In an industry facing constant disruption—from AI to economic uncertainty to generational shifts—authentic leadership isn't just nice-to-have, it's a competitive advantage. Research shows teams with psychological safety see 76% higher engagement, 47% higher performance, and 27% lower turnover. For AEC firms competing for top talent and high-stakes projects, these metrics translate directly to bottom-line impact. This session provides immediately actionable frameworks for building trust, navigating difficult conversations, and creating teams that consistently deliver monumental outcomes. Attendees will leave with proven strategies that transform team dynamics, improve client relationships, and drive measurable business results—making authenticity a strategic business tool rather than personal development concept. Learning Objectives Master the A.U.T.H.E.N.T.I.C. framework for conducting difficult conversations with empathy and effectiveness, reducing team conflict and improving performance outcomes in high-pressure AEC environments Implement joy-based leadership strategies that create psychological safety and team resilience, leading to measurably higher engagement, retention, and project success rates Transform imposter syndrome into leadership strength by developing authentic leadership practices that build trust and collaboration, moving away from performative styles that create distance between leaders and teams Identify key opportunities and next steps for implementing authentic leadership practices within existing team structures, with frameworks that attendees can adapt to their specific organizational contexts About the Speakers:

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JJ Nelson, Director of Brand Communications | Bergmeyer JJ is Director of Brand Communications at Bergmeyer, where they lead strategic communications, branding, and PR for the multidisciplinary AEC design collaborative. With 15+ years elevating brands through authentic storytelling, JJ has guided teams through major organizational transitions, building high-performing cultures where innovation thrives. Known for leading with joy and human-centric authenticity, JJ's approach to team leadership challenges traditional AEC management styles. Their philosophy that genuine connection drives better results has been proven through successful internal culture transformations, client relationship building, and team retention during periods of significant change. As an LGBTQ+ leader in the traditionally conservative AEC industry, JJ brings unique insights into creating inclusive environments where diverse perspectives fuel competitive advantage. They serve on the Board of Directors for SpeakOUT Boston, the oldest LGBTQ+ speakers bureau in the country - combining their own corporate leadership experience with community advocacy to understand how authentic storytelling transforms organizational cultures.

Learn and Earn CEU
This event is approved for (1) Continuing Education Units.

Content covers the following Domain(s) of Practice: 

1 – Marketing Research
2 – Marketing Planning
3 – Client and Business Development
6 – Management

For more information about becoming a Certified Professional Services Marketer (CPSM), contact Jeremy Richard, CPSM or contact SMPS Headquarters.

Content Relevance
This event is relevant for the following career levels:

Junior Marketer - supports marketing activities
Mid-Level Marketer - leads marketing activities
Senior Marketer - oversees firm’s marketing program and performance
BD Professional - develops specified volume of business
Technical Staff - fulfills technical role, i.e. billable.

Registration Questions?

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This event will be recorded.  Video and audio recording will occur at this SMPS Seattle event, and a link shared with all paid registrants within 48 hours. The comments in the chat will not be saved or recorded. SMPS Seattle may retain the content of any questions submitted to answer at a later time. By submitting a question, you authorize SMPS Seattle, its affiliates, and representatives to use the language of the question (which will not be attributed to the speaker) without compensation, for any purpose related to SMPS Seattle’s activities and mission in perpetuity, and you release SMPS Seattle, its successors and assigns, from any and all liability related to such use.

For questions about this event or your registration, please contact [email protected]. 
NOTE: Cancellations must be made by sending an email to Katie Berry, CPSM at least 72 hours prior to an event for a refund. If no cancellation request is received prior to the event, payment is still due in full regardless of attendance. View our full terms and conditions here.