Following is the agenda for Project Control Summit Summit 2024 which will be held in Galveston Island, Texas, USA from April 22 to 24, 2024. Expect three days filled with insightful learning and networking opportunities with leading experts in Project Controls and technology.
Day 1: Monday, April 22, 2024
10:00 am to 12:00 pm US Central Time
Technical Workshop: Implementing an Integrated Project Controls Process
- April 22, 2024, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm US Central Time
- Level 1, Yacht Room
We’re delighted to spotlight a not-to-be-missed technical workshop led by Chris Carson, Enterprise Director of Program & Project Controls at Arcadis and an industry thought leader. This complimentary workshop, exclusive to Summit attendees, promises to enrich your understanding of integrated project controls.
Titled “Implementing an Integrated Project Controls Process”, this 2-hour session dives deep into how a cohesive approach across seven project phases can significantly enhance the likelihood of successful project delivery. During this interactive workshop, Chris will navigate you through each phase, from pre-project design to post-construction, highlighting the critical services required to achieve seamless progression.
This is an extraordinary opportunity to learn from collective expertise and gain actionable insights that could reshape the way you implement project controls.
1:00 pm to 8:00 pm US Central Time
Registration Desk Open
- April 22, 2024, 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm US Central Time
- Pre-function Area, Level 2
Registrations for the conference will commence at 1:00 pm on the first day at the Galveston Island Convention Center, specifically in the pre-function area on the second floor. When you register, you’ll be provided with your conference badge, which is essential for participation in different segments of the conference. This includes social activities, the welcome reception, technical sessions, access to the exhibition hall, etc. We strongly recommend arriving on the first day and registering early to ensure you’re all set to engage in the upcoming activities.
2:00 pm to 4:30 pm US Central Time
Social Activities
- April 22, 2024, 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm US Central Time
- Pre-function Area, Registration Desk
Get ready to add some excitement and enjoyment to your Project Control Summit 2024 experience by registering for one of our two thrilling social events! Taking place in the afternoon of the first day of the conference, these social events are designed to create a lively and inclusive atmosphere where you can relax, mingle, and build connections with fellow attendees, sponsors, and speakers.
4:30 pm to 6:00 pm US Central Time
Exhibition Hall Open & Networking
- April 22, 2024, 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm US Central Time
- Exhibition Hall, Level 2
The Technology & Tools Expo, located in the Exhibition Hall, will be open for exploration starting at 4:30 pm on the first day of the conference. This is an excellent opportunity to discover tools, technologies, and solutions that can elevate your projects and organizational success to new heights. Additionally, the Exhibition Hall will serve as a networking hub where you can connect with fellow conference attendees and exhibitors. This networking session will last until 6:00 pm, at which point we will commence the Welcome Reception.
6:00 pm to 8:00 pm US Central Time
Welcome Reception
- April 22, 2024, 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm US Central Time
- Pre-function Area, Level 2
The Welcome Reception is a key highlight and tone-setter for our conference, offering a warm and welcoming environment for all participants. It acts as a prime platform for networking and socializing, enabling you to connect with fellow project professionals, sponsors, speakers, and industry leaders. We invite you to an enjoyable evening filled with live music, complimentary drinks and snacks, and the chance to win exciting prizes. This event is not just an introduction to the conference but a valuable opportunity to forge meaningful connections in a fun and engaging atmosphere.
Day 2: April 23, 2024
7:30 am to 10:00 pm
Conference Opening & Keynote
5 Golden Rules for Setting Sail for Success in Project Controls
- April 23, 7:30 am to 9:00 am Central Time
- Conference Hall, General Sessions Track
On Day Two of Project Control Summit 2024, Shohreh Ghorbani and Kamran Akbarzadeh, the Directors of Project Control Academy and your hosts for this grand conference, will kick things off with an official welcome. Following this, Shohreh will take the stage for the opening keynote address. This much-anticipated session is designed to spark inspiration and set the stage for what’s to come, encouraging attendees to fully engage with the event’s rich offerings. The theme of Shohreh’s keynote, guaranteed to captivate and provide profound insights, will be unveiled shortly. Be prepared for an opening that promises to not only set the tone but also significantly enhance your summit experience.
Larry Dysert
Cost Estimating Thought Leader, Owner, Conquest Consulting Group
Cost Estimating Best Practices to Enhance Decision-Making
- April 23, 9:00 am to 10:00 am Central time
- Conference Hall, General Sessions Track
This session arms you with the knowledge to craft detailed and reliable project cost estimates. You’ll learn the best practices that underpin financial feasibility assessments and how to use cost estimating as a strategic tool for budgeting, resource allocation, and risk management. This session is designed to give you a robust foundation in cost estimation, allowing you to lead with confidence and make decisions that align with strategic objectives.
AI, Augmented Reality, and Data Analytics in Project Controls
- April 23, 9:00 am to 10:00 am Central time
- Yacht Room, Technology Sessions Track
In this session, you will learn how AI and data analytics can offer real-time interaction with project data like Primavera P6, while exploring the immersive capabilities of Apple’s new Vision Pro Headset for field reporting, project planning, safety training, and on-site inspections.
Panel Discussion: Project Controls Technology Advancements
- April 23, 10:15 am to 11:15 am Central Time
- Conference Hall, General Sessions Track
Join this panel of industry leaders for a dynamic discussion on “Project Controls Technology Advancements,” where you’ll gain insights into the latest innovations revolutionizing project controls. Learn about the transformative impact of AI, machine learning, and data analytics, and discover tools that are redefining efficiency and accuracy in project controls. This expert-led session is a must-attend for those looking to stay ahead in the ever-evolving field of project controls.
Predictive Planning: How AI-enabled RAID logs create project resilience
- April 23, 10:15 am to 11:15 am Central Time
- Yacht Room, Technology Sessions Track
Join this session to gain practical knowledge on using RAID logs, enhanced by AI, for robust project management. Learn to identify and manage risks proactively, and leave equipped to implement your own RAID log with confidence. This is an opportunity to transform project challenges into success, backed by expert insights and essential resources.
Driving Technology and Innovation into Project Controls
How to Bridge the Gap Between Project Controls & Project Management
- April 23, 11:15 am to 12:15 pm Central
- Conference Hall, General Sessions Track
Join this session to explore how you can streamline your project management process by integrating cutting-edge technologies including AI into Project Controls. You’ll learn to centralize data for improved decision-making, apply machine learning for predictive accuracy, and enhance risk identification. This will not only improve your project delivery but also position you as an innovator driving the project controls industry forward through smarter collaboration and advanced analytics.
Vesna Hristova
Key Account Manager, Synami
Why Projects Fail: Enabling Efficient Project Communication
- April 23, 11:15 am to 12:15 pm Central Time
- Yacht Room, Technology Sessions Track
Join us for a session that will be focusing on a key factor contributing to project failures: communication challenges. In this session, we’ll look at how innovative software tools are employed to address these challenges and improve project success rates.
Panel Discussion: Project Controls from an Owner-Contractors Perspective
- April 23, 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm Central Time
- Conference Hall, General Sessions Track
Join this panel discussion to gain a dual perspective on “Project Controls from an Owner & Contractor Perspective.” This engaging session brings together key industry figures to discuss the distinct challenges and strategies employed by both owners and contractors in project controls. You’ll explore the nuances of project controls from each perspective, uncovering how each side approaches their unique challenges, methodologies, and collaborative strategies in project controls.
You will leave with enhanced knowledge and strategies to navigate project controls effectively, no matter which side of the table they are on.
Geoff Ryan
CEO & AWP Facilitator, Insight-AWP
Advanced Work Packaging (AWP) for Project Controls
- April 23, 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm Central Time
- Yacht Room, Technology Sessions Track
A common description of Project Controls is that it is like trying to drive a car by looking in the rear view mirror. While this is a fairly accurate narrative of most projects, the relationship between cause and effect can be captured in real time, if you have the right foundation. Advanced Work Packaging is the wire frame that provides the correct structure. AWP dissects projects into manageable work packages and then synchronizes them across Engineering, Procurement and Construction to form a single language of work packages for the whole project. This insightful session will walk you through the application of AWP and teach you Why and How you should do it.
Dr. Saleh Mubarak
Construction Project Management Thought Leader
The Art of Simplified Scheduling
How Craft Simplified, Clear, and Actionable Schedules That Your Entire Team Can Follow With Ease
- April 23, 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm Central Time
- Conference Hall, General Sessions Track
Join this session to gain the skills to simplify complex project schedules. Learn to clarify activities, manage resources efficiently, and maintain clear schedules. Perfect for project professionals aiming for efficiency and precision in their planning processes. Join us to streamline your approach and enhance project execution.
Manager of Project Controls, Risk & Decision Management at Integrated Project Services
Application Of Strategic Decision Quality On Tactical Decisions – A Risk Management Approach
- April 23, 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm Central Time
- Yacht Room, Technology Sessions Track
In this session, delve into the parallels between sailboat racing and project decision-making as we explore strategic planning, agile change management, and Tactical Decision Management. Discover the importance of assessing decision quality, leveraging guiding principles to drive informed dialog and data-driven choices for better project outcomes.
Rick Gillis
Career Strategist, Speaker & Author
Your Work Does Not Speak For Itself—You Do
- April 23, 3:45 pm to 4:45 pm Central Time
- Conference Hall, General Sessions Track
Join this empowering session to learn how to articulate and quantify your worth in the workplace using the groundbreaking QTNT® method. Discover practical techniques, real-world case studies, and the QTNT Personal Value Calculation process to confidently advocate for your value and drive your career narrative forward. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned professional, this presentation offers invaluable insights for anyone seeking fair recognition and compensation. Don’t miss out on transforming your career trajectory – join us and unlock your full potential.
Panel Discussion: Help Wanted - Leveraging Project Controls to Maximize Your Workforce
- April 23, 3:45 pm to 4:45 pm Central Time
- Yacht Room, Technology Sessions Track
Join this session to explore strategies for addressing pressing project control issues in the dynamic construction labor market. Discover how InEight solutions optimize workforce management, streamline onboarding, and enhance productivity. Explore key points, including workforce shortages, technology leverage, productivity improvement, and collaborative work planning. Gain actionable insights to empower your projects in the competitive construction market.
Dr. Kamran Hazini
Deputy Director of Risk Engineering
Sound Transit
The Overlooked Risks in Program Dynamics: Unveiling the Novelty of Programmatic Quantitative Risk Assessment (PQRA)
- April 23, 4:45 pm to 5:45 pm Central Time
- Conference Hall, General Sessions Track
In this session, delve into the nuanced domain of project management and the often-overlooked interactions between risks across multiple projects within a program. Learn about the critical nature of Programmatic Quantitative Risk Assessments (PQRAs) and their role in identifying, managing, and mitigating risks not just at the project level, but more broadly across programs. Understand how an advanced Programmatic QRA process can lead to proactive risk management, smarter decision-making, and a greater likelihood of programmatic success, ultimately transforming the practice of project management.
Building Schedule Dashboards
- April 23, 4:45 pm to 5:45 pm Central Time
- Yacht Room, Technology Sessions Track
In this session, you will learn how to craft schedule dashboards that drive project success by selecting the right KPIs aligned with objectives and stakeholder needs, and designing informative, user-friendly interfaces for quick decision-making and progress tracking.
Networking & Special Awards Dinner Gala
- April 23, 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm Central Time
- Conference Hall
The Special Awards Dinner Gala promises to be an unforgettable evening filled with fine dining, entertainment, and the company of esteemed professionals and industry leaders. This is a rare opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, forge new relationships, and celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of our community. The Awards Dinner Gala is exclusive to the Conference attendees.
Day 3: April 24, 2024
7:30 am to 5:00 pm US Central Time
Kamran Akbarzadeh
CEO, Project Control Academy
Closing Keynote: SAIL to Success
Your Compass for Project Excellence
- April 24, 7:30 am to 9:00 am Central Time
- Conference Hall, General Sessions Track
In the voyage of project management, navigating toward success demands more than just a skilled hand; it requires a compass that guides you through both calm and turbulent waters. This keynote invites you to chart a course that places you, the project professional, at the center of this journey. Embrace the winds of change and innovation as we explore how to anchor your projects in strategic vision and leadership. Discover how to steer through challenges with agility and how to captain your team towards a legacy of project triumphs.
AI won’t take your job, A Risk Manager with AI will!
How to Bridge the Gap Between Project Controls & Project Management
- 9:00 am to 10:00 am Central Time
- Conference Hall, General Sessions Track
During the session on AI’s role in risk management, you’ll be equipped to elevate your projects with AI as your strategic partner, speeding up your workflow and enhancing output. You’ll gain practical skills for implementing AI, backed by AECOM’s real-world applications, boosting your ability to apply these innovations confidently. Additionally, you’ll learn to articulate the benefits and address any AI concerns with stakeholders, ensuring you’re adept at navigating the digital landscape and ready to drive change within your organization.
Clear Eyes, Full Hearts, Can't Lose: Approaching Technology Adoption with a Mindset To Succeed
- April 24, 9:00 am to 10:00 am Central Time
- Yacht Room, Technology Sessions Track
Unlock the secrets to driving transformative change in your organization through cutting-edge technology adoption. Delve into the common pitfalls hindering technology adoption efforts, and gain valuable insights on fostering a proactive mindset rooted in clarity, commitment, and resilience. Join this engaging session, drawing from 16 years of expertise in selling, buying, and implementing construction technology solutions, to master the art of assessing your company’s readiness for change, effectively selling the vision, overcoming resistance, and choosing the ideal technology partner.
Chris Carson
Director of Program & Project Controls, Vice President, Arcadis
Historical Cost Benchmarking & Forecasting Escalation Costs for Estimates – What Are the Reliable Resources
- April 24, 10:15 am to 11:15 am Central Time
- Conference Hall, General Sessions Track
Project Controls Practitioners face complex cost estimating challenges, from quick conceptual estimates with minimal scope, like AACE Class 5, to assessing costs for similar projects in different locations. Accuracy is crucial, especially when future purchases could affect a contractor’s fixed bid due to project duration. The key lies in cost benchmarking and escalation indices — practical tools that utilize empirical data for reliability over vague line item costing. This session promises to shed light on historical cost trends and forecasting. You will gain access to valuable resources and insights into leveraging reliable cost data to refine their estimating strategies.
Michael Pink
Founder & CEO, SmartPM
The Current and Future State of Project Controls in Construction
- April 24, 10:15 am to 11:15 am
- Yacht Room, Technology Sessions Track
The construction industry’s project controls are transitioning from traditional to tech-driven methods, raising questions about overcoming challenges, staying ahead of the curve, and ensuring workforce well-being. This session aims to guide this shift by examining the historical evolution of project controls, emphasizing the crucial role of data in modern project management, and discussing the integration of technologies like AI. It will offer strategies to smoothly implement these changes, ensuring project success, budget adherence, and employee satisfaction.
Russell Stevens
Director Solutions Consultant, Contruent
- April 24, 11:15 am to 12:15 pm
- Conference Hall, General Sessions Track Sessions Track
Making MegaMoves: Mastering Capital Analytics for Megaproject Success
Embark on a transformative journey as Russell delves into the complexities of establishing successful project analytics practices amid the global expansion of mega construction projects. Join this session to gain insights, explore industry challenges, and discover best practices for implementing a capital analytics approach that ensures significant ROI across projects.
Computer Vision: How AI Is Automating Progress Tracking
- April 24, 11:15 am to 12:15 pm Central Time
- Yacht Room, Technology Sessions Track
Join this to discover how AI, ML, and computer vision are revolutionizing construction progress tracking, reducing time spent by 95% while enhancing accuracy. Gain insights into the integration of computer vision with BIM, Schedule, and rules of credit, and learn how these technologies can augment coordination and budget workflows for better alignment with project team members.
Panel Discussion: Future Landscape of Project Controls
- April 24, 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm Central Time
- Conference Hall, General Sessions Track
Join this panel discussion to explore how emerging technologies are set to redefine traditional project control mechanisms. Leave the session with a rich understanding of upcoming trends and the knowledge to adapt to and lead within the future project controls paradigm.
Discover The Power Of The Algorithmic As-Built Schedule
- April 24, 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm Central Time
- Yacht Room, Technology Sessions Track
Unlock the mystery of the as-built critical path with the revolutionary concept of the Algorithmic As-Built Schedule. This innovative approach transforms project timeline analysis by leveraging fully progressed updates to reveal a clear, algorithm-driven path. Join us as we delve into the practicalities and benefits of this method, which is poised for inclusion in the next revisions of standards in ASCE 67-17, RP 29R-03, and the SCL Protocol. Discover how this innovative approach can revolutionize your project analyses, offering clarity, efficiency, and enhanced control over your project timelines.
Michael Nosbisch
Project Controls Director,
Strategic Management Solutions
Beyond the Basics: EVM for Next-Level Cost and Schedule Forecasts
- April 24, 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm Central Time
- Conference Hall, General Sessions Track
Discover how to harness the full potential of Earned Value Management (EVM) to not just analyze past project performance, but to predict future cost and schedule outcomes with greater accuracy. In this session, you’ll learn from a seasoned expert with over 35 years of experience in the federal and commercial sectors, how to use EVM for developing trend-based forecasts that outperform traditional bottom-up estimates. You’ll walk away with actionable strategies to improve your forecasting techniques, sharpen your decision-making, and confidently communicate critical project insights to your stakeholders, ensuring your projects stay on track and within budget.
Navigating the Challenges of Executive Reporting: A Practical Guide
- April 24, 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm Central Time
- Yacht Room, Technology Sessions Track
Join us to learn how to overcome the common obstacles in executive reporting and leverage it as a key differentiator in your business.
The Project Controls "Jeopardy" Show
- April 24, 3:45 pm to 4:30 pm Central Time
- Conference Hall, General Sessions Track
We’ve kept the best for the last! Engage in the “Project Controls Jeopardy Show” for an educational twist on the classic game show. Test your project controls knowledge, compete with peers, and enjoy a spirited and informative session that mixes fun with professional learning. This interactive experience is ideal for those looking to enhance their expertise in an engaging and memorable setting
A Surprise!
Will be revealed at the conference!
Prize Giveaways and Closing
- April 24, 4:30 pm to 5:00 pm Central Time
- Conference Hall
Don’t leave the conference early as you will miss the fun closing and prize giveaways before we say good byes!