SMPS NY's State of the AEC Panel Discussion

As we enter 2024, the AEC industry stands at a crucial juncture, with transformative changes sweeping across the globe. From groundbreaking technological innovations to significant shifts in environmental policies and urban development strategies, these factors are redefining the rules of the game. 

The Society for Marketing Professional Services New York Chapter (SMPS-NY) proudly announces its upcoming panel discussion, “State of the AEC Industry,” on January 16th, from 8:30 to 10:30 am, at the Haworth Showroom (125 Park Avenue, Suite 200 New York, NY 10017). This panel discussion offers a timely exploration of these dynamic trends, examining their impact on urban landscapes, sustainability practices, and the evolving needs of communities.

This year’s panel brings together top industry leaders and visionaries to examine the industry’s future. Fred Buscaglia, Executive Director at Savills; Cristina Martinez, Director of Business Development at BALA; Victor Malerba Jr. AIA, Associate Principal at MG2 Architecture; Mara Johnston, Managing Principal at Keystone Global; and Courtney Behm, Director of Sales, Marketing & Communications at Gilbane Building will dissect these pressing topics. Their diverse expertise will shed light on how emerging trends and technological advancements are sculpting the future of our built environment, from the heart of New York to the global stage.

Admission to this event is $70 for SMPS members, $100 for guests and non-members, and $25 for students. Register online here. For updates on chapter initiatives and events, please visit SMPS-NY's website and follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

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Fred Buscaglia, Executive Director - Savills

Fred has 30+ years in construction project management and real estate advisory, handling projects exceeding 10 million sq. ft. and $1 billion. Specializing in large-scale corporate real estate projects for finance, insurance, media, and law, Fred excels in executive oversight, industry trend advising, and constructing holistic real estate solutions. Proficient in relationship management, he assembles dynamic project teams, prioritizes stakeholder views, and achieves success with integrity. Noteworthy achievements include a 220,000 sq. ft. build-out for Twitter and a 240,000 sq. ft. relocation for Carlyle Capital amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Previously, Fred served as Managing Director at JLL, overseeing the interior PM team and major projects like MetLife and Conde Nast's Global Real Estate platform. Before that, he managed his firm, Project 7, and held key roles at Davis Polk & Wardell LLP and Winston & Strawn LLP. A founding member of the ORPM Alliance, Fred is a frequent industry panel speaker.

Cristina Martinez, Director of Business Development - BALA 

Cristina Martinez serves as a Director of Business Development based in Bala’s New York City office, focusing on expanding the firm’s presence throughout the region. She has more than 25 years of industry experience including roles in engineering, marketing and business development. Cristina earned a Master of Engineering degree and a Bachelor of Engineering degree, both from Stevens Institute of Technology, with structural engineering concentrations. Cristina is deeply connected to the local AEC industry and organizations that are meaningful to her. She serves as President of the Board of Directors of the ACE Mentor Program of New Jersey, an organization she began mentoring with over 20 years ago. She also serves on the board of directors of Leadership Newark, Association of Medical Facility Professionals North and Central NJ (AMFP NCNJ) and Stevens Institute of Technology Alumni Association. Cristina was named to Engineering News-Record’s Top 20 Under 40 list and most recently was recognized in 2023 by ROI-NJ as a Women in Business Influencer.

Victor Malerba Jr. AIA, Associate Principal - MG2 Architecture 

Victor, an award-winning architect with nearly two decades of experience, discovered his passion for building and experience design at 16 while working for his uncle's construction company. Holding degrees from the New York Institute of Technology and the Southern California Institute of Architecture, Victor has contributed to diverse projects across the US and Canada, specializing in mixed-use, multi-family, hospitality, and retail development. As a LEED GA-accredited professional, he approaches each project with a future-centric mindset, balancing the big picture and meticulous attention to detail. Leading MG2's NYC office, Victor facilitates global collaboration on mixed-use projects spanning from Calgary and Washington to Colorado and New York.

Mara Johnston, Managing Principal - Keystone Global

Mara Johnston is the Co-Founder and CEO of Keystone Global, an investment banking and advisory firm focused in the construction, architecture, engineering and technology sectors. Mara is responsible for providing innovative capital solutions and growth opportunities be it a strategic acquisition or capital infusion for contractor and technology clients and leading the firm's growing team. Keystone's core focus areas include, but are not limited to, mergers and acquisitions, design/build project finance advisory, capital raise, technology advisory and more.

Courtney Behm, Director of Sales, Marketing & Communications - Gilbane Building

Courtney brings 22 years of business development and marketing experience. Based in NYC, she oversees Global Sales & Marketing Services for Gilbane's New York, Mid-Atlantic, and Federal Divisions, leading a team of 85 professionals. Courtney has driven engagement initiatives, focusing on mentoring, training, and recognition. A Westminster College and Cleveland State University alumna, she is an active member of SMPS Northeast Ohio, the Westminster College Alumni Council, Professional Women in Construction (NYC), and a founding member of the ACE Mentor Program of Cleveland.