Annual ElevateAEC Conference

Brad’s 30+ year career spent working with architecture and engineering (AE) firms includes his most recent role as Partner with TWO CPAs & Consultants, Inc., as well as being a Consultant with PSMJ Resources for 17 years. Additionally, after serving as an outsourced CFO and controller for numerous firms, Brad has deep firsthand knowledge of how to develop and execute successful finance and accounting practices in the AE industry.

Highly skilled at translating accounting terms and best practices into a language his AE clients can easily understand and act on, Brad has a strong track record for helping firms improve profitability, transition ownership, and successfully execute mergers and acquisitions. With enthusiasm and passion, Brad approaches each client relationship holistically, with a focus on understanding overall operations, personal lifestyle goals, and the firm’s future view.

Education

• BS degree in Economics from The Ohio State University
• MBA and Law degrees from Capital University

Professional & Community Highlights

• Certified Management Accountant (CMA)

Ask Brad About

The night he spent with a movie star.

Chad Clinehens is the president and CEO of Zweig Group. Passionate about the business side of design and technical service firms, Chad has built a career on leading them through growth and change. He has worked with AEC firms throughout the U.S. on a variety of needs – strategic business planning, turnarounds, partner separations, organizational restructuring, mergers and acquisitions, marketing and sales, growth campaigns, and more.

As a registered professional engineer, Chad brings an in-depth knowledge of what makes professional service firms and the people who work for them unique. Working in the industry for more than 20 years, he has been involved in many aspects of the business including design, project management, department management, regional office management, and directional leadership. He holds a MBA and BS in Civil Engineering from the University of Arkansas and is a registered professional engineer in several states.

Chad Coldiron is a Principal, and the Director of Development, at Zweig Group, where he helps AEC firms that are experiencing critical leadership transitions. Chad’s passions are focused on all things involving the team and culture-building process, whether it is internally or externally focused. He has coordinated executive searches to fill C-Suite, Board of Directors, and other top-level positions within nationally recognized design firms. His professional background has included experience in the areas of leadership, retention, recruiting, employee experience, sales, risk management, social behaviors and contract negotiation.

Prior to joining Zweig Group, Chad developed and directed the client retention department for one of the fastest growing independent insurance brokerages in the U.S. Since joining Zweig Group as an advisor, he has worked with AEC firms throughout the U.S. on a variety of strategic hiring initiatives as well as organizational restructuring, ownership transition, employee training, marketing, and growth campaigns. He brings a commonsense approach to building the right teams in order maximize the client’s growth potential while driving down their overall cost per hire.

Chad launched his career by developing strong and valuable relationships in the local and professional communities around Northwest Arkansas. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Financial Management from the University of Arkansas’ Walton College of Business. Outside of his work at Zweig Group, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends while engaging the community that raised him. You’ll often hear him say “My life is pretty simple, and I love that”.

Emily is a Vice President at HP Engineering, Inc., a leading engineering firm that provides innovative and sustainable solutions for the AEC industry. She is a certified LEED AP BD+C with over nine years of experience in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) design and construction management.

She leads a team of talented engineers and project managers who deliver high-quality projects for educational, municipal, industrial, government, and corporate clients. She leverages her expertise in communication, collaboration, and execution to ensure the product vision is realized and the client satisfaction is achieved. She is also an active member of CREW Dallas/KC and ASHRAE, where she contributes to the professional development and networking of women and engineers in her field.

Frank Lazaro is a recognized leader in artificial intelligence, innovation, and technology consulting, known for delivering actionable strategies that drive growth and operational efficiency. With over two decades of experience in marketing, technology, and business strategy, Frank has held leadership roles at global brands such as Deloitte and AT&T, accumulating valuable experience across various sectors and industries.

A best-selling author, keynote speaker, and trusted advisor, Frank is the premier voice on the practical application of AI in business. His consulting expertise spans various industries, particularly the AEC sector, where he helps firms adopt AI and emerging technologies to enhance decision-making, streamline processes, and unlock new revenue opportunities.

Frank is also an inventor with multiple US patents for business processes and product design, reflecting his commitment to practical innovation. He’s known for building high-performing teams and delivering measurable outcomes across complex initiatives.

His published works include Finding 12 Minutes: Unlocking Efficiency with Generative AI, AEC Marketer’s Guide to Artificial Intelligence, Let Me Be Frank with You, and Fck Them Turtles – Illusion of Change*. These books highlight his ability to translate complex technology into real-world business value.

Frank’s passion for technology and innovation continues to shape how organizations approach AI transformation. Whether consulting, writing, or speaking, he inspires professionals to think differently, act decisively, and lead with vision.

Gene is Chairman of San Antonio-based Pape-Dawson Engineers. In his previous position as President, he provided

technical management and leadership to the firm’s management team and its employees. From a staff of two 50 years ago, Pape-Dawson now employs more than 450 professionals and has grown into one of the largest and most respected engineering firms in Texas. Gene’s commitment to the engineering profession has been recognized with many accolades including Texas Society of Professional Engineers, Bexar Chapter, Young Engineer of the Year (1991) and the Engineer of the Year (1999); National Association of Homebuilders Member Award and American Society of Landscape Architect Environmental Stewardship Award (2002); Real Estate Council of Texas Philip M. Barshop Founder’s Award (1999).
He serves the profession with memberships in ASCE; NSPE; TSPE, Bexar Chapter, State Director; Professional Engineers in Private Practice; Greater San Antonio Builders Association; and Associated General Contractors of Texas.
Gene’s service to San Antonio is seen in such organizations as: “The Dawson Family” induction into the San Antonio Business Hall of Fame by Junior Achievement; various committees for the City of San Antonio; Real Estate Council of San Antonio; Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce; North San Antonio Chamber of Commerce; UTSA Road Runner Foundation Board; Cancer Therapy and Research Center; Bandera First Bank; San Antonio Christian Schools; Bank of San Antonio Board of Directors; Alamo Bowl, Chairman and Board member; Real Estate Council of Texas; Bexar Land Trust, Inc.; San Antonio Water System; Frost National Bank; Northeast YMCA of San Antonio.
Throughout the impressive growth of Pape-Dawson, the firm continues to serve its clients with integrity, competence, hard work and quality service. Gene also serves his alma mater with the same principles. His university service includes President’s Leadership Council, President’s Circle, President Legacy Council, Lifetime Member of the Javelina Alumni Association. He is a member of the Legacy Society, which recognizes university philanthropists. In recognition of Gene’s Javelina Alumni Association Distinguished Alumni induction, Pape-Dawson, Sam Dawson and Gene made a gift to create the Pape-Dawson Engineers, Inc./Eugene H. Dawson, Jr., P.E. Endowed Engineering Scholarship. Additionally, Gene has established the Eugene H. Dawson, Jr. Endowment for Excellence in Civil Engineering. This gift was matched with Arrington funds to create the Eugene H. Dawson, Jr. Endowed Professorship in Civil Engineering. Currently, Gene is leading the most significant endeavors ever undertaken at the university by serving as the National Campaign Chair of “With You. Without Limits”, the university’s ambitious $100 million comprehensive campaign

With over a decade of experience in the AEC industry, Jeff Adams is a seasoned M&A advisor who helps firms achieve their strategic growth objectives. As Director of SN’s Merger and Acquisitions practice area and Certified M&A Advisor, he leads the M&A team, partnering with architecture, engineering, and construction firms on both the buyer and seller sides to strategically position them for greater future success. Jeff has successfully advised numerous M&A transactions, ensuring smooth and successful transitions for his clients. He also hosts the popular AEC Unscripted: M&A Edition podcast, where he shares insights and best practices with AEC leaders, including executives from ENR Top 500 firms.

During his career, Jeff has gained extensive experience overseeing strategy and operations related to accounting, financial planning, and analysis. Before joining SN, he held an executive leadership role at an engineering firm, where he played a pivotal part in leading his firm through a successful acquisition process.

Jered is responsible for guiding the firm's innovation strategy, including new service line development, technologies, and new ways to expand the firm's offerings to clients. He also oversees the firm’s Information Technology function.

Jered began his career with another firm in Denver, where he primarily focused on private sector land development. Joining Olsson nearly 23 years ago, Jered was a design engineer and project manager in the Land Development (Site/Civil) practice. He opened an office in Minneapolis to lead growth of the firm’s largest client at the time. Jered was later named an Omaha team leader and led efforts to grow the local team and support growth of the Omaha office.

In 2007, Jered was named one of the firm's first practice group leaders, tasked with leading the Land Development practice. In 2016, he created Olsson's Business Development function to lead growth of key clients and oversaw the Marketing and Client Experience groups. Building on that growth, he was tasked with leading the firm’s program strategy, which included oversight of the telecom, power delivery, data center, federal, and rail markets. With the recent re-org, Jered will no longer provide direct oversight of the programs or Sales and Growth but instead focus on innovation and technology.

Jered currently resides in Lincoln with his wife Jamie and their five children. Jered holds degrees in both civil engineering and natural resources and environmental sciences from Kansas State University.

A decorated Air Force combat veteran and seasoned recruiting professional with extensive experience inside corporate, agency and consultant-based recruiting environments, in both domestic and international markets. Deep recruiting expertise across multiple industries to include: Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Retail, CPG, IT/Telecommunications, Energy, Aerospace and others.

Justin Smith, SE, PE, MBA is a subject matter AEC leadership and project management expert with a proven track record of business growth and profitability in diverse and highly technical programs. Having led teams successfully completing high pressure projects throughout the country and internationally, he is no stranger to the challenges that organizational leaders and team leaders in the AEC industry face.

Having held nearly every role that exists in a modern AEC firm, Mr. Smith brings a practitioner’s eye to consulting and training and regularly offers his expertise to firms, universities, and professional organizations looking to develop skills and offerings that provide a competitive advantage for talent. Mr. Smith has consulted on projects and with companies on matters including workplace culture improvement, leadership development challenges, business system implementations, and project leadership for highly technical subject matters.

KP is the visionary Founder and CEO of Shadow Ventures, a powerhouse in technology and innovation in the built environment. Renowned for his expertise, he authored the definitive guide to Building Information Modeling—“BIM for Building Owners and Developers”, What you know about Startups is wrong.”, and his latest book that is helping companies leverage AI to increase their enterprise value, “Creating the Intangible Enterprise: The Critical Skills Required to Thrive in an AI-Driven World”.

With a remarkable track record, KP has founded and successfully exited three technology companies, achieving IPOs on NASDAQ, NYSE, and through private ventures. He has led Enterprise Transformation at Gehry Technologies, and served as General Manager of ATDC at Georgia Tech, one of the nation’s oldest and most respected technology incubators. KP is not just a leader—he’s a game changer, driving the future of our industry with unwavering confidence and strategic insight. He has become the most influential leader of his generation in driving change in some of the oldest industries in the world.

Lynn is a visionary leader celebrated for her unparalleled talent in connecting individuals with transformative opportunities. As an executive well-being coach and career strategist, she empowers a diverse clientele, from innovative startups to Fortune 1-50 companies, inspiring profound personal and professional growth. Her forward-thinking approach extends to her role as a co-founder of pioneering hospitality ventures that prioritize inclusive, family-friendly environments and cultivate vibrant communities. With an accomplished background as an international supply chain executive at Maersk, Home Depot, and Walmart, and credentials as a National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach, Lynn combines bespoke, creative, and holistic methods in both individual and group settings. She revitalizes clients' strengths and energy, facilitating successful transitions and enhancing clarity and excellence in their careers and personal lives.

Mark Zweig is an entrepreneur. He is founder and Chairman of Zweig Group, a three-time listed Inc. 500/5000 management consulting/publishing/media firm and Mark Zweig, Inc., an Inc 500/5000 design/construction/development firm as well. He has authored 13 books on management, and is the former publisher of The Zweig Letter and Civil + Structural Engineer Magazine. He is also a founder/investor and current/past outside director for several other entrepreneurial ventures/non-profits.

Mike is a visionary leader with a passion for advancing not only VHB, but the entire AEC industry as together we face unprecedented opportunities and challenges, from diversifying our workforce to advancing more sustainable, equitable communities. In his ten years as CEO, he has steered the company through a transformational period of strategic growth, geographic expansion, and technological advancement.

Fun fact: A proud Blue Hen, Mike was inducted into the University of Delaware Alumni Wall of Fame in 2022.

Described by his clients as outstanding, effective, and efficient, Peter Grupp engages in a diverse legal practice representing clients in complex corporate transactions. Peter enjoys guiding his clients through multi-faceted business transactions, using his experience to anticipate and protect against hurdles and pitfalls, and navigate his clients to a successful closing.

Peter focuses his corporate practice in mergers and acquisitions, primarily in the professional services industries. As part of Lawson & Weitzen’s transaction team, Peter has helped close over 100 acquisitions, serving as the lead transaction attorney for many of them. Recently, Peter has helped close multiple private equity recapitalizations of prominent engineering firms throughout the country.

Peter represents clients spanning a number of industries, including: Architecture, Professional Engineering, Land Surveying, Geology and Environmental Consulting, Tech, and Alcoholic Beverage Supply/Wholesale.

Scott is an AE industry veteran with 30 years of experience in strategy, marketing, and business development. As a former Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer for a mid-sized engineering firm, Scott brings a unique perspective to his client work, delivering first-hand industry insight and knowledge.

Scott is a sought-after national speaker who has presented for numerous industry organizations including ACEC, AIA, ASCE, NCSEA, PSMJ, ROG, SDA, SMPS, and USGBC. A prolific writer, Scott has authored 15 books and written numerous ebooks, white papers, and blogs, including his Marketropolis blog for Engineering News-Record. He is a past president of the SMPS Foundation, an AEC research-focused nonprofit organization, and has served on the national board of directors for the Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS). In addition to being a Fellow of SMPS, Scott is also a Certified Professional Services Marketer.

Prior to joining Stambaugh Ness, Scott was the owner/principal of Aecumen, LLC, a firm providing consulting, facilitation, and training for AEC companies.

Education

• BS degree in Marketing from The Pennsylvania State University
• Certificate in Professional Photography from the New York Institute of Photography

Professional Highlights

• National AE Industry Presenter
• Society of Marketing Professional Services, Fellow
• SMPS Foundation, Former Trustee and President
• Forty Under 40, Central Penn Business Journal
• Outstanding Alumnus of the Year, Leadership York

Community Highlights

• Sitting Vice President of Marketing and Development for the Northern Central Railway, a nonprofit excursion railroad in southern York County. (Formerly known as Steam Into History.)
• Former President and Director of Historic York, Inc.
• Former Director of the York County Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Former Director of the American Red Cross – York County Chapter
• Former Secretary and Director of Leadership York
• Former Vice President and Director of Main Street York
• Former Task Force Member for William C. Goodridge Freedom House & Underground Railroad Museum

Scott Cattran is the Executive Chairman of Woolpert. In this position, Scott supports the company, the CEO, and the leadership team with strategy, operations, and culture. Scott recruited his successor and worked with him for 4 years in a planned succession. From 2015-2025, Scott was President and CEO of Woolpert. In this position, Scott was responsible for setting the vision and strategy of the company, developing and strengthening a strong trust-built culture, achieving company long-term strategic goals, meeting the annual business plan, and making Woolpert a Great Place to Work for all employees.

To date, under Scott’s leadership, Woolpert has been rated a great place to work by employee’s 9 years in a row, expanded globally (from 500 to 2800 people), moved 95 spots up the ENR (from #134 to #39), closed 15 successful acquisitions, grown organically ~10%+ per year, ~10x’d profits, and ~20x’d share price.

As President and Chief Executive Officer, Steve champions the Stambaugh Ness client experience and is the driving force behind our firm’s strategic marketing and business development initiatives. A big believer of encouraging and supporting the growth and success of employees, Steve led us towards the adoption of a firm-wide strengths-based program. This unique program focuses on developing an individual’s talents and delivers positive benefits for both our employees and our clients.

Understanding the importance of anticipating the needs of our clients, Steve spearheads the development of strategic partner relationships with organizations that provide services that complement our menu of client solutions. Additionally, Steve serves as chief liaison between Stambaugh Ness and the BDO Alliance USA, of which we are an independent member.

Steve also serves as the Managing Partner of Stambaugh Ness TechSolutions, LLC, one of the nation’s leading Deltek Premier Partners and a leading technology consulting firm.

But don’t let the CPA stereotype fool you, if he wasn’t brainstorming innovative ways to meet the needs of clients, Steve would be touring the world as a drummer in a rock band.

Tom joined Zweig Group after a 19-year career as the Chief Operating Officer of a Washington DC-based engineering company. In that role, he was responsible for the business operations of a multi-office firm, to include oversight of the finance, accounting, human resources, information technology, facilities, and legal functions. Tom was a member of the firm’s Executive Committee and helped guide it through two economic shocks (the 2008 Great Recession and the 2020 Covid Crisis), an ownership transition from founders to the 2nd generation of leaders, and periods of high growth. Prior to this, he held operations and management roles in the telecommunication industry and served on active duty as a nuclear power-trained Submarine Warfare Officer in the United States Navy.

Systems thinking is a particular area of interest for Tom. He brings a strong understanding of the complex interactions between clients, employees, and the economic/business goals of AEC firms.

Tom holds a MBA from the University of North Carolina, and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Duke University.

Over the last 19 years, Tracey has completed valuations ranging from small businesses to multi-million dollar operating companies to holding companies with a variety of assets.  She has worked in the industry since 2010 and specializes in valuations for architecture, engineering and planning firms. Assignments include companies in the United States, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Spain.  Additionally, Tracey serves as an expert witness on business valuation litigation matters. Tracey holds the senior-level Certified Business Appraiser (CBA) designation conferred by The Institute of Business Appraisers, the Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA) designation conferred by the National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts, the Business Certified Appraiser (BCA) designation conferred by the International Society of Business Appraisers, and the Certified Machinery and Equipment Appraiser (CMEA) designation conferred by the NEBB Institute. Tracey currently serves as the co-chair of the International Society of Business Appraisers’ Board of Governors.  She holds a BS from Louisiana Tech University and an MBA from the University of Arkansas, Sam M. Walton College of Business.  She is a member of the Institute of Business Appraisers, NACVA, the NEBB Institute, and the International Society of Business Appraisers.

https://zweiggroup.com/pages/will-swearingen

A firm believer that complacency breeds failure, Ying is driven by innate curiosity and life-long learning with a growth mindset. She is passionate about leading with purpose, inclusion, and authenticity. With over 13 years of diverse experience in the AEC industry, Ying has served in various capacities including strategic planning, design, and implementation; marketing and business development; CRM operations and commercial pipeline; client team management and capture win plans; as well as proposal development and oversight. Her unique strengths lie within her ability to integrate tactical thinking and strategic insights into business planning and capture qualitative and quantitative components to convey a cohesive message.

Prior to joining Zweig Group in 2022, Ying served as the Deputy Chief Strategy and Growth Officer for the US Operations of a Paris-based multinational architectural and engineering consulting firm specializing in public transportation and mobility solutions. Recognized as an innovative strategist who can integrate multiple perspectives into a shared vision, Ying was promoted to this growth-focused strategic role at the onset of COVID to partner with C-suite executives and cross-functional teams to develop a 2-3 year strategic plan for organizational survival and return to growth. She was also responsible for managing the implementation and execution effort of the strategic plan by facilitating regular performance reviews against pre-established KPIs to drive organizational growth and profitability.

Ying holds an MBA with a concentration in management and strategies and a Bachelor of Business Administration in international marketing, both degrees from the City University of New York (CUNY) Baruch College. Spurred by simple curiosity and a genuine interest in sustainability, Ying obtained her LEED AP BD+C credential in 2021. She is also multilingual - fluent in English, Korean, and Chinese, with intermediate proficiency in French and Japanese.