We are truly grateful for having a wonderful team behind the 2024 Project Control Summit. Following is a list of our great conference team members based on their roles and responsibilities.
John Theis, PMP, MAMP
Role at the Summit: Team Lead & Sponsorship Coordinator
John Theis’s professional journey has shaped him into a versatile specialist in Project Controls, where he has expertly guided projects across the entire lifecycle, from conception to operational excellence. With an illustrious career spanning over 15 years, John’s path has been closely intertwined with the dynamic and demanding landscape of the oil and gas industry, where he has consistently served prominent companies with distinction.
John possesses an innate understanding of the intricate dynamics of this sector, which has fueled his contributions to its growth and innovation. His true passion lies in harnessing his industry acumen and formidable leadership skills to not only meet project objectives but to transcend expectations.
Whether it involves crafting intricate strategies, fostering team cohesion, or navigating the complex terrain of project management, John is unwaveringly dedicated to delivering exceptional value and making a tangible impact in the projects he undertakes. His career is a testament to his commitment to excellence and his ability to drive success in the ever-evolving field of Project Controls.
Sujay Karkhanis, MEng, PMP
Role at the Summit: Technical Sessions Coordinator
Sujay is a seasoned project professional, bringing over two decades of exceptional leadership in project services to the table. His wealth of experience has been cultivated through prominent roles within large multinational resource companies. Currently, he holds the esteemed position of Manager – PMO at Rio Tinto.
Sujay’s expertise shines in his ability to lead diverse project services teams, steering them to triumph in the delivery of mega projects. He is a fervent advocate for the practice of integrated project controls, seamlessly merging various elements to ensure project success.
With a passion for leveraging technology and data analytics in the workplace, Sujay is at the forefront of innovation. He generously shares his wisdom, mentoring graduates and aspiring young professionals, guiding them towards prosperous careers in project controls.
One of Sujay’s key strengths lies in his significant experience in project schedule and cost risk management, a skill set honed through years of hands-on practice. His journey is marked by an unwavering commitment to excellence and a profound understanding of the intricacies of project management in the resource industry.
Abdul Naveed
Role at the Summit: Speakers Coordinator
Abdul Naveed, a Civil Engineer by profession, earned his degree from Mehran University of Engineering and Technology in Pakistan in 2006.
With a remarkable career spanning over 16 years, Abdul Naveed is a seasoned professional in the realm of construction project execution, Project Planning, Monitoring & Controlling, and the adept handling of extension of time claims and cost claims. His wealth of experience is showcased through his contributions to high-value projects across the UAE, Qatar, and Pakistan.
Abdul Naveed is not only a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) but also holds professional memberships with PMI (Project Management Institute) and AACEI (Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering International). His proficiency extends to the mastery of Primavera P6, a testament to his commitment to staying at the forefront of project management tools.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Abdul Naveed is a dedicated advocate for continuous self-development. He generously volunteers at various international events, showcasing his commitment to giving back to the professional community. Furthermore, he nurtures a deep passion for travel and exploration, a passion that has broadened his horizons and enriched his perspective.
Rezvan Nasab
Role at the Summit: Speakers Coordinator
Rezvan is a seasoned project controls manager, boasting a rich and diversified career spanning more than a decade in the construction industry. Armed with a Masters in Industrial Engineering, Rezvan has played instrumental roles in a wide spectrum of projects, ranging from roads and bridges to water and wastewater treatment plants, hospitals, and buildings.
Rezvan’s core competencies center on the meticulous orchestration of project scheduling and cost control. Starting as a scheduler and cost controller, she progressed through the ranks, ultimately attaining the esteemed position of a senior scheduler and later, a project controls manager. This journey is a testament to Rezvan’s profound expertise and unwavering commitment to the craft.
What sets Rezvan apart is her ability to seamlessly transition between Governmental and General Contractor companies, infusing each project with a wealth of diverse experiences. Her multifaceted background and dedication to excellence make Rezvan an indispensable asset to every project they undertake.
Rolando Albuja
Role at the Summit: Sponsors Coordinator
With over 15 years dedicated to the field, Rolando has forged a distinguished career in Project Controls and Project Accounting. His professional journey has led him through diverse domains, including Architecture Firms, Engineering Firms, and his current role in Higher Education, serving Northeastern University from the owner’s perspective.
In his capacity as Associate Director of Project Controls, Rolando bears the pivotal responsibility of overseeing the meticulous collection, precision, reporting, analysis, and management of Capital Project data. He leads the Project Controls group, forging strong partnerships with Project Management teams to ensure that project information encapsulates the complete narrative of the project life cycle. Rolando’s extensive experience and commitment to excellence shine through in his role, making him an invaluable asset to the projects he undertakes.
Oscar Agudelo
Role at the Summit: Networking Coordinator
Oscar, a Project Controls Specialist at Mott Macdonald, specializes in the realm of cost reporting for pipeline and facility projects, alongside proficiency in crafting proposal estimates. His journey with Mott Macdonald spans a productive year, building upon his prior role as a Project Manager Assistant at Power Engineers.
Boasting five years of invaluable experience within the Energy/Oil and Gas sector, Oscar is not only fluent but truly proficient in both Spanish and English, with native-level proficiency in each language. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he remains an active volunteer, generously contributing his time and expertise. Oscar takes great pride in his association with esteemed organizations such as PMI (Project Management Institute) and AACE International, where he continues to enrich his professional network and further elevate his skills.
Sara Taj, PMP, M.Eng.
Role at the Summit: Speakers Coordinator
Sara Taj is a dynamic figure in the field of project control, boasting a PMP certification and more than a decade of specialized expertise in construction and infrastructure planning and scheduling. Her focus extends to diverse domains, including Rail and Transit, Bridges, Roads, and Water and Wastewater Treatment Plants.
As a seasoned lead scheduler, Sara has made a significant impact in her field. She has not only mastered the intricacies of project schedule analysis but also generously shared her knowledge and experience with others. Having trained over 50 project managers, schedulers, and coordinators, Sara is a true advocate for the growth and development of her peers.
Sara’s enthusiasm for the field is palpable. She eagerly anticipates the opportunity to share her valuable insights at the Summit, a platform for professionals to come together and advance the field of project control collectively. Her dedication to elevating project control standards is a testament to her commitment to excellence in her profession.
Devanshu Varia
Role at the Summit: Social Media Management and Networking Coordinator
Devanshu is a seasoned Professional Project Controller with an impressive track record spanning over 5 years, dedicated to the intricacies of Oil & Gas and various Industrial Projects.
A distinguished alumnus of the prestigious Indian Institute of Management, Indore, consistently ranked among the top 5 B-Schools in India, Devanshu has honed his skills to meet the highest industry standards. He further bolstered his expertise by completing an MTech in Construction Management.
Presently, Devanshu is a valued member of the Larsen and Toubro Energy Hydrocarbon team, where he plays a pivotal role in multi-billion-dollar LNG Tank construction projects. Throughout his career, he has seamlessly collaborated with multinational clients, including esteemed names such as Petronet LNG Ltd., Engineers India Limited, Jacobs India Pvt. Ltd., Lucy Electric India Pvt. Ltd., Voltas Ltd., Baxter Pharmaceuticals India Pvt. Ltd., Alpla India Pvt Ltd, and USV Pharmaceutical Ltd. His diverse experience and commitment to excellence shine through in every endeavor he undertakes, making him an invaluable asset to his field.
Clair Camba
Role at the Summit: Speakers Coordinator
Claire possesses an Associate Degree in Computer Science along with an AAS in Construction Management, forming a unique blend of skills. Her career journey commenced in the global electronics manufacturing sector, where she contributed her talents to esteemed companies such as Acer and Omron. It was during a stint in customer service at a home improvement retail store that Claire discovered her passion for the construction industry.
Presently, Claire is in her senior year at the University of Houston, diligently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management. Her commitment to excellence extends beyond the classroom, as she is an active member of both the ABC/AGC Student Chapter and Cougars for Women in Construction (CWIC).
Claire’s practical experience encompasses enriching internships with Fast Track Specialties, LP, Webber, LLC, and RAVA Construction, LLC. This diverse background has equipped her with a multifaceted skill set and a unique perspective that she readily applies to every project.
Claire’s career path, transitioning from electronics manufacturing to construction, may be unconventional, but it has proven to be exceptionally rewarding. Her unwavering dedication to continuous learning and growth in this dynamic industry underscores her commitment to excellence and her desire to make a lasting impact.
Idowu Oyeyemi
Role at the Summit: Admin & Registration
Idowu, a dedicated project controller at Rise Institute Sweden, possesses an unwavering passion for the realms of Energy and the Bio-based economy. Her insatiable thirst for knowledge drives her to constantly seek new horizons and elevate her skill set.
With an impressive eight-year track record in the financial industry, Idowu has demonstrated her versatility through a range of roles spanning finance, project controls, and customer experience. This experience has been garnered through her professional journey in both Nigeria and Sweden, showcasing her adaptability in diverse international contexts.
Idowu’s educational achievements further solidify her expertise. She proudly holds the title of a Certified Chartered Accountant, underlining her financial acumen. Additionally, she has earned a master’s degree in Accounting, a testament to her commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
Currently, as a valuable member of the Rise Institute Sweden team, Idowu’s dedication to her craft and her fervent pursuit of excellence contribute significantly to the institute’s mission and goals. Her journey is marked by an unrelenting drive to make meaningful contributions in her chosen fields.
Sheethal Francis
Role at the Summit: Technical Sessions Coordinator
Sheethal has been a Project Manager at Shorou International for over a decade delivering Business Process Automation solutions to harness the power of real time data extracted from various data sources, control systems and instruments.
These technology implementations and advanced analytics empower business users with Digital Transformation using data applications across the various departments of an organization for better monitoring and tracking of business operations across the Oil and Gas sector in the Middle East.
She holds degrees in Electrical and Electronics Engineering and Business Administration and is a certified Project Management Professional.
Dhruv Jain
Role at the Summit: Sponsors Coordinator
With over a decade of experience in the construction industry, Dhruv stands out as a seasoned professional specializing in public transit infrastructure projects. Currently playing a pivotal role managing the project controls team of one of Eastern Canada’s largest public transit endeavors, Dhruv brings a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to the table.
Dhruv’s journey in the construction sector began with a significant tenure working with General Contractors on projects for the New York City Transit Authority (MTA). During this period, he honed a deep understanding of the complexities inherent in public agency projects, particularly in transit systems and industrial construction. This experience has been instrumental in developing a keen insight into all project stages – from initiation and conception through to design, bidding, planning, execution, and beyond.
A hallmark of Dhruv’s career is his adeptness in managing multifaceted projects. This includes leading the design, execution, and commissioning of a complex, multi-story industrial and railway yard building project, complete with extensive office spaces. This project not only stands as testament to Dhruv’s managerial and technical prowess but also underscores his ability to navigate through the complexities & challenges of the busiest and largest transit systems in North America.
Dhruv is recognized for his comprehensive approach to project management, encompassing crucial aspects such as controls, change management, commissioning, and closing. His skill set is a blend of strategic oversight and practical application, ensuring that every project he undertakes is steered to success, fulfilling both technical requirements and community needs.
Nana Arhin
Role at the Summit: Admin & Registration, Networking Coordinator
Nana Arhin is a dynamic and results-driven project manager renowned for her proficiency in agile/predictive development workflows, stakeholder management, and IT. Her illustrious career has seen her expertly navigate a diverse array of industries, honing a flexible and highly effective approach to project management.
With a profound skill set that encompasses project planning, risk management, quality control, and team collaboration, Nana consistently achieves project success. Her commitment is evident in her dedication to effective stakeholder management, a critical aspect of her project management prowess.
Nana’s unwavering goal is to persistently drive project success while leaving a lasting positive impact on the organizations she collaborates with. Her drive and expertise make her an invaluable asset in the realm of project management.
Kamran Akbarzadeh, PhD, PMP, DTM
CEO, Project Control Academy
Role at the Summit: Conference Co-Chair
Dr. Kamran Akbarzadeh, a distinguished figure in the field of project management, serves as the visionary CEO of the Project Control Academy. He is not only the author of award-winning books, “Leadership Soup” and “Get What You Want,” but also possesses a rich professional background encompassing over 17 years of experience.
Throughout his illustrious career, Kamran has excelled as a project manager, subject matter expert, program leader, and partnership advisor within major corporations. Beyond the corporate world, he has forged a successful path as an entrepreneur and coach, firmly believing in the inherent potential within every individual to lead and achieve their aspirations.
Kamran’s passion lies in coaching and training both individuals and businesses to overcome challenges, fulfill their dreams, and accelerate their growth. In his role as CEO of the Project Control Academy, he steers the institution toward a brighter future, overseeing its strategic direction and executing plans to deliver even greater value to project professionals globally.
Simultaneously, Kamran is dedicated to empowering project professionals, helping them enhance their mindset, refine leadership and interpersonal skills, and thrive in both their personal and professional lives. His impressive educational credentials include a PhD in Chemical Engineering, PMP certification from the Project Management Institute, and the prestigious title of Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) with Toastmasters International. Kamran’s impact on the world of project management and leadership is both profound and far-reaching.
Shohreh Ghorbani, M.Sc., PMP
Founder & Technical Director, Project Control Academy
Role at the Summit: Conference Co-Chair
Shohreh Ghorbani stands as an internationally acclaimed program developer and instructor, specializing in the intricate realm of Project Controls. In her role as the Founder and Technical Director of Project Control Academy, the foremost provider of comprehensive online training programs in project controls and earned value management, Shohreh has transformed the careers of countless professionals.
Through her expert guidance, thousands have elevated their project controls skills to new heights. Shohreh’s teaching prowess is matched by her extensive hands-on experience, spanning a diverse spectrum of project controls technical areas across various industries. Her clients universally acknowledge her as a passionate trainer who excels in simplifying and demystifying the complexities of project controls.
Shohreh’s remarkable contributions to the field were recognized in April 2018 when she was featured as the “Woman in Project Controls” honoree by AACE International Source Magazine. In addition to this accolade, Shohreh holds esteemed titles including a licensed Project Management Professional (PMP) recognized by the Project Management Institute (PMI) and a professional member of the Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering (AACE International). Her commitment to communication excellence is evident through her certification as an “Advanced Communicator Silver” by Toastmasters International.
Behind her impressive credentials lies a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering, underscoring Shohreh’s dedication to academic and professional excellence. Her impact on the world of project controls and education is profound and enduring, making her a true luminary in her field