We are truly grateful for having a wonderful team behind the 2025 Project Control Summit. Following is a list of our conference team members based on their roles and responsibilities.
John Theis, PMP, MAMP
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.
Abdul Naveed
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.
Rolando Albuja
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
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.
Kalkidan Tegene
Kalkidan Tegene is a dedicated Planning Engineer with over two years of experience in the construction industry, currently working at EEIG Construction in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. In her role, she specializes in project scheduling, progress tracking, variance analysis, and ensuring on-time project delivery. She is deeply involved in monitoring and reporting project progress, coordinating meetings, and collaborating with engineering teams to maintain efficiency.
With a background in civil engineering, Kalkidan is an enthusiastic learner passionate about leadership development and sustainable construction practices. As a young African professional, she is committed to continuous growth and innovation in the field of project planning and execution.
Sujay Karkhanis, MEng, PMP
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.
Haider Ali Chughtai, PMP, RMP, CCP
Haider Ali Chughtai is a seasoned engineering professional with over 14 years of progressive experience in construction, engineering, commissioning, and start-up (C&SU) planning & scheduling. His expertise spans enterprise-wide integrated project controls, with a strong emphasis on life cycle project management for Oil & Gas projects ranging from $10 million to $1.5 billion CAD.
Haider has a proven track record in implementing advanced project controls techniques, including Earned Value Measurement (EVM), trending, forecasting, and change management. His experience extends to developing construction work packages, managing tenders, and overseeing contractor performance throughout all project phases. He has played a critical role in creating master schedules, CPM networks, and engineering, procurement, commissioning, turnaround, and shutdown schedules to drive project efficiency and timely execution.
A skilled problem solver and critical thinker, Haider thrives in high-pressure environments, ensuring effective liaison between contractors, engineering teams, and construction management. His leadership skills and ability to motivate teams toward project success have been instrumental in achieving company and project goals.
Devanshu Varia
Jen-al J. Pasil, PMP, is a seasoned Senior Planning Engineer with 16 years of experience in the construction and project management industry. His expertise spans across planning, scheduling, and project controls, ensuring efficient execution of large-scale projects. Throughout his career, he has successfully navigated complex engineering disciplines, working with consultants, contractors, and stakeholders to deliver projects on time and within scope.
Currently based in Al Ula, Saudi Arabia, Jen-al plays a key role in logic network management, progress tracking, baseline schedule updates, and client engagement. His previous experience includes working on construction work packages, earned value management (EVM), delay analysis, claims, and resource allocation, ensuring project efficiency through risk assessment and strategic planning.
A certified Project Management Professional (PMP), Jen-al thrives in high-pressure environments, leveraging his analytical mindset and leadership skills to drive project success. He is adept at using Primavera P6, MS Project, and other project control tools to develop critical schedules, cost forecasts, and risk mitigation strategies. His excellent communication and interpersonal skills allow him to work seamlessly within diverse, cross-cultural teams, fostering collaboration and delivering high-quality project outcomes.
Clair Camba
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.
Mauricio Hernandez, MBA, PMP
Mauricio Hernandez is a seasoned IT and supply chain leader with over 20 years of experience delivering impactful technology solutions and digital transformation initiatives across North America, Latin America, Europe, and Asia. With a deep understanding of IT infrastructure, software development, and ITIL processes, Mauricio has successfully led large-scale IT programs, business interface strategies, and enterprise-wide technology implementations.
Currently serving as a Program Manager at Shell, he plays a key role in program planning, stakeholder management, project performance, and business case preparation. His expertise extends to IT governance, risk management, and supply chain optimization, ensuring technology aligns with organizational values, mindset, and business objectives.
A strategic thinker and mentor, Mauricio is passionate about developing high-performing teams and fostering environments that encourage continuous learning and growth. His leadership style emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and operational excellence, making him a trusted advisor for digital transformation, IT service management, and enterprise resource planning (ERP).
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
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.
Shakeel Ahmed
Shakeel Ahmed is a highly skilled Mechanical Engineer with over 15 years of experience in project management, plant maintenance, and piping engineering. Known for his commitment to excellence, strong work ethic, and effective communication skills, he has successfully led and delivered multiple projects across the oil & gas, energy, and construction sectors.
Currently serving as Manager of the Project Management Office at Ras Al Khaimah Oil Services & Energy Co. Ltd, Shakeel plays a pivotal role in strategic planning, project execution, and process optimization. His expertise extends to brownfield piping, design reviews, technical reporting, and inspection, ensuring project efficiency and compliance with industry standards.
With a strong foundation in SAP, ERP, Primavera P6, and people management, Shakeel thrives in high-pressure environments, balancing multiple priorities while driving projects to successful completion. His ability to collaborate with senior management, associates, and clients has been instrumental in his career progression across leading organizations in Pakistan, Qatar, and the UAE.
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