Meet the 2025/2026 SMPS Seattle Board of Directors

Congratulations to the SMPS Seattle 2025/2026 Board of Directors! This slate of officers was recently approved by members. Their term officially begins in September 2025 and concludes December 2026.

James Harmon, President

Senior Marketing Writer & Editor, HNTB

James Malloy Harmon, PhD, CPSM, enjoys helping people express themselves in the best way possible to make their ideas shine. As a Senior Marketing Writer and Editor at HNTB, James specializes in leading and facilitating workshops as well as developing impactful written communication. For James, marketing is more than a career, it has become a philosophy and approach — one that he attributes to helping him complete and defend a doctoral dissertation. “If only we were taught the soft skills of marketing, along with shop class and home economics back in high school, we might be just a little better off,” James wistfully laments late into the night. During a career of more than 20 years, James has served in a variety of communications-related capacities, including as an editor for a publishing company and professor of English at various community colleges and universities on the West Coast. Even off the clock, James enjoys writing, but if that becomes too taxing, nothing is quite as inspiring and stress-relieving as running along the beautiful Puget Sound, designing costumes for Comic-Con, or strolling the neighborhood with his cat Baldwin.

James centers his leadership philosophy on advocacy, inspired by the belief that “Other People” are a powerful source of motivation. He states, “Other People has been the motivation for some of my best decisions, including joining SMPS Seattle,” and he has chosen advocacy as the guiding theme for his presidency, including advocacy for our SMPS communities, advocacy for ourselves, and advocacy for our board. James is committed to fostering cross-chapter collaboration, supporting underrepresented firms, and enriching inclusive programs, noting, “Together, our board will help grow our SMPS communities, just as they have nurtured us.”

“I am thrilled to have the privilege of serving with the 2025 – 2026 board. I feel as though we’re about to embark on a great adventure, and I couldn’t hope for a better crew. Many of these are individuals who I have served with before, while some I will be collaborating with for the first time. I am energized by their enthusiasm, their fresh new ideas and their commitment to our chapter and the local A/E/C community.” – James Malloy Harmon, PhD, CPSM

Mia Alhambra, President-Elect

Senior Marketing Coordinator, MG2

Mia Alhambra is a Senior Marketing Coordinator at MG2 and primarily works with the firm’s Consumer Experiences team. Since joining SMPS Seattle in 2020, she has volunteered for the chapter’s marketing, membership, and DEI committees, and then served on the board as Director at Large: Marketing from 2023 to 2025. She was also recognized as SMPS Seattle’s Rising Star at the 2022 Reign Awards and is also a MULTIPLY mentor. Outside of work, you can find Mia coaching a boxing or barre class, or staying in with a good book (or audiobook)!

Mia reflects on her two years on the SMPS Seattle board as a time of growth and collaboration, bringing “a unique blend of enthusiasm, creativity, and organization” to her role. She notes that her work as Director at Large for Marketing has allowed her to “bring initiatives to life through our chapter's communications” and develop a deep appreciation for the community. As she steps into the President-Elect position, Mia is passionate about increasing diversity and accessibility within the chapter, stating, “I want to help bring more voices and perspectives into SMPS Seattle and ensure that everyone feels welcome, supported, and empowered to get involved.”

Bill Michie, Past President

Northwest Communications + Brand Leader, DPR Construction

As DPR Construction’s NW Communications + Brand leader, Bill helps position his firm to build great things from Seattle to Silicon Valley by sharing stories of DPR’s innovative team members and the structures they build. He unites marketing and communication strategy with construction operations knowledge to create award-winning strategic communication campaigns and project-winning proposals. He advocates for the use of strategic communications in A/E/C and believes they can help A/E/C marketers create more successful outcomes for their firms and reduce proposal workload, too!

Bill reflects on his term as SMPS Seattle President with gratitude and pride, sharing that he challenged members to “Thrive Through 2025” and is “delighted to see so many of you thriving.” Some major accomplishments include advancing the chapter’s Strategic Plan, launching new programs like Catalyst Conversations and the traveling happy hour, and expanding student outreach and scholarship opportunities. “Our chapter leveraged our fiscal strength to provide even more scholarships,” he notes, underscoring the board’s commitment to member support and growth during uncertain times. Bill looks forward to seeing the chapter continue to “thrive under this group of dynamic leaders and dedicated volunteers.”

Kayla Snider, Treasurer

Senior Proposal Strategist, FORMA Construction

Kayla Snider is a Senior Proposal Strategist at FORMA Construction, where she leads proposal efforts and marketing strategy. A member of SMPS since 2019, she currently serves as Treasurer for the Seattle Chapter and is also involved in the MULTIPLY program. Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Kayla moved to Seattle in 2021 and quickly found a professional home within SMPS. In her spare time she enjoys getting out in nature, reading, playing piano, and baking.

Kayla describes SMPS Seattle as a place where she immediately felt connected, sharing that she’s been “consistently inspired by the enduring warmth, humor, and drive of our membership.” Reflecting on her past year as Treasurer, she emphasizes the importance of financial stewardship, stating, “I believe our fiscal strategy is one of our most effective catalysts, a bedrock for member connection, creativity, and growth.” Looking ahead to a second term on the board, Kayla is committed to “developing transparent processes” and “empowering our Directors with budget knowledge and clarity” to help expand opportunities for all members.

Katie Berry, Secretary

Senior Marketing Specialist, HNTB

Katie is a Senior Marketing Specialist at HNTB, focused on winning some of the largest and most complex infrastructure projects across the Pacific Northwest. As an active member of SMPS since 2022, Katie values the strong sense of community within SMPS and enjoys building connections with fellow members. Outside of work and SMPS, Katie loves re-watching The Office, taking long walks with her Doberman named Phoenix, and spending time in the beautiful PNW outdoors.

Katie shares her enthusiasm for continuing her service on the SMPS Seattle Board, stating, “It has been an honor to serve as Secretary… and I am excited to be considered for a second term.” Since joining in 2022, she has contributed through both the marketing committee and the board, where she’s enjoyed supporting “the strategic efforts that keep our chapter one of the largest and most active in the country.” Looking ahead, Katie is especially excited about the upcoming Pacific Regional Conference in Seattle and is “eager to continue working together with the board to support our members and mission in the year ahead.”

Jon Davies, Senior Advisor

Director of Business Development and Vice President, BHC Consultants

As Director of Business Development and Vice President for BHC Consultants, I am responsible for building external relationships with decision makers in the markets we serve. I partner with our Project Managers and technical staff to develop pursuit and win strategies that lead to new client and project wins for the firm. I am often accompanied by our five-pound Yorkie named Harley when meeting clients and attending events. From May to October, you may find me out on Lake Sammamish water skiing in the early morning hours before work!

Jon expresses his enthusiasm for returning to the SMPS Seattle Board as Senior Advisor, noting, “I love being able to give back to this association!” and sharing a special connection with this year’s President, James Harmon, his former mentee in the Multiply Program. With extensive experience—including a past term as Chapter President and service in roles such as Director of Programs, Membership, Education, Sponsorship, and a previous stint as Senior Advisor—Jon brings valuable institutional knowledge to help the board “avoid making mistakes that were made in the past.” He is committed to being a supportive resource, stating he will serve as a “sounding board,” while also stepping in to “drive initiatives, brainstorm ideas, or just jump in and accomplish tasks” as needed.

Ashley Di Cristina, Director at Large: Professional Development

Marketing Strategist, UMC, Inc.

Ashley has been a member of the Seattle Chapter of SMPS since 2019, bringing over a decade of experience in the A/E/C industry. As the Marketing Strategist at UMC, Inc., she leads the charge of proposals and marketing research while championing other strategic initiatives. Ashley’s career has taken her across the country, allowing her to contribute to and grow with SMPS Chapters in Denver and Wisconsin before finding her home in Seattle.

Ashley emphasizes that “connecting people with resources for personal growth, networking, and career advancement remains at the heart of SMPS,” and reflects proudly on recent accomplishments like the Catalyst Conversation series and expanded scholarship offerings. These initiatives, she notes, “exemplify our commitment to empowering members at every stage of their career journey.” Looking ahead, Ashley is excited to continue innovating through programs like CPSM, Roundtable, and Multiply Mentorship, stating that the Professional Development Committee is focused on helping members “find the resources, connections, and opportunities [they] need to thrive.”

Jimmie Collins, CPSM, Director at Large: Membership

Proposal and Marketing Manager, Manson Construction, Co.

Jimmie is the Proposal & Marketing Manager at Manson Construction Co. where she leads Marketing, Sales, and Communications efforts nationwide. Since joining SMPS Seattle in 2022, she has served as Scholarships Co-Chair, volunteered on the Nominations and Elections Committee, participated as a mentor and mentee in the MULTIPLY program and volunteered on the Programs Committee for the Pacific Regional Conference. With the support of the PRC CPSM Study Group, Jimmie became a Certified Professional Services Marketer (CPSM) in 2024.

Jimmie brings a unique and global perspective to her role, sharing that her path to the A/E/C industry began after journalism school and included “galivanting across two continents as an English as a foreign language teacher,” followed by small business ownership and a move to Seattle just before the COVID-19 lockdown. Since joining SMPS in 2022, she has actively engaged with the Seattle Chapter and Pacific Regional Conference, noting that these experiences have “made me a better marketer and a better leader.” As Director of the Membership Committee, Jimmie is committed to fostering an inclusive community and connecting members “with each other and with the resources we offer” to help them grow and succeed.

Andrea Rocha, Director at Large: Education

Senior Marketing & Business Development Specialist, GeoEngineers

Andrea is the Marketing & Business Development Manager at GeoEngineers focused on championing targeted business development initiatives in partnership with technical staff to secure project opportunities and increase company growth. Andrea has been an active member of SMPS Seattle since 2019 and has worked in the AEC industry for nearly eight years. She is passionate about fostering collaboration and developing tactical, strategic plans to meet goals. Outside of work, Andrea teaches yoga, loves to walk and hike, and often attends concerts and live music events.

Andrea is excited to return to the SMPS Seattle Board as Director at Large: Education, where she combines her passion for learning and building “authentic, meaningful connections.” Since joining SMPS in 2019, she has contributed to various committees including Education, DEI, and Scholarship Voting, gaining “an integral understanding of SMPS culture, mission, and values.” Reflecting on her past year in this role, Andrea aims to “continue to streamline our processes, identify speakers with messages that are meaningful and outside the box, and develop programs that are impactful to our professional growth.”

Leah Curulla, Director at Large: Special Events

Marketing and Pursuit Manager, UMC, Inc.

Raised in the PNW, Leah “fell” into AEC marketing during the dot-com crash. As Marketing and Pursuit Manager at UMC, she leads proposals, supports business development strategies, and helps create memorable events. With 24 years of AEC experience, she has a passion for storytelling, collaboration, and thoughtful planning. An SMPS member since 2001, Leah has served on the Seattle Chapter’s Special Events Committee since 2019 and co-chaired the Reign Awards for two years. Outside of work, she volunteers on her daughter’s high school wrestling booster board and entertains channeling her inner Martha Stewart—her friends even call her “Martha.”

Leah highlights that SMPS has been “a constant throughout my career,” providing professional development, leadership, and community support. As Director at Large for Special Events, she is passionate about “creating meaningful experiences that reflect the personality and professionalism of our chapter,” bringing creativity and attention to detail to event planning and volunteer coordination. Leah is committed to helping “grow the impact of our events and elevate the volunteer experience” while being ready “to listen, lead, and support our incredible community as we continue to evolve, connect, and thrive—together.”

Sam Ferris, Director at Large: Marketing

Marketing Specialist III, HNTB

Sam is a recent Texas transplant who regrets not moving to the Pacific Northwest sooner and a Marketing Specialist III at HNTB, where he helps pursuit teams win some of the region’s most transformational infrastructure projects. He has spent the past six years of his 12-year marketing career in the A/E/C industry and joined the SMPS Seattle Chapter in 2023. He brings experience as the Communications Director for SMPS San Antonio and a member-first philosophy to all SMPS marketing activities.

Sam describes SMPS as “a game-changer” since starting as a marketer in 2019, praising its educational programs, community, and volunteer opportunities as foundational to his professional growth over six years. He expresses excitement about joining the 2025-2026 Board as Marketing Director for the largest SMPS chapter, aiming to “provide my committee with the same professional growth opportunities that other directors have provided me.” Sam also plans to “find creative ways to help our communications highlight our chapter’s exceptional people and projects.”

Cindy Devine, Director at Large: DEI

Marketing Specialist, Absher Construction, Co.

Cindy Devine is a Marketing Specialist with Absher Construction Co. She joined SMPS Seattle in 2022 at the beginning of her AEC career, and most recently served on the chapter’s DEI Committee. At Absher, Cindy leads federal procurement pursuits, coordinates their monthly newsletter, and serves on the Culture of Care and LGBTQIA+ Committees. She is thrilled to utilize her skills in marketing and communications to connect with and learn from the A/E/C community. In her free time, Cindy likes to read, craft, pet her cats, and play video games with her fiancé.

Cindy is “overjoyed to be nominated as the SMPS Seattle Director at Large: DEI,” highlighting how SMPS has supported her professional growth and passion for social justice. She brings experience from her work on the Culture of Care and LGBTQIA+ Committees at Absher and joined the SMPS DEI Committee to deepen her commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. As Director, Cindy aims to “lead small groups centered around understanding the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion,” empower members’ voices, and help SMPS Seattle “continue to lead as a large, active chapter” that sets the example for others.

We’re excited to welcome this dynamic slate of leaders to the SMPS Seattle Board of Directors and look forward to the energy and vision they’ll bring. Their collective leadership and dedication will position us for continued growth and success in the year ahead!

Special thanks to this year's Nominations and Elections Committee volunteers:

• Ranjana Sterling (NEC Chair, Immediate Past President SMPS Seattle), EIP

• Karin Grinzel, CPSM, Assoc. DBIA, Baley Construction

• Madison Pearson, Osborn Consulting, Inc.

• Megan Bergstrom, CPSM, PCS Structural

• Bree Carey, CPSM, Baylis Architects

• Amanda Tallman, LEED AP, CSM, JPC Architects

Congratulations to our incoming 2025/2026 SMPS Seattle board members!