Cherif Algreatly
Designi.ai
Founder
Cherif Algreatly is the Founder and CEO of Designi, a serial entrepreneur with one successful exit in construction tech, he brings over 18 years of experience driving software innovation in the AEC industry. He is a licensed architect in California and New York and holds more than 40 issued patents. Built for the AEC industry, Designi is an AI-powered platform that helps home builders streamline the entire design-to-build process, from automated floor plan generation to material specifications, code compliance, and instant cost estimation for faster, more accurate decision-making.
Designi.ai
Founder
Cherif Algreatly is the Founder and CEO of Designi, a serial entrepreneur with one successful exit in construction tech, he brings over 18 years of experience driving software innovation in the AEC industry. He is a licensed architect in California and New York and holds more than 40 issued patents. Built for the AEC industry, Designi is an AI-powered platform that helps home builders streamline the entire design-to-build process, from automated floor plan generation to material specifications, code compliance, and instant cost estimation for faster, more accurate decision-making.
Genevieve Benson
Milesbrand
Director of Strategic Partnerships
Genevieve Benson is a dynamic force in sales and marketing within the new home industry, blending over a decade of expertise with an innate ability to foster innovation and spark growth. As Director of New Business at Milesbrand, she forges enduring strategic partnerships with leading home builders and developers across the country. Her tailored marketing strategies elevate brand visibility and fuel revenue for some of the nation’s most desirable residential communities and home builders. Named to Pro Builder’s Forty Under 40 in 2024, Genevieve is recognized as a thought leader and frequent speaker at both local and national conferences. She is an active community advocate, having served more than seven years on the Professional Women in Building Council and as a Board Member for Denver’s Inner City School.
Milesbrand
Director of Strategic Partnerships
Genevieve Benson is a dynamic force in sales and marketing within the new home industry, blending over a decade of expertise with an innate ability to foster innovation and spark growth. As Director of New Business at Milesbrand, she forges enduring strategic partnerships with leading home builders and developers across the country. Her tailored marketing strategies elevate brand visibility and fuel revenue for some of the nation’s most desirable residential communities and home builders. Named to Pro Builder’s Forty Under 40 in 2024, Genevieve is recognized as a thought leader and frequent speaker at both local and national conferences. She is an active community advocate, having served more than seven years on the Professional Women in Building Council and as a Board Member for Denver’s Inner City School.
Lisa Copeland
KAA Design Group Inc
CFO
Lisa Copeland is the Chief Financial Officer & Senior Associate at KAA Design located in Los Angeles, California. She received her bachelor’s degree from Northwestern University and MBA from Kellogg School of Management. Lisa oversees KAA’s operational and financial reporting/processes, provides long and short-term financial planning and budgeting, develops the firm’s financial strategies, and provides risk management. Prior to joining KAA, she worked in the banking, construction, real estate and development industries. She served as a former bank examiner for the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. She has formed a local CFO Roundtable group which is comprised of other local design firms within the Los Angeles area with the united goal to create Best Practices within the industry. She currently serves as the Board Treasurer for the non-profit organization artworxLA.
KAA Design Group Inc
CFO
Lisa Copeland is the Chief Financial Officer & Senior Associate at KAA Design located in Los Angeles, California. She received her bachelor’s degree from Northwestern University and MBA from Kellogg School of Management. Lisa oversees KAA’s operational and financial reporting/processes, provides long and short-term financial planning and budgeting, develops the firm’s financial strategies, and provides risk management. Prior to joining KAA, she worked in the banking, construction, real estate and development industries. She served as a former bank examiner for the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. She has formed a local CFO Roundtable group which is comprised of other local design firms within the Los Angeles area with the united goal to create Best Practices within the industry. She currently serves as the Board Treasurer for the non-profit organization artworxLA.
Tanya Cromwell
Idaho Home Design/Caddis Builders LLC
Owner/Managing Partner
Tanya Cromwell has been in the residential industry for 30 years in the Eastern Idaho area. Her design firm, Idaho Home Design, produced drawings for 125 homes a year as well as the renderings for the local Parade of Homes magazine. She also became a contractor 15 years ago and is one of the founding and managing owners of Caddis Builders LLC, encompassing multifamily, spec homes, and custom homes, as well as land development. She was the first female president for both the local and Idaho state builders association chapters and currently serves as Idaho’s representative to the National Association of Home Builders, as a Trustee for the National Professional Women in Building Board, and as a Build Pac trustee. In 2025 she was named NAHB’s Woman of the Year.
Idaho Home Design/Caddis Builders LLC
Owner/Managing Partner
Tanya Cromwell has been in the residential industry for 30 years in the Eastern Idaho area. Her design firm, Idaho Home Design, produced drawings for 125 homes a year as well as the renderings for the local Parade of Homes magazine. She also became a contractor 15 years ago and is one of the founding and managing owners of Caddis Builders LLC, encompassing multifamily, spec homes, and custom homes, as well as land development. She was the first female president for both the local and Idaho state builders association chapters and currently serves as Idaho’s representative to the National Association of Home Builders, as a Trustee for the National Professional Women in Building Board, and as a Build Pac trustee. In 2025 she was named NAHB’s Woman of the Year.
Carla Ferreira
The Aurora Highlands
Managing Principal
Carla Ferreira is the chief executive officer of The Aurora Highlands, a 4,000-acre master-planned community near Denver, Colo. She leads all aspects of the development, including land planning, construction, home builder relations, and public art, the force behind the community’s award-winning Art in the Park program. She works with national home builders to create housing options across a range of price points and collaborates with local, regional, and state officials to support smart growth. She is active in philanthropy, supporting organizations such as the Global Citizen Foundation and Christian Aid International. She was named an Outstanding Woman in Business by the Denver Business Journal in 2023.
The Aurora Highlands
Managing Principal
Carla Ferreira is the chief executive officer of The Aurora Highlands, a 4,000-acre master-planned community near Denver, Colo. She leads all aspects of the development, including land planning, construction, home builder relations, and public art, the force behind the community’s award-winning Art in the Park program. She works with national home builders to create housing options across a range of price points and collaborates with local, regional, and state officials to support smart growth. She is active in philanthropy, supporting organizations such as the Global Citizen Foundation and Christian Aid International. She was named an Outstanding Woman in Business by the Denver Business Journal in 2023.
Tomas Garcia
Arx
CEO/Co-Founder
Tomas is Co-Founder & CEO of Arx, an AI-driven real estate analytics platform that automatically underwrites the future potential of millions of properties in advance, empowering developers, investors, and agents to source and evaluate optimal investment & development opportunities in seconds.
Arx
CEO/Co-Founder
Tomas is Co-Founder & CEO of Arx, an AI-driven real estate analytics platform that automatically underwrites the future potential of millions of properties in advance, empowering developers, investors, and agents to source and evaluate optimal investment & development opportunities in seconds.
Dr. Megan Gerhardt, Ph.D.
Miami University
Professor of Management and Leadership
Megan W. Gerhardt, Ph.D., is a Professor of Management and Leadership at Miami University's Farmer School of Business. In addition to her academic work, she consults and speaks with leading organizations worldwide on leveraging generational diversity in the workplace and is the author of Gentelligence: A Revolutionary Approach to Leading an Intergenerational Workforce. Her Gentelligence framework was featured as Harvard Business Review's Big Idea in March 2022 and selected for Harvard Business Review's Top 10 Must Reads for 2024. Through her work (www.gentelligence.org), Dr. Gerhardt focuses on harnessing individual differences to drive impact and exceptional performance.
Miami University
Professor of Management and Leadership
Megan W. Gerhardt, Ph.D., is a Professor of Management and Leadership at Miami University's Farmer School of Business. In addition to her academic work, she consults and speaks with leading organizations worldwide on leveraging generational diversity in the workplace and is the author of Gentelligence: A Revolutionary Approach to Leading an Intergenerational Workforce. Her Gentelligence framework was featured as Harvard Business Review's Big Idea in March 2022 and selected for Harvard Business Review's Top 10 Must Reads for 2024. Through her work (www.gentelligence.org), Dr. Gerhardt focuses on harnessing individual differences to drive impact and exceptional performance.
Allison Guido
Amar Building + Remodeling Co. Inc.
Owner/CEO
Allison Guido is the CEO and Owner of Almar Building and Remodeling, a leading residential remodeling firm in the Boston Metro Area. She stepped into the family business in 2002, becoming the third generation to lead the company. Over the past 20 years, Allison and her husband Craig have transformed Almar into a standout Design Build firm, while also co-hosting the "Married With A Business" podcast.
Allison’s strength in leadership, communication, and systems development has fueled Almar’s growth and strengthened its culture and brand. She is passionate about helping small businesses scale and succeed.
Beyond Almar, Allison supports fellow entrepreneurs through speaking engagements across New England, mastermind groups, and leadership roles, including serving as Board Member and President of the South Shore Women’s Business Network. She is especially committed to empowering women-owned businesses and fostering meaningful connections in the business community.
Amar Building + Remodeling Co. Inc.
Owner/CEO
Allison Guido is the CEO and Owner of Almar Building and Remodeling, a leading residential remodeling firm in the Boston Metro Area. She stepped into the family business in 2002, becoming the third generation to lead the company. Over the past 20 years, Allison and her husband Craig have transformed Almar into a standout Design Build firm, while also co-hosting the "Married With A Business" podcast.
Allison’s strength in leadership, communication, and systems development has fueled Almar’s growth and strengthened its culture and brand. She is passionate about helping small businesses scale and succeed.
Beyond Almar, Allison supports fellow entrepreneurs through speaking engagements across New England, mastermind groups, and leadership roles, including serving as Board Member and President of the South Shore Women’s Business Network. She is especially committed to empowering women-owned businesses and fostering meaningful connections in the business community.
Jill Helwig
Brand New U
Founder & Head Coach
Jill is gifted author, inspirational speaker and vision-driven coach who possesses the unique ability to identify and cultivate the talents of others. Whether it is a group of 3 or 3,000, Jill’s workshops will position you and your organization for greater success by helping you operate from your strengths. Jill’s engaging yet highly focused, no nonsense approach inspires audiences with results-oriented and practical tools they can immediately put into action.
Jill draws from over 20 years of corporate, non-profit and community experience including three years with then $12 billion company, MCI and fourteen years with Ziglar, Inc, where Zig Ziglar fondly referred to her as “The Bear Hunter” for her prowess at producing multi-millions in revenue. Often exceeding quotas by more than 300%, Jill’s proven track record of success and achievement is surpassed only by her exceptional ability to translate those key principles. Her warm heart and unique ability to communicate and touch each person individually, right where you are today, will leave you believing you can BE more, DO more and EARN more.
Brand New U
Founder & Head Coach
Jill is gifted author, inspirational speaker and vision-driven coach who possesses the unique ability to identify and cultivate the talents of others. Whether it is a group of 3 or 3,000, Jill’s workshops will position you and your organization for greater success by helping you operate from your strengths. Jill’s engaging yet highly focused, no nonsense approach inspires audiences with results-oriented and practical tools they can immediately put into action.
Jill draws from over 20 years of corporate, non-profit and community experience including three years with then $12 billion company, MCI and fourteen years with Ziglar, Inc, where Zig Ziglar fondly referred to her as “The Bear Hunter” for her prowess at producing multi-millions in revenue. Often exceeding quotas by more than 300%, Jill’s proven track record of success and achievement is surpassed only by her exceptional ability to translate those key principles. Her warm heart and unique ability to communicate and touch each person individually, right where you are today, will leave you believing you can BE more, DO more and EARN more.
Anna Hunter
Anna Hunter Coaching
Owner
Dr. Anna Hunter is a speaker, consultant, and author passionate about helping contractors and remodelers navigate change and optimize business processes with confidence. Motivated by the change process, she equips contractors and remodelers with practical, people-first strategies to overcome resistance, streamline operations, and navigate transitions like process improvements and technology adoption. With a background in construction and counseling, Anna makes change feel less overwhelming and more like an opportunity for growth. She holds a Doctorate in Organizational Development & Transformational Leadership, is a certified Change Management Specialist, and authored Adapt to Adopt: A Human Approach to Software Implementation.
Anna Hunter Coaching
Owner
Dr. Anna Hunter is a speaker, consultant, and author passionate about helping contractors and remodelers navigate change and optimize business processes with confidence. Motivated by the change process, she equips contractors and remodelers with practical, people-first strategies to overcome resistance, streamline operations, and navigate transitions like process improvements and technology adoption. With a background in construction and counseling, Anna makes change feel less overwhelming and more like an opportunity for growth. She holds a Doctorate in Organizational Development & Transformational Leadership, is a certified Change Management Specialist, and authored Adapt to Adopt: A Human Approach to Software Implementation.
Bree Jones
Parity
Founder
Bree Jones (she/her) is the founder of Parity, an equitable development company based in West Baltimore. Parity sparks upfront demand for affordable homeownership opportunities in neighborhoods experiencing hyper-vacancy by creating pathways for existing residents, families, friends, and other social collectives to purchase formerly abandoned homes alongside each other, block by block, as a means of community-building and wealth building. Her work is grounded in the principle of Development Without Displacement: she believes we can revitalize historically redlined neighborhoods while ensuring that long-time residents can actively participate in and benefit from reinvestment efforts. Her accomplishments have been highlighted by publications such as the Washington Post, Baltimore Sun, Afro Tech, Fast Company, and the Brookings Institute, and she also delivered a TED talk showcasing her insights and ideas. Prior to launching Parity, she enjoyed a successful career in finance, alternative investments, and venture capital.
Parity
Founder
Bree Jones (she/her) is the founder of Parity, an equitable development company based in West Baltimore. Parity sparks upfront demand for affordable homeownership opportunities in neighborhoods experiencing hyper-vacancy by creating pathways for existing residents, families, friends, and other social collectives to purchase formerly abandoned homes alongside each other, block by block, as a means of community-building and wealth building. Her work is grounded in the principle of Development Without Displacement: she believes we can revitalize historically redlined neighborhoods while ensuring that long-time residents can actively participate in and benefit from reinvestment efforts. Her accomplishments have been highlighted by publications such as the Washington Post, Baltimore Sun, Afro Tech, Fast Company, and the Brookings Institute, and she also delivered a TED talk showcasing her insights and ideas. Prior to launching Parity, she enjoyed a successful career in finance, alternative investments, and venture capital.
Margie Lavender
Kligerman Architecture & Design
Partner
Margie Lavender is an architect and partner at Kligerman Architecture & Design, known for distinctive residential design rooted in history, yet modern in its taut detailing, glass expanses, and sculptural form. A reinterpretation of tradition in harmony with local vernaculars is a key identity of KA&D’s work, resulting in homes as unique as the clients who inspire them. From her office in midtown Manhattan overlooking the Empire State Building, Margie brings an expert eye for detail to complex projects in NYC and throughout the United States, with a deep appreciation for craft in architecture, and its interplay with nature and light. Margie is also a passionate gardener and has channeled this into co-founding the Hastings Pollinator Pathway, a volunteer organization focused on gardening for biodiversity. Margie serves on the Hastings-on-Hudson Conservation Committee, The University of Texas at Austin Architecture School Advisory Council, and The Cultural Landscape Foundation Stewardship Committee.
Kligerman Architecture & Design
Partner
Margie Lavender is an architect and partner at Kligerman Architecture & Design, known for distinctive residential design rooted in history, yet modern in its taut detailing, glass expanses, and sculptural form. A reinterpretation of tradition in harmony with local vernaculars is a key identity of KA&D’s work, resulting in homes as unique as the clients who inspire them. From her office in midtown Manhattan overlooking the Empire State Building, Margie brings an expert eye for detail to complex projects in NYC and throughout the United States, with a deep appreciation for craft in architecture, and its interplay with nature and light. Margie is also a passionate gardener and has channeled this into co-founding the Hastings Pollinator Pathway, a volunteer organization focused on gardening for biodiversity. Margie serves on the Hastings-on-Hudson Conservation Committee, The University of Texas at Austin Architecture School Advisory Council, and The Cultural Landscape Foundation Stewardship Committee.
Leslie Nicholson
Quartersawn Design Build
Owner/Director of Finance
Leslie Nicholson, the co-founder and Director of Finance at Quartersawn Design Build, brings over two decades of leadership to the design-build industry, helping shape the systems, culture, and homeowner journey that defines the firms' boutique approach to remodeling. She believes that great remodeling isn't just about beautiful finishes - it's about building relationships, honoring stores, and creating homes that feel deeply personal.
Quartersawn Design Build
Owner/Director of Finance
Leslie Nicholson, the co-founder and Director of Finance at Quartersawn Design Build, brings over two decades of leadership to the design-build industry, helping shape the systems, culture, and homeowner journey that defines the firms' boutique approach to remodeling. She believes that great remodeling isn't just about beautiful finishes - it's about building relationships, honoring stores, and creating homes that feel deeply personal.
Laura Paul
lowernine.org
Executive Director
Natural disasters—hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, wildfire, and earthquakes—cause billions of dollars in property loss and require extensive rebuilding efforts that take years, even decades. Allyssa Taylor and Laura Paul know that world intimately from their work in Lahaina Town on Maui and in New Orleans' Ninth Ward, respectively, and bring their stories of recovery and resiliency—from both the built world and the families affected in those areas—to both inspire and enlighten us about the realities of disaster and personal recovery.
lowernine.org
Executive Director
Natural disasters—hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, wildfire, and earthquakes—cause billions of dollars in property loss and require extensive rebuilding efforts that take years, even decades. Allyssa Taylor and Laura Paul know that world intimately from their work in Lahaina Town on Maui and in New Orleans' Ninth Ward, respectively, and bring their stories of recovery and resiliency—from both the built world and the families affected in those areas—to both inspire and enlighten us about the realities of disaster and personal recovery.
Mary Peters
Sasquatch Contracting
CEO
In 2016, single mom Mary founded Sasquatch Contracting [@sasquatchcontracting] with a mission to offer what many homeowners seek but rarely find—an honest, ethical, and reliable contractor. The name “Sasquatch” reflects the rarity of those qualities in the industry. As one of the few female leaders in construction, Mary brings a unique, integrity-driven approach centered on clear communication, ethical practices, and community partnerships.
She works closely with local subcontractors and suppliers, believing in strengthening both her projects and the community. From busy families to retirees, Mary understands the varying needs of homeowners and strives to make every renovation experience seamless and stress-free.
In 2024, she launched Yeti Services [@yetiservices], a monthly home maintenance membership, and also owns Treasure Valley Floor Coverings and Designs [@treasure_valley_designs], offering beautiful, budget-conscious flooring and cabinetry solutions. Mary has built the kind of company she would trust with her own home—one that empowers clients through every stage of their home journey.
Sasquatch Contracting
CEO
In 2016, single mom Mary founded Sasquatch Contracting [@sasquatchcontracting] with a mission to offer what many homeowners seek but rarely find—an honest, ethical, and reliable contractor. The name “Sasquatch” reflects the rarity of those qualities in the industry. As one of the few female leaders in construction, Mary brings a unique, integrity-driven approach centered on clear communication, ethical practices, and community partnerships.
She works closely with local subcontractors and suppliers, believing in strengthening both her projects and the community. From busy families to retirees, Mary understands the varying needs of homeowners and strives to make every renovation experience seamless and stress-free.
In 2024, she launched Yeti Services [@yetiservices], a monthly home maintenance membership, and also owns Treasure Valley Floor Coverings and Designs [@treasure_valley_designs], offering beautiful, budget-conscious flooring and cabinetry solutions. Mary has built the kind of company she would trust with her own home—one that empowers clients through every stage of their home journey.
Katy Reynolds
Shibusa Systems
Co-Founder & CEO
Katy is an entrepreneur whose focus is to provide comprehensive resource-efficient solutions to build resilient communities. Through her vision and leadership, she founded Shibusa Systems to optimize the way high-performance homes are designed and built – more economically, more sustainably, and faster. Katy has over 35 years of executive experience in investment banking, corporate strategy, and operational management. Currently, Katy serves on the Advisory Board to the Political Economy department at the University of California, Berkeley, where she received her B.A. in Political Economy. She is also a member of Chief, the largest network of C-Suite women leaders across industries and around the world.
Shibusa Systems
Co-Founder & CEO
Katy is an entrepreneur whose focus is to provide comprehensive resource-efficient solutions to build resilient communities. Through her vision and leadership, she founded Shibusa Systems to optimize the way high-performance homes are designed and built – more economically, more sustainably, and faster. Katy has over 35 years of executive experience in investment banking, corporate strategy, and operational management. Currently, Katy serves on the Advisory Board to the Political Economy department at the University of California, Berkeley, where she received her B.A. in Political Economy. She is also a member of Chief, the largest network of C-Suite women leaders across industries and around the world.
Ashley Sheaffer
KBF Design Gallery
Principal
Ashley Sheaffer is co-owner of KBF Design Gallery, a second-generation design-build firm she runs with her brother, Adam. Together, they’re on a mission to transform the traditionally fragmented remodeling industry into a streamlined, tech-driven experience. With deep roots in construction and design, Ashley is fiercely focused on integrating systems and AI-powered solutions that close the gap between jobsite execution and back-end operations—elevating quality, speed, and client confidence.
Far from status quo, Ashley sees technology not as a threat to craftsmanship, but as the key to empowering teams in the field and solving the persistent communication and coordination breakdowns that plague most projects. Under her leadership, KBF is redefining what a construction company can be: modern, transparent, and relentlessly customer-centric. As a speaker and advocate for women in construction, Ashley champions innovation, mentorship, and the power of forward-thinking leadership in reshaping the future of the trades.
KBF Design Gallery
Principal
Ashley Sheaffer is co-owner of KBF Design Gallery, a second-generation design-build firm she runs with her brother, Adam. Together, they’re on a mission to transform the traditionally fragmented remodeling industry into a streamlined, tech-driven experience. With deep roots in construction and design, Ashley is fiercely focused on integrating systems and AI-powered solutions that close the gap between jobsite execution and back-end operations—elevating quality, speed, and client confidence.
Far from status quo, Ashley sees technology not as a threat to craftsmanship, but as the key to empowering teams in the field and solving the persistent communication and coordination breakdowns that plague most projects. Under her leadership, KBF is redefining what a construction company can be: modern, transparent, and relentlessly customer-centric. As a speaker and advocate for women in construction, Ashley champions innovation, mentorship, and the power of forward-thinking leadership in reshaping the future of the trades.
Teri Slavik-Tsuyuki
tst ink, LLC
Founder
Teri’s expertise is at the intersection of marketing and community development. She works with developers to create and activate community vision and design strategies. She brings a sociologist’s perspective to who will live there, and how they want to live, and has brought to life some of the most valuable and recognized brands and communities. Teri spearheaded the America at Home Study, exploring changes in consumer behavior, with lasting impacts on home and community design. The study inspired the design and construction of two concept homes both awarded the Gold Nugget Grand Award (2021 and 2025). She also co-chairs the Global Wellness Institute’s Wellness Communities & Real Estate Initiative and is active on ULI’s Residential Neighborhood Development Council. Her work has been featured in Fast Company, USA Today, Washington Post, Forbes, CNN Business, Fox Business and many industry publications. She’s written 30+ feature articles and is a frequent speaker at national real estate and design events.
tst ink, LLC
Founder
Teri’s expertise is at the intersection of marketing and community development. She works with developers to create and activate community vision and design strategies. She brings a sociologist’s perspective to who will live there, and how they want to live, and has brought to life some of the most valuable and recognized brands and communities. Teri spearheaded the America at Home Study, exploring changes in consumer behavior, with lasting impacts on home and community design. The study inspired the design and construction of two concept homes both awarded the Gold Nugget Grand Award (2021 and 2025). She also co-chairs the Global Wellness Institute’s Wellness Communities & Real Estate Initiative and is active on ULI’s Residential Neighborhood Development Council. Her work has been featured in Fast Company, USA Today, Washington Post, Forbes, CNN Business, Fox Business and many industry publications. She’s written 30+ feature articles and is a frequent speaker at national real estate and design events.
Gillian Sowray
Fordje
CEO/Co-Founder
Gillian Sowray is the CEO and co-founder of Fordje, an AI platform that delivers up-to-date city code data to accelerate construction. With 16 years of product leadership across climate tech, SaaS, and startups, she focuses on untangling regulatory complexity so teams can build faster and smarter. Gillian holds dual master’s degrees in Business and Public Policy from Carnegie Mellon University, and has spoken at NAHB’s International Builders’ Show, SXSW, and SF Climate Week. She lives in Portland, Ore., where she also makes wine and performs Shakespeare.
Fordje
CEO/Co-Founder
Gillian Sowray is the CEO and co-founder of Fordje, an AI platform that delivers up-to-date city code data to accelerate construction. With 16 years of product leadership across climate tech, SaaS, and startups, she focuses on untangling regulatory complexity so teams can build faster and smarter. Gillian holds dual master’s degrees in Business and Public Policy from Carnegie Mellon University, and has spoken at NAHB’s International Builders’ Show, SXSW, and SF Climate Week. She lives in Portland, Ore., where she also makes wine and performs Shakespeare.
Allysa Taylor
Liv-Connected
Director of Operations
Natural disasters—hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, wildfire, and earthquakes—cause billions of dollars in property loss and require extensive rebuilding efforts that take years, even decades. Allyssa Taylor and Laura Paul know that world intimately from their work in Lahaina Town on Maui and in New Orleans' Ninth Ward, respectively, and bring their stories of recovery and resiliency—from both the built world and the families affected in those areas—to both inspire and enlighten us about the realities of disaster and personal recovery.
Liv-Connected
Director of Operations
Natural disasters—hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, wildfire, and earthquakes—cause billions of dollars in property loss and require extensive rebuilding efforts that take years, even decades. Allyssa Taylor and Laura Paul know that world intimately from their work in Lahaina Town on Maui and in New Orleans' Ninth Ward, respectively, and bring their stories of recovery and resiliency—from both the built world and the families affected in those areas—to both inspire and enlighten us about the realities of disaster and personal recovery.
Alyssa Titus
Schell Brothers
Director of Marketing
As the Director of Marketing for Schell Brothers for the past eight years, Alyssa Titus has had the incredible opportunity to help launch and promote every Schell community across all divisions. It’s a role she’s passionate about, sharing Schell’s Mission of Happiness with future and current homeowners every day. She has proudly called Delaware home for more than 25 years. She, her husband, and their three daughters love soaking up everything the First State offers—exploring charming small towns, hitting the scenic trails, or spending a day at the beach.
Schell Brothers
Director of Marketing
As the Director of Marketing for Schell Brothers for the past eight years, Alyssa Titus has had the incredible opportunity to help launch and promote every Schell community across all divisions. It’s a role she’s passionate about, sharing Schell’s Mission of Happiness with future and current homeowners every day. She has proudly called Delaware home for more than 25 years. She, her husband, and their three daughters love soaking up everything the First State offers—exploring charming small towns, hitting the scenic trails, or spending a day at the beach.
Amanda Venditti
Premier Home Pros
VP of Communications
Amanda Venditti is the VP of Communications at Premier Home Pros, the nation’s fastest-growing bathroom remodeling company. With a sharp focus on digital innovation, Amanda leads the company’s marketing communications, branding, reputation management, PR, creative direction, and social media. Amanda’s passion for emerging technologies—especially SEO and AI—have helped scale Premier’s brand visibility while driving trust and five-star customer experience across diverse markets.
Premier Home Pros
VP of Communications
Amanda Venditti is the VP of Communications at Premier Home Pros, the nation’s fastest-growing bathroom remodeling company. With a sharp focus on digital innovation, Amanda leads the company’s marketing communications, branding, reputation management, PR, creative direction, and social media. Amanda’s passion for emerging technologies—especially SEO and AI—have helped scale Premier’s brand visibility while driving trust and five-star customer experience across diverse markets.
Marie Watkins
Manuel Builders
Division President-Texas
Marie Watkins is the division president for Manuel Builders, where she leads with purpose, passion, and a deep belief in the power of home. Her journey with the company began as a customer; after building her first home with Manuel Builders, her connection to the mission was undeniable. What began as a selections meeting soon turned into an interview with founder Greg Manuel, soon after which she joined the team. She has since risen through the ranks, driven by a personal understanding that every home is different and every family is unique and that it is vital for both people and processes work systematically to honor individual needs. Leading the company's expansion into Texas, she is proud to be part of a company that has grown from building fewer than 40 homes a year to over 400 without losing sight of what matters most: the people they serve. For Marie, building homes isn’t just a job, it’s a calling.
Manuel Builders
Division President-Texas
Marie Watkins is the division president for Manuel Builders, where she leads with purpose, passion, and a deep belief in the power of home. Her journey with the company began as a customer; after building her first home with Manuel Builders, her connection to the mission was undeniable. What began as a selections meeting soon turned into an interview with founder Greg Manuel, soon after which she joined the team. She has since risen through the ranks, driven by a personal understanding that every home is different and every family is unique and that it is vital for both people and processes work systematically to honor individual needs. Leading the company's expansion into Texas, she is proud to be part of a company that has grown from building fewer than 40 homes a year to over 400 without losing sight of what matters most: the people they serve. For Marie, building homes isn’t just a job, it’s a calling.
