Speakers

Travis Soberg is a principal at Goettsch Partners, as well as the firm’s director of sustainable design. He joined GP in 1998 and has worked on some of the firm’s most prominent projects. With the growth and expansion of the firm’s international work, Travis has played a pivotal role in leading the technical design direction on large-scale office, hotel and mixed-use projects, with a primary focus on supertall towers. Travis is a member of the AIA and a LEED Accredited Professional. He holds a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Penn State University.

Jennifer Dempsey joined Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects (TWBTA) in 2017. She has played a key role on TWBTA’s campus projects including the Hood Museum of Art at Dartmouth College in New Hampshire, which was completed in 2019. Currently Jennifer is one of the project team leaders for the 19-acre campus of the Obama Presidential Center. Among other responsibilities Jennifer has led the coordination of the Museum Tower structure from early design through construction. Before joining TWBTA, Jennifer was a project manager at GLUCK+, a New York City design-build firm, where she managed several residential projects through both design and construction phases.

AIA, LEED AP

Tom specializes in simplifying complex problems and building consensus toward solutions. He is a firm leader in project management, technical advising, and in the use of Integrated Product Delivery methods. He has led the implementation of advanced rendering technologies across Valerio Dewalt Train, and is the co-founder of the firm’s Collaborative Design Workshop. His wide-ranging experience includes the new urban mid-rise residences and transformative office building renovations at 25 W. Main in Madison, Wisconsin, the urban residences Seven27, and restaurants L’etoile and Graze. In addition to sailing and playing soccer, he appreciates photography and spending time with his family.

AIA, LEED AP

Viewing every task as a puzzle to be solved, Matt’s work is dedicated to thinking and rethinking any challenge. Active with VDT’s Collaborative Design Workshop, he believes that good design is iterative, inquisitive, and gutsy. As a Principal and design leader at Valerio Dewalt Train, he shaped the design of numerous tech campuses, including Google, VMware, and Adobe. He led a project for Juniper Networks that received an AIA Chicago Interiors Honor Award and a Best of Year Award from Interiors Magazine. He is passionate about serving disinvested communities, successfully winning design competitions in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood to bring affordable housing, and catalytic design to spark investment.

Matt bikes to work and carries a sketchbook everywhere. He’s an art lover, nature enthusiast, urbanist and dad of three. His greatest joy is the opportunity to share his design talents with the City he loves.

As Senior Vice President of Virtual Construction, MEP and Operations Technology, Jen provides strategic direction for Pepper Construction in these areas and serves as a key advisor to project teams on constructability and implementation strategies throughout the early stages of project design through construction and facility management. With more than 16 years of experience in architecture, engineering and construction, Jen leads teams to think creatively and solve problems for our clients in ways that are not expected, incorporating technology and virtual construction tools in to how we deliver work. She is a forward-thinking industry-recognized innovator, continuing to work to pilot new technologies and leverage tools in new ways. Jen helps deliver a consistent experience for clients, aligning technology with the firm’s operational needs from the office to the field. This includes setting standards across all locations, improving workflows and ensuring technology is consistently implemented and teams are thoroughly trained.

Jen’s career spans award-winning structural engineering projects, leading our industry to adopt 3D design and construction practices while serving as one of the foremost thought leaders, conference speakers and interviewees on the use of virtual construction technology to deliver better buildings more efficiently. She has been recognized among Crain’s Notable Women in Stem, Autodesk Construction Champions, BD+C’s 40 Under 40, Builtworlds Top 50 Technology Adoptions Leaders, Women in Construction by Constructech Magazine, Chicago Building Congress Future Leaders and ENR Midwest’s Top 20 Under 40.

Jen holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Architectural Studies and a Master of Architecture, Structures, both from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Interested in the craft of architecture and the applications of digital design, Lucas Tryggestad specializes in designing and realizing technically complex building systems. A native of Illinois, Lucas draws upon his Midwestern roots, as well as a global portfolio spanning five continents, to apply his contextual knowledge to projects both locally and abroad.

His project work includes 100 Mount Street, an office tower that is efficiently designed to minimize the carbon impact of construction, and AMIE 1.0, a research partnership between SOM and the U.S. Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory exploring energy efficiency and the applications of 3D printing.

Philip Castillo, FAIA brings over 30 years experience, working on a variety of building types, including the more complex projects the practice has been engaged with. As Managing Director he works in every capacity of a project and is responsible for planning, design, management and systems integration ensuring that the design intent is maintained throughout the process. His resume includes projects on a global scale such as Sony Center Berlin, The Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok, Shanghai New International Expo Centre, Tokyo Station Yaesu Development in Japan and 1000M in Chicago as well as smaller projects that foster innovation like the Harold and Margo Schiff Residences in Chicago and a system of Urban Furniture for the JC Decaux Company. Philip’s background allows him a unique perspective on buildings with complex programs and systems and the thorough understanding of how a project’s components and details are synthesized within the design concept.

Philip was inducted into College of Fellows of the American Institute of Architects in 2010. Speaking engagements have included World Conferences for the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat in Melbourne, Australia in 2001 and Mumbai, India in 2010.

Born in 1952 in Highland Park, Illinois, Philip studied architecture at the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago. He began his association with JAHN in 1978.

Samra is a senior project designer for JGMA. She holds an M. Arch from UIC, and spent time studying abroad in Berlin, Germany. As being a Chicago-native, Samra is passionate about how architecture can positively impact communities within the city. Her work at JGMA includes the design for Esperanza Health Center, as well as her current work for Humboldt Park Health Wellness Center.

Maria was born and raised in Spain. She holds a master’s in architecture from Universitat Politecnica de Valencia and she is licensed in Spain, and has work experience in Spain, The Netherlands and US. She is a Senior Project Designer at JGMA. Maria is an ambitious designer that is interested in exploring the way that architecture can propose new possibilities for contemporary society and existing buildings, influence the communities and built the environment. Her work at JGMA includes the design for SOS Children’s Villages and Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep, as well as her current work for Humboldt Park Health Wellness Center.

Daniel Spore brings with him ten years of applied architectural experience. While Daniel’s passion for architecture is rooted in clever design solutions, he is an expert in developing those initial concepts into completed structures. He has been a working manager through all phases of project delivery, from pre design through construction. In his years of experience he has been involved in various civic, commercial, educational, healthcare, laboratory, and recreational project types. Daniel has worked on a diverse portfolio of buildings throughout the united states and has been a contributing designer on many international design proposals.

Scott Brackney is a registered architect with over 10 years experience in the design and execution of high-rise buildings. As a senior designer, Scott is focused on the complete user experience, working closely with the entire consultant team to develop bold designs that also emphasize functionality and performance. His past projects at Goettsch Partners include Poly International Finance Center, a 14-building mixed-use complex in Guangzhou, and Alcove, a residential tower in Nashville recently recognized with a 2024 CTBUH Award of Excellence for Best Tall Building.

Brian Abell joined Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects (TWBTA) in 2008. Since then he has managed and been an essential project team member on some of TWBTA’s most complex campus projects including the Logan Center for the Arts at the University of Chicago, the Hood Museum at Dartmouth College, the Banyan Park Campus of TATA Consultancy Services in Mumbai, India, and the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City. Currently Brian is one of the project team leaders for the 19-acre campus of the Obama Presidential Center. Among other responsibilities Brian has led the design and implementation of the project’s envelope from concept through construction. Prior to joining TWBTA, Brian worked at Heintges & Associates as a Building Façade Specialist, working on a range of institutional projects including the Museum of Arts & Design, Atlantic Terminal, and the Brooklyn Botanical Garden Visitor Center.

Paulina Szpiech is an Associate Principal with BuroHappold and leads the firm’s Midwest Facade Consultancy efforts.

With a creative and multidisciplinary approach, Paulina focuses on solutions which meet architect’s and client’s goals. Recognizing the impact façade systems carry in lowering buildings’ embodied and operational carbon, she believes that implementing sustainability goals is a critical parameter throughout all design stages. Her portfolio of work includes national and international projects within the higher education, cultural, residential and commercial sectors. Paulina is also an Adjunct Professor at Illinois Institute of Technology where she teaches a facades-focused course

Travis Heim, RA, joined Heintges in 2016 and has delivered high-profile projects across his career including world-class academic facilities, landmark institutional buildings, corporate headquarters, healthcare facilities, airport terminals, and luxury private residences. His commitment to developing custom solutions for each project to achieve the client’s vision is grounded in attention to detail from unique project experiences and technical research of building sciences and materials. Travis utilizes a holistic approach to envelope design that integrates aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.

A registered architect in New York, Travis holds a Master of Architecture degree from Columbia University’s GSAPP, as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in Architectural Studies from Washington State University. Prior to academic studies, Travis worked as an aircraft mechanic in the US Navy, specializing in the repair and inspection of aircraft structures and components. 

Darling is CEO, creative director, and co-founder of The Architect’s Newspaper, celebrating its 20th year. The A|N media company consists of print and digital publications covering architecture and design news, as well as the Facades+ and TECH+ conferences. As A|N’s publisher, Darling won the AIA National Collaboration Award, Grassroots Preservation Award, and ASLA NY’s President’s Award. She began her publishing career as director of print production for The Gap’s European markets. She holds a BS from The University of Texas at Austin.

Tim Nass has nearly 30 years of experience in the architectural glazing industry. As the Vice President of Sales at SAFTI FIRST, leading USA-manufacturer of fire rated glass and framing systems, he brings his extensive knowledge and expertise when working closely with architects, consultants, general contractors and glaziers to deliver a code-compliant glazing solution that meets all the aesthetic, performance and budget requirements of the project. Tim also oversees SAFTI FIRST’s global network of architectural sales representatives.

Tim Nass is a dynamic presenter and speaker who has been delivering educational presentations to various architecture firms, AIA local chapters, CSI local chapters, at the CSI National Convention and other architectural and glazing industry events.

During his time at Elemex Architectural Facades, David has focused on developing the Building Integrated Photovoltaic marketplace. Committed to reshaping and redefining sustainable design, he works to educate the design community on the capabilities of solar technology, not only in power generation but as a unique and attractive design element as well. David encourages his audiences to look beyond conventional solar applications so we can work together to redefine our approach to environmentally conscious architecture.

Andy Hill has amassed over 25 years of experience in the construction industry, offering invaluable insights gained through his various roles. He is a results-driven, focused, and dedicated professional known for his ability to establish enduring relationships with customers. Andy started his career with Service Glass/Harmon in 1998, where he served as an Estimator and Project Manager before transitioning to Glass Solutions in 2000.

Over the years, he seamlessly assumed leadership roles, progressing from a lead Sales position to becoming the CEO in 2012. Andy’s unwavering commitment to forging a shared vision with clients is evident in his relentless efforts to elevate every partnership to new heights. His acute attention to detail, adept project planning, management skills, and creative problem-solving abilities make him an asset to any team he collaborates with.

Curtain Wall & Façade Specialist for the Strategic Accounts Division of STI Specified Technologies, covering the central United States and Canada.

Aaron joined STI Specified Technologies in 2015 and has over 30 years of experience in construction materials. He has conducted firestop trainings for STI, The International Firestop Council and to a variety of groups including; architects, engineers, consultants, code officials, inspectors and all types of trades. He is certified at Level 2 of Firestop Instructional Training (FIT II).

Chad Showalter is the Vice President of Sales and started at Metal Design Systems Inc. in 2007. He oversees the Sales and Estimating department, including working closely with the architects and subcontractors across the country on commercial construction projects. Through his 17 years at the company, he has contributed to growing the business into a top national exterior facade fabricator.

José R. Sánchez, President and Chief Executive Officer of HUMBOLDT PARK HEALTH (HPH), is a senior healthcare executive with over 40 years of experience in the operational, strategic, and fiscal management of multi-faceted healthcare systems. Under his leadership, HPH has maintained financial stability and growth throughout his tenure. Besides consistently exceeding benchmarks in quality, safety, and patient satisfaction, Mr. Sánchez successfully orchestrated the hospital’s preparation for its accreditation survey by The Joint Commission three times. Moreover, the hospital was surveyed and successfully accredited by DNV•GL Healthcare in 2019 and 2020.

A major $7M renovation of the hospital was also completed in June 2020, which offers patients, visitors, and employees a more vibrant and welcoming experience. Most recently, the hospital completed a major re-branding initiative in January 2021. Renaming the hospital, HUMBOLDT PARK HEALTH, to reflect the diverse and inclusive community it serves along with the tagline, “Advancing Health Equity” to emphasize the importance of this objective and HPH’s renewed commitment to ensuring all members of the community have fair and just opportunities to be as healthy as possible, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or zip code.

In 2019, Mr. Sánchez was conferred his second Honorary Doctorate degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine for his contributions to medicine, education, and public health. In 2002, he was conferred an Honorary Doctorate degree from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine in recognition of his immeasurable accomplishments and steadfast commitment to improving the healthcare outcomes for some of the poorest and most disadvantaged populations in New York City.