Calling all young professionals! SMPS and ASCE invite young professionals* to this interactive workshop designed to demystify business development and make it feel more approachable, authentic, and achievable. This workshop will combine panel discussion, small group conversations, and hands-on networking exercises to help attendees better understand what business development really looks like in practice. The session will focus on real world experiences from our panelists, practical methods of approaching business development, and simple actions that can turn everyday interactions into meaningful professional relationships. 

The panel will feature experienced leaders from across the AEC industry, including Shane Phillips of Moffatt & Nichol, Kristy Alley of EBD Services, Brent Anderson of Hoffman, and Julie Martinez of Miller Hull. Drawing on decades of experience in consulting engineering, construction, and business development leadership, the panelists will share candid perspectives on what makes business development uncomfortable, what actually works, and how to develop genuine connections that can lead to valuable opportunities. The workshop will conclude with guided table discussions and speed networking, giving attendees a chance to immediately apply what they have learned and leave with concrete next steps. 

Food and drinks will be provided to enjoy as you network.

Agenda: 

The event will begin promptly at 4:15pm. Food and drinks will be provided to enjoy as you network.

4pm: Check In
4:15pm: Introduction to Business Development Presentation
4:45pm: Panel Discussion
5:40-6:30pm: Table Topics/Interactive Session/Networking

*Our definition of “Young Professional” goes beyond age. If you're growing in your career, building your network, and interested in business development, this event is for you.

About ASCE

The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Seattle Younger Member Forum (YMF) is a professional organization for civil engineers aged 35 and younger in the greater Seattle area. We are one of the most active civil engineering groups in the region. The Seattle Section serves of 2,500 members across King, Snohomish, Skagit, Island, Whatcom, San Juan, Kitsap, Clallam, and Jefferson Counties, Connecting with a broad network of civil engineering professionals and students.

About the Speakers

Shane Phillips, Vice President and Regional Operations Manager, Moffatt & Nichol

Shane Phillips is Vice President and Regional Operations Manager at Moffatt & Nichol, specializing in civil and coastal engineering for port and waterfront infrastructure. Over a 30 year career, he has guided planning, permitting, and design for projects across the Pacific Northwest and nationwide, with over 500 completed projects requiring a range of pursuit strategies.  Shane earned his BS in Civil Engineering from Washington State University and a Masters in Infrastructure Planning from the University of Washington.

Shane is known for building long term client and teaming partner relationships grounded in trust, clarity, and consistent delivery. His work spans feasibility studies, strategic planning, regulatory pathways, and complex multidisciplinary project execution—experiences that shape his approach to effective business development. He has led teams of architects, planners, scientists, and engineers to help clients articulate vision, align stakeholders, and position projects for funding and implementation. Shane is also committed to mentoring emerging professionals and helping them understand how communication, strategic preparation, collaboration, and relationship building contribute to career success.

Kristy Alley, Director of Business Development, EBD Services

As Director of Business Development at EBD Services, Kristy is uniquely positioned to understand what sets EBD apart and how to demonstrate the firm’s competitive edge. She focuses on cultivating long-term client partnerships through proactive stewardship, ensuring EBD’s engineering and PM solutions remain uncompromising on integrity and technical precision.

A recognized leader in the AEC community, Kristy’s influence extends well beyond her firm. She is a 13-time SMPS Marketing Communication Award winner, a testament to her expertise in elevating professional services through strategic storytelling. Kristy currently serves as Chair of the NAIOP Washington State Eastside Committee and has previously served two terms on the NAIOP Washington State Board of Directors, and one term at the national level. Her commitment to industry excellence is further reflected in her roles on the DBIA MarCom Committee and her involvement in the SMPS Seattle chapter, where she also served a term on the Board of Directors. Through these platforms, Kristy continues to drive innovation and excellence across the built environment.

Brent Anderson, Project Executive, Hoffman Construction

Brent Anderson is a Project Executive at Hoffman Construction, whose portfolio includes some of the Pacific Northwest's most demanding work: multiple facilities for Boeing, major infrastructure for King County, Capitol Campus building for State of Washington, and flagship retail stores for Apple. He has also delivered civic landmarks including the Seattle Central Library, MoPOP, and Olympia City Hall. Brent's approach to client relationships is straightforward: holistic thinking, bringing value and being trustworthy, a perspective that guides his approach to long-term business development success.

Julie Irvin Martinez, Principal, Marketing and Business Development, The Miller Hull Partnership

With decades of experience within the various facets of the AEC industry, Julie has strategically positioned architects, contractors, owner’s representatives, and engineers to win projects of consequence.  Currently, with over eight years as a leader within the architectural practice of The Miller Hull Partnership, Julie leads, directs, facilitates, and supports strategic business development and marketing efforts across all market sectors for the firm’s studios in Seattle and San Diego. As an Activator, Julie approaches development of these strategies through connecting people and projects, challenging assumptions, and aggregating market insights to ensure that pursuit teams are asking themselves the right questions and are working to win the projects they want in the way they want.  A 20+ year member of SMPS, Julie values the relationships, mentorship, and opportunities the organization fosters within the industry.

Intisar Ahmed, PE, P.Eng., M.ASCE, Project Geotechnical Engineer, GeoEngineers, Inc.

Intisar Ahmed, PE, P.Eng., M.ASCE is a Project Geotechnical Engineer with GeoEngineers, Inc. out of their Seattle, Washington office. He earned his BASc in Geological Engineering from the University of British Columbia and his MS in Civil & Environmental (GeoSystems) Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley. Intisar has more than seven years of experience as a geotechnical consultant in the private development, public works, dams/levees, and transportation markets. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in both the U.S. and Canada in the states of Washington and British Columbia, respectively. He is currently the Chair of the ASCE Geo-Institute’s National Younger Members Committee and is actively involved in the ASCE Seattle Section’s Geotechnical Group and the Younger Member’s Forum. Intisar is also actively engaged in the Geoprofessional Business Association.