applicants streamline processes, cutting approval times by 70-80% while ensuring a high standard of quality and human oversight.
Dr. Anil Sawhney (Co-Chair)
Anil is the co-chair of PMiP conference this year. With over 25 years of experience in the construction and infrastructure sector, the speaker is passionate about advancing the professional development, standards, and knowledge of this critical field. As the Head of Sustainability at RICS, they lead a portfolio of global activities designed to ensure that RICS achieves its strategic objective to lead and influence on sustainability.
In addition to his leadership role, the speaker is also an educator and a researcher. He teaches project management at the University of Southern California and Boston University, and have published multiple papers and reports on digitalization, decarbonization, Building Information Modeling (BIM), alternate technologies, and digital model-based delivery. The speaker’s academic and professional contributions have been recognized with several honors and certifications, including the 7th CIDC Vishwakarma Achievement Award and the 2014 Distinguished Scholar Award.
Professor Sawhney is always keen to learn and explore new technologies and innovations that can enhance the construction and infrastructure sector’s efficiency, quality, and sustainability. With their extensive experience, expertise, and passion for the industry, they are well-positioned to contribut
Ben Awuah
Computer Engineer with a strong background in control and embedded systems design, offering a versatile skill set across both hardware and software domains. Proven experience in control systems, customer service, digital and analog electronics, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) layout, test engineering, and system integration. Skilled in hardware and software troubleshooting, project management, and the testing and maintenance of electronic and software-based equipment. Known for being a creative thinker, a proactive self-starter, and a resourceful problem solver. Equally effective working independently or collaboratively within cross-functional teams.
Luis Argüelles
Luis is the Co-Founder and CEO of COPRISA, a forward-thinking real estate development company specializing in modern, high-value residential projects. With a strong background in construction, project management, and operations, he brings deep expertise in strategic planning, budgeting, and process optimization to ensure the efficient delivery of high-quality developments. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from PUCP and a Master’s in Project Management from Boston University. Luis is also certified in Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) from Stanford, Lean Six Sigma, and holds the CAPM credential from the Project Management Institute (PMI). Passionate about designing smart, functional living spaces, Luis is committed to shaping urban environments that meet the evolving needs of modern city life.
Fabio Mazzocco
Fabio Mazzocco is a project manager with diverse experience spanning IoT, construction, and internet-based solutions. His success is rooted in a steadfast commitment to delivering value, ensuring quality, and empowering people. Fabio thrives in environments where he is entrusted with ownership and guided by a clear vision. Passionate and purpose-driven, he influences others by leading through service and embracing responsibility. His approach consistently fosters collaboration, accountability, and results.
Inthumathi Chandrasekaran
Inthumathi Chandrasekaran is a PMP-certified professional with a Master’s degree in Project Management from Boston University. She brings robust experience in the offshore industry, underpinned by a strong foundation in Electrical Engineering. Her expertise spans the full project lifecycle, including pre-engineering surveys, front-end engineering design (FEED), detailed engineering, installation and methods engineering, and fabrication activities. Inthumathi’s skill set is deeply rooted in offshore installation processes, with a proven track record in design engineering and project management. With a hands-on, detail-oriented approach, she excels at integrating technical knowledge with leadership to drive successful project outcomes in complex engineering environments.
Dr. Luigi Morsa
Research Posters Track Chair
Aerospace Engineer & Space Fluid Dynamics PhD with experience in Aerospace Structures, Avionics, Aerothermodynamics, Flight Mechanics, Project Management, and Innovation Management Software.
Career highlights include serving as Project Manager, team leader and experienced engineer for challenging and demanding programs for a big group of Aerospace Industry and consultant companies. Additionally, Luigi has collaborated with other authors, publishing articles on “Chess and Business Strategy” and “People Innovation: A New Vision to Innovate” for the International Institute for Learning (IIL) Blog. Further, the speaker contributed a chapter on “Innovation Management Software” to the book “Innovation Project Management” published by John Wiley & Sons in 2019.
The speaker has significant speaking experience, having presented at the Project Management Institute (PMI) Conference – Europe Middle East Africa (EMEA) 2018 in Berlin on the complexity of the aircraft industry market and the relationship between product and customer needs. Their published work includes a case study on “The Airbus A380” in the book “Project Management Case Studies Fifth Edition” published by John Wiley & Sons in 2017.
Luigi´s passion for project management has led him to contribute to two books by Dr. Harold Kerzner, the pioneer and globally recognized expert in project management. Luigi wrote two case studies about the Aircraft industry for Project Management Case Studies, 5th and 6th Editions (Wiley, 2017, 2022), two sections (Open Innovation in Action; The Project Manager’s Role in Developing Innovation Skills and Ideas in People) and the chapter “Innovation Management Software” for Innovation Project Management 1st and 2nd editions (Wiley, 2019, 2023).He recently co-authored with Richard Maltzman, a chapter “10 Lessons Learnt from Irresponsibility in Project Management” for the book De Gruyter Handbook of Responsible Project Management (De Gruyter, 2023). Luigi is a contributor for the International Institute for Learning blog; he is the author of “Artificial Intelligence and Project Management: The First Step ” (2023); “Avoiding Mistakes: The Great Challenge” (2022); “Team Management: The Key to Success” (2022); “Agile. Creativity. Innovation.” (2022); “Reduce the Risk – Share the Success” (2022), “Managing Conflicts in Projects” (2021); “Chess and Business Strategy” (2020); “People Innovation: A New Vision to Innovate” (2019).
Loredana Abramo
Research Papers Chair
Dr. Loredana Abramo is a global citizen, who has lived and worked in several international locations, across 4 continents. She has over 30 years of experience delivering large telecommunications networks and leading global programs in the corporate program office. Loredana is a Doctor in Electrical Engineering, a certified Professional Engineer in Italy and has a Certificate in Advanced Project Management from DePaul University. She is a PMP®, a member of PMI, a senior member of IEEE, and a TIA Convergence Technologies Professional.
Always committed to sharing her experience in project management, Loredana has written and presented multiple papers in support of IEEE, PMI, and IPMA. She has co-authored a book on Project Management competency development (Bridging the PM Competency Gap – 2017), a book on Responsible Project Management (The Responsible Project Manager Handbook – 2023) and is adjunct professor at Boston University Metropolitan College.
Location: Greater Chicago Area
Industries: Telecom, Infrastructure, IT, Engineering
Kim Essendrup, Raidlog (Vendor and Panelist)
Kim is CEO of Raidlog. He believes that data is the best foundation for business decision-making. Hunches, and intuition just don’t cut it in today’s agile business model; executives, leaders, and teams need to make educated, data-decisions in order to successfully navigate the complex and ever-changing business landscape. This is one of the reasons he created AI-energized Raidlog to help project, program, and portfolio leaders identify, analyze, respond to, and communicate about risks.
Kim has also published books and is the co-host of the Project Management Happy Hour Podcast – a place for frank and honest discussion about real world issues in project management. We do it in a way that’s not too dry, though it may get a bit salty from time to time. Each episode covers a problem faced by Project Managers today, and share practical advice, real-life examples and the occasional project horror story.
Denise Arruda
Dr. Denise Arruda is an adjunct professor of Project Management in Boston University’s Metropolitan College Administrative Sciences program. She received her Doctorate degree in IT, specializing in Project Management, from Capella University in 2019. In 1999, Dr. Arruda started running IT projects and became certified as a Project Management Professional (PMP) in 2004, where she remains in good standing. In 2018, She extended her knowledge to include Agile practices and obtained a Professional Scrum Master (PSM-1) certification. In 2023, Dr. Arruda extended her agile certifications to include SAFe for Teams. Dr. Arruda is the Senior Manager of Software for Fire Suppression Products at Johnson Controls Inc. She leads a global high-performance agile software development team. Dr. Arruda is a leader of leaders driving strategy, vision, and priorities by leading, coaching, and motivating her team to deliver on commitments. It is through building trusted relationships with the development team, product management, and leadership that our team and projects can be successful.
Dave Silberman
Dave Silberman, PhD, writes, researches, trains, and speaks to help change the stories of working life. Guided by a passionate concern for unleashing human potentiality, Dave taps into the relational dynamics between people, places, and the ways of the business to humanize and harmonize people and organizational performance.
Dave holds a PhD in Human Resources Development and has unique expertise in the human side of the business. Daves’s experience spans over 20 years working in the government, hi-tech startup, healthcare, and venture capital sectors. Additionally, Dave is a graduate-level lecturer at Boston University. His research interests include human factors and behavioral strategies related to human and entrepreneurial performance. He has authored scholarly literature and practitioner-based articles published in places like Forbes and is a best-selling author.
Scott Lynde
Rich Maltzman
Conference-Co-Chair
As a Master Lecturer at Boston University, Rich specializes in developing and delivering impactful courses tailored to graduate students, including and especially current practitioners. These courses empower them to drive positive change within their careers and make a meaningful impact on the world. With over 40 years of industry experience, including a substantial 30-year tenure in Project Leadership, including serving as a Director of the global PMO at Nokia, Rich brings extensive knowledge and expertise to the field. Rich holds a PMP(R) certification and has a deep-seated passion for integrating sustainability into project management.
In addition to his role writing and teaching a suite of Graduate courses at Boston University, Rich is also the co-founder and principal of EarthPM, LLC, a dynamic consulting and training company that excels at the intersection of project management and sustainability. Rich has had the privilege of working with diverse clients spanning various sectors and countries, including prestigious organizations such as the US Department of Energy, The United Nations, Massachusetts General Hospital, Eink, Omega Therapeutics, Beacon Construction Products, and Watermark Environmental. His commitment to this field is further reflected in my co-authorship of eight books on project leadership and numerous publications, all centered on project management and related topics. Rich is an active blogger on PMI’s projectmanagement.com, sharing his insights and experiences to benefit the project management community.
Vijay Kanabar
Dr. Kanabar has unique expertise spanning both business practices and computer science. A Project Management Professional (PMP®) and Certified ScrumMaster® (CSM®), he has advised numerous organizations on training and technology needs, including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Staples, United Way, and Fidelity Investments. Kanabar is an internationally published scholar and is recognized by local and national media as an authority on IT project management, electronic commerce, and information security. In 2017, Kanabar received the Project Management Institute’s Teaching Excellence Award.
Our Ambassadors
| Name | Ankit Samal |  |
| Program | MS Project Management | |
| Graduation Year | 2026 | |
| One-Line Bio | I’m a master’s student in Project Management at Boston University with a background as a Marine Engineer. I have over four years of experience leading international ship operations and managing large-scale engineering projects. | |
| https://www.linkedin.com/in/ankit-samal-4a8296344/ |
| Name | Fita Refinalia |  |
| Program | MS Project Management | |
| Graduation Year | 2025 | |
| One-Line Bio | Just graduated from BU with Project Management Program with over 10 years project coordinations experience. | |
| https://www.linkedin.com/in/fitarefinalia/ |
| Name | Hala Almuqati |  |
| Program | MS Project Management | |
| Graduation Year | 2025 | |
| One-Line Bio | A graduate student at Boston University with academic and research experience in project management and entrepreneurship. | |
| https://www.linkedin.com/in/hala-almuqati-833b37184/ |
| Name | Janani Amalraj |  |
| Program | MS Project Management | |
| Graduation Year | 2024 | |
| One-Line Bio | PhD Candidate (International Business) at SNHU | |
| https://www.linkedin.com/in/janani-amalraj-0603711b/ |
| Name | Jayant Velichety |  |
| Program | MS Applied Business Analytics | |
| Graduation Year | 2019 | |
| One-Line Bio | Data Engineer at a fintech company and part-time PhD student in Data Science at Harrisburg University, with previous experience in energy forecasting and DER integration, now also serving as a SKY Campus Happiness trainer teaching meditation and breathwork to university students. | |
| https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayantvelichety/ |
| Name | Kavach Shah |  |
| Program | MS Computer Science | |
| Graduation Year | 2024 | |
| One-Line Bio | AI and machine learning researcher leading multidisciplinary projects across quantum computing,NLP,medical imaging, and construction automation while delivering measurable results in efficiency and diagnostic accuracy. | |
| https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavachshah22/ |
| Name | Liza Chhuon |  |
| Program | MS Project Management | |
| Graduation Year | 2025 | |
| One-Line Bio | A recent BU graduate with a background in economics and operations & supply chain management, and will be working as a consultant back home in Cambodia | |
| https://www.linkedin.com/in/liza-chhuon/ |
| Name | Lutong Wen |  |
| Program | MS Project Management | |
| Graduation Year | 2025 | |
| One-Line Bio | Graduate student at Boston University with academic experience in project management, innovation strategy, and organizational change. | |
| https://www.linkedin.com/in/lutong-wen-a26396340/ |
| Name | Maryam Alyaqoob |  |
| Program | MS Project Management | |
| Graduation Year | 2025 | |
| One-Line Bio | A Boston University project management graduate with a psychology background, passionate about movement, creativity, and discovering new professional challenges. Returning to Saudi Arabia with fresh energy and ideas. | |
| https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryam-alyaqoob-5b9a1224b/ |
| Name | Nichole Man |  |
| Program | MFA Production Management | |
| Graduation Year | 2026 | |
| One-Line Bio | A second year MFA Production Management graduate with 3 years of management experience in live theatre performances. | |
| https://www.linkedin.com/in/nichole-man?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app |
| Name | Nurzhamal Yrysbekova |  |
| Program | MS Project Management | |
| Graduation Year | 2026 | |
| One-Line Bio | A graduate student in Project Management at Boston University with a background in educational projects. Originally from Kyrgyzstan,Central Asia. | |
| https://www.linkedin.com/in/nurzhamal-yrysbekova-458810351/ |