Allison is a Restoration Consultant focused on historic preservation with 10 years of experience serving architecture and engineering firms in Chicago and the greater Boston area. She specializes in investigative procedures, water testing, historical research, plan reviews, technical specifications, condition assessments, and construction administration for a range of buildings, including historic landmarks, residential, commercial, and municipal projects across the Midwest and East Coast. Allison serves on the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors for Landmarks Illinois, chairs its Resource Development Committee, and is on the Board of Directors for the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) Alumni Association. She holds a Bachelor of Architecture and a Master of Structural Engineering from IIT. Her accolades include the 2020 American Aspire Award from the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the 2021 Landmarks Illinois 50Forward Influencers, the 2022 Chicago Landmark Award for Preservation Excellence, and the 2023 Outstanding Young Alumnus Award from IIT.

For the past ten years Basim Shamsuddin has practiced architecture in Chicago having previously worked the UK and UAE. He is deeply interested in the intersection between conceptual and narrative-driven design. Using atypical materials, he unlocks new design possibilities resulting in memorable experiences and authentic buildings.

Understanding how spaces shape the user experience, he is passionate about creating remarkable spaces.

Basim has worked across typologies including healthcare, hospitality, arts and cultural, commercial, venues, and multi-family housing. As a senior designer he is primarily focused on high-performance enclosures, computational tools, and the seamless integration of systems.

Bradley Young is a Senior Associate Principal at SOM, working under the direction of the structural engineering partner and responsible for the design and documentation of structural engineering projects. He collaborates with the architectural design team to incorporate a structural engineering system which is compatible with the project's planning, architecture and other required systems.

Casey Pritchard is a Sales Manager at Boston Valley Terra Cotta, where she plays a key role in bringing visionary architectural designs to life through the beauty and versatility of terra cotta. With a deep understanding of facade materials and a passion for craftsmanship, she works closely with architects, designers, and developers to create high-performance building envelopes that balance aesthetics, sustainability, and durability.

Colleen Stuber-Zukanovic, AIA, LEED AP, BECxP is a licensed Architect and Project Director at Simpson, Gumpertz & Heger (SGH) with fifteen years of experience in the design and construction industry. She started her career in new construction design of hotels, offices, healthcare, and mixed-use buildings at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM). Colleen has also worked on the owner's side as a project manager at CBRE in office construction fit-out projects in Chicago. She then transitioned her career into building envelope consulting, where she has been focused for the last 10 years. Her experience includes existing building envelope renovations, repair design, and forensic investigations. She uses her experience working on the architect’s side, the owner's side, and on existing buildings to bolster a specialization in new construction consulting and building envelope commissioning (BECx). Colleen acts as an extra set of expert eyes and ears reviewing the building enclosure of new construction projects from early design through post-occupancy.

Dave Murray has dedicated over 20 years of committed service to Local 63, advancing the interests and well-being of the membership. For the past 15 years, he has proudly served as an officer, and for a decade, he contributed as an instructor, helping to train and mentor the next generation of tradespeople.

Since 2018, Dave has held the position of Business Agent, where he advocates daily on behalf of members. His responsibilities include securing job opportunities, protecting collective bargaining rights, managing fringe benefits, and negotiating fair and effective labor contracts with signatory contractors. His work is driven by a deep commitment to union values, member representation, and the continued strength and integrity of Local 63.

With over 10 years of professional experience, including 5 years of direct engagement with professionals in the AEC industry, Delayna brings a strong understanding of the collaborative aspects of the field. She joined Kuraray last year, where she has continued to expand her expertise on laminated glass interlayers. Delayna contributes to the company's growth by overseeing the Northwest and Midwest areas of the U.S., as well as parts of Canada. Additionally, Delayna is a member of the CSI Houston Chapter, where she stays current on the latest trends and innovations.

Elizabeth Blasius is an architectural historian, writer and critic, and cofounder of Preservation Futures, a Chicago-based firm exploring the future of historic preservation through research, action and design. Elizabeth’s writes a monthly column for Mas Context, a non-profit architecture and design platform.

Eneko Igartua is the Regional Façades Sales Manager at Cosentino, where he specializes in delivering high-performance architectural solutions using innovative materials. With a strong background in sustainable design and façade systems, he collaborates closely with designers, contractors, and manufacturers to implement advanced cladding technologies.

His international education and professional experience have given him a global perspective on design, innovation, and sustainability. Eneko has contributed to a wide range of commercial projects across Europe, Latin America, and the United States, and has worked with leading façade manufacturers on forward-thinking building envelope solutions.

He holds a Master’s degree in Strategic Design for Global Leadership from Parsons School of Design – The New School. This education has strengthened his view of design as a strategic tool—not only for visual impact but also for solving complex challenges and shaping systems, services, and organizations to be more effective and sustainable. Eneko actively participates in industry events and has led multiple masterclasses in both higher education and the private sector.

Eric Claeys holds a degree as Civil Engineer in Construction from KU Leuven, Belgium, a degree in Industrial Engineering in Public Works from KU Leuven, Belgium, and graduated with a Master in Business Administration from the Vlerick Business School, Belgium. Eric has 40 years of experience in façade technologies and consulting and was involved in hundreds of prestigious projects by the most famous architects in more than 30 countries worldwide. Since the very beginning, value engineering has been his driving force, along with the belief that “ It always seems impossible until it’s done”. Out-of-the-box thinking is not just in his DNA; it is his DNA.

Eric is the inventor of “hybrid” curtain wall systems, an innovative combination of stick and unitized CW systems. The technologies are covered by an extensive patent portfolio in more than 70 countries worldwide.

Innovating is critical, but it is not enough. The Fassada steel curtain wall technologies are carefully engineered to revolutionize the market, setting a new standard to eliminate problems and enable the impossible.

Eric is co-founder of Fassada Steel SA, which is a Switzerland-based joint venture between the Swiss Montanstahl AG and the Belgian Fassada Group, the parent company of Fassada Technologies.

Gary oversees all Design and Development for R2 as a licensed Architect and Builder, heading a team of Architects, Designers, Owner's Representatives, and Development & Construction Managers. His team executes all capital and cosmetic projects across R2's portfolio, while Gary personally manages all developments. His passion is creating modern dynamic space from complex historic structures.

Jamison Guest, AIA, joined Heintges in 2007. He leads the technical design and construction administration of complex enclosure consulting projects in North America, Asia, and the Middle East. In collaboration with renowned architecture firms worldwide, his project portfolio includes a wide range of building types and deep experience with enclosure systems for both new construction and re-clad applications.

Originally hailing from Southeast Michigan, Jamison is proud to be leading major enclosure consulting projects in the Detroit metropolitan region including the Detroit Hudson’s development and Ford Motor Company’s 2-million-square-foot new Campus Headquarters. He is also Principal-in-charge of multiple large-scale academic building enclosure projects active in the Northeast U.S.

He is a licensed architect in NY state, holds a master’s degree in Architecture from Columbia University, and has taught as a facade consultant studio critic at the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate level design program since 2016.

Jim Lamm is a seasoned architectural and building products professional with over 12 years of industry experience. For the past 7 years, he has served as the National Architectural Manager for the Upper Midwest at Vitro Architectural Glass, where he partners with architects and designers to deliver high-performance glass solutions. Prior to that, Jim spent over 5 years as a Business Development Manager at Reliable Louvers, a division of Ruskin, where he led product strategy and market development initiatives.

Lisa Rammig leads the teams in Eckersley O’Callaghan’s California offices. She has played a significant role in its expansion, establishing a West Coast presence, and leading many of the group’s most challenging projects, while she remains involved in academia and has built strong links between research and industry, helping maintain the practice’s position as leaders in the field. She remains part of the Facade Research Group at TU Delft where she pursued her doctorate research and is an elected member of the Special Advisory Council of the Facade Tectonics Institute at the University of Southern California. Her teaching experience includes engagements at MIT, TU Delft, TU Darmstadt and the California Academy of Arts. Publications include scientific papers, industry journals and contributions to technical books.

Luis Palacios is the AS+GG Design Director, focusing on sustainable design and sustainable communities, across multiple building typologies, he believes in a design approach that is derived from a process that emphasizes performative qualities specific to each project. His vision prioritizes the integration of technology and nature with value generation of each project, the community in which the project is located, and the built environment.

Luis’ design process promotes an organic approach to arrive at architecture that is conceived from unique sets of variables such as value, program, climate, and culture. His recent works include a large-scale High-Tech, Net-Zero Campus in the Middle East, a Luxury Residential Tower in the Middle East, a Luxury Eco-resort in the Caribbean with a Sustainable Affordable Housing Community, and The Al Wasl Plaza for the Dubai Expo 2020, among others.

Luis holds a Master of Architecture from the University of Illinois at Chicago.

After graduating from University of Cincinnati in 1997 with a BArch, Lynda worked at KPF London (ProvincieHuis) , DeStefano Partners (Division St Gateways | RiverEast Center | Citadel Center) and Studio Gang (Kam Liu Center | Lavezzorio Center |Aqua) before joining JAHN in 2011.  She is currently a Principal at JAHN working on 1000 S Michigan and various other high rise projects.  She has also been an Adjunct professor at IIT for second year studios and an External Monitor and Lecturer for the Diploma 2 Skyscraper Studio at the AHO in Oslo.  She has served on various crits, juries and panels for universities, the AIA, the CAC and competitions.  She is currently serving as a President of AIA Chicago. 

Mark Chiu leads Thornton Tomasetti’s Façade Engineering Practice in Chicago and has more than 16 years of experience in design of all types of exterior envelope systems, with a focus on sustainable design. He has in-depth knowledge and a specialization in building science, with certifications and credentials in the area of LEED design, NFRC simulations, and Building Enclosure Commissioning. His project work reflects this area of expertise as it involves attention to thermal analysis, high-performance and climate-specific design, and testing/analysis of the building envelope systems. He has collaborated on several notable national and international projects involving complex geometries, intricate detailing, challenging performance goals and material uses, as well as reuse of existing structures for re-clad/over-clad envelope design solutions.

Mark Nagis is a design Principal in SOM’s Chicago office. Nagis serves as team leader and oversees design strategy for commercial, hospitality, residential, and mixed-use projects varied in location, size, and complexity. His work elevates the intention of the client through a lens of collaboration, sustainability, and clarity that is consistent with SOM’s ethos. Through every project phase, Nagis works alongside clients and project stakeholders to communicate milestones and achieve project objectives.

Mark Schwamel, FAIA is Director and Office Leader for Ware Malcomb’s downtown Chicago Office. Mark is a planner and director with over 20+ years of experience driving clients and teams to discover optimal strategic solutions, cutting edge design and transformational experiences. Mark specializes in mixed-use, multifamily, and commercial projects by creating user-focused environments while delivering projects that raise his client’s profile and brand, unlocking their ultimate potential.

Mark was honored with AIA's highest award when he was elevated in 2022 to the AIA College of Fellows. Mark is requested time and again to lecture on architecture and serve on local and national design jury's, most recently serving as Chair on the National AIA Interior Design jury in 2025. Mark has been honored with the National AIA Young Architect award in 2014 and was selected to the 2013 class of ’40 under 40’ by Business Design and Construction (BD+C) Magazine.

Nathan studied art, architecture and business in Oregon, Copenhagen, and Rome. After graduating in 1996 from the University of Oregon, he worked for two years in Portland, Oregon before moving to New York City. Nathan joined Snøhetta in 2011. As Director, Nathan is leading the work for Ford Motor Company in Michigan which began with a Master Plan of which the first Design and Engineering building is currently under construction. Nathan has also managed several other projects such as the Far Rockaway Library in Queens and the Temple University Charles Library.

Paul B. Wende is the Business Manager Financial Secretary/Treasurer of Ironworkers Local Union #63 (Chicago). As the only Architectural & Ornamental Ironworkers Local in the Midwest, the union represents more than 1,500 workers who have constructed iconic Chicago structures including the St. Regis Chicago, Cloud Gate, and Maggie Daley Park. "We are the beauty mark of Chicago," says Wende.

Born in Chicago in 1968, Paul joined Local 63 in 1988 and became a Journeyman Finisher in 1992. Over his 33+ year career, he advanced from Foreman to serving as an Officer for over 20 years before his 2018 appointment as Business Manager. Paul successfully navigated Local 63 through the COVID-19 pandemic and helped establish the Lemont Union Wellness Center in 2021. In 2024, he opened Local 63's new "Glass House" training facility dedicated to curtainwall and window wall training.

Robert leads the North American activities for Jansen, a Swiss-based manufacturer of steel systems for facades & fenestration.  

Originally an Illinois native, he has over 20 years experience with international projects in both construction and architectural planning. He has a passion for innovative technology alongside an appreciation for traditional craftsmanship which perfectly combine for signature, unique architecture.

Robert is involved in Jansen’s efforts to deliver steel solutions that contribute to a building’s aesthetics, environmental performance and inhabitant well-being.

Sara is Associate Principal and Director of Technical Design at SCB. She works in partnership with firmwide technical leaders to promote high performance design and quality across all SCB projects. With over 20 years of experience, she specializes in complex project requirements on challenging and unique sites.

Scott Hurst is a Principal and Design Director in Gensler’s Chicago office, where he champions some of the firm’s most impactful projects. With recent work including the Ironworkers Union 63 Training Facility, Columbia College Chicago’s Student Center, and the new terminal at John Glenn Columbus International Airport, Scott’s designs reflect a deep commitment to the public realm. His work has appeared in GQ, Wired, and The Journal of Architectural Education, and in 2021, he received an honorary Doctorate of the Arts from Columbia College in recognition of his influence on the built environment.

Sean McGuire is an architect at Gensler's Chicago office, where he designs spaces that strengthen communities and address complex social challenges. With recent work including the Ironworkers Local 63 Training Facility, The Hub at Prairie Shores, OhioHealth Neuroscience Wellness, and the North Side Housing & Supportive Services, his outcome-driven approach reflects a deep commitment to user research and community engagement. Sean’s work has earned accolades including a Chicago Neighborhood Development Award, national and local AIA awards, and features in Architectural Record, Chicago Magazine, and the Chicago Tribune. Sean holds degrees from Tulane University and the Architectural Association in London.

Skyler Will is an Associate Technical Service and Development Scientist in Dow Consumer Solutions Building and Infrastructure. He provides technical support to the Northeast regions and contributes to the innovation and development of new products for the building and infrastructure market. Skyler got his start at Dow Corning working in Product Development with fluorosilicone elastomers. From there he transitioned to new roles in silicone architectural coatings, waterborne exterior coatings, hybrid and polyurethane roof coatings, adhesives and sealants. He has developed and commercialized products for both internal and external customers as well as leading small innovation teams resulting in small scale prototypes, technical reports and commercialized products utilizing his technical skills, subject matter expertise and customer facing experience.