Meeting/Event Information

1. The power of inquiry: How asking the right questions can fuel curiosity, disrupt norms, and propel growth in business and life.
2. Overcoming barriers: How to push past fear, self-doubt, and societal expectations to cultivate a mindset of courageous curiosity.

3. The Art of Beautiful Questions: A practical framework—"Why, What If, and How"—for transforming curiosity into action and driving innovation

Attendees will walk away inspired to ask better questions, challenge the ordinary, and take their lives from “Why?” to “Wow.” Whether you’re navigating career challenges, leading a team, or striving for personal growth, this session will ignite the courage to ask the questions that can change your future.

Damion Morris

Damion Morris is on a mission to expedite the evolution of marketing in the AEC industry. A dynamic speaker and marketing leader, Damion delivers high-energy presentations that equip marketers with implementable strategies for increasing their influence, impact, and career success. Damion’s down-to-earth humor invites audiences to laugh while they learn. As Marketing Manager for PCL Construction’s California Buildings District, he leads marketing strategy, activities, and initiatives for PCL’s largest and fastest-growing region at more than $1 billion in annual revenue. He is a Certified Professional Services Marketer (CPSM), a past president of SMPS Los Angeles, and a contributor to the Marketer. 

Dare to Matter

In a world becoming dominated by technology, it’s the people - who they are, what they know, what they do, and how they show up - that still matter most, especially as marketing and business development professionals.

But sometimes it’s not even enough to “just show up,” as basic an expectation that it is, right? I mean, sometimes people show up… and we secretly, or not secretly, wish they didn’t! We need to show up like it matters. 

“To matter” is to live with intention… to focus our talents, our skills, our knowledge, our desires, toward the ultimate goal of positively impacting the lives of others; to spend our lives in a relent less and unapologetic pursuit of Significance.

Using a combination of engaging wit that makes him exceptionally personable, with profound wisdom that drives straight to the heart of every audience member, Pete Smith helps every attendee answer the core fundamental question that exists deep within their soul: Do I Matter?

By the end of this presentation, audience members will be inspired to action, not just because they know with certainty that they matter but, more importantly, because they’re challenged and encouraged to go out into the world to explore just how much they can “Matter More.”

At the conclusion of this presentation, the attendees will:

1. Increase their sense of ownership and accountability, even with unfavorable options
2. Align the concepts of feelings, actions, and identity to maximize motivation and performance
3. Recognize how a “perfect environment” can minimize growth and why resolve is key

Pete Smith

Stroke survivor. International speaker. Author. Coffee shop owner. Wrestling coach. No matter the role or title, Pete Smith’s focus has been the same for over 25 years: help individuals, teams, and organizations run their race to win. He is the author of Dare to Matter, the #1 Best Seller in the HR and Personnel Management Category, and the #2 Best Seller in the Business Motivation and Self-Improvement category. In addition to speaking throughout the country, from 2020 - 2024, Pete successfully founded operated, and recently sold Matter More Coffee, the award-winning coffee shop located in Hampstead, NC. Lastly, in his seemingly spare time that his wife does not believe he has, Pete is a high school wrestling coach and was awarded the Conference Coach of the Year in 2023.

Workshops

Creative Problem-Solving Techniques for AEC Marketers – Julie Shaffer

In the dynamic and competitive world of AEC marketing, traditional approaches often fall short. To truly captivate your audience and differentiate your firm, you need to think outside the box and embrace creative problem-solving techniques. This interactive session will equip AEC marketers with practical strategies and tools to unleash their creativity and tackle even the most complex marketing challenges with fresh, innovative solutions.

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Leading Interview Prep with Confidence – Keelin Cox

Congratulations! Your team just got shortlisted and now comes the fun part – a client interview! While many of us AEC Marketers are very familiar with proposal work, mastering interview prep is a crucial tool to helping our teams win work. From shortlist to interview, this workshop will walk participants through interview prep best practices, provide a simple process for preparing your team, and troubleshoot potential barriers along the way. At the end of the session participants will apply this information to interview scenarios in small groups.  This interactive workshop is split into three sections: interview prep best practices, a simple roadmap, and potential challenges. The workshop will end with each group assigned a different interviewing scenario to brainstorm.

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Join us at the Wednesday Night Social!

Step back to the iconic 1950s-1960s era, where the glitz and glamour of mid-century Palm Springs come alive under the stars. Join us by the pool for an unforgettable evening that captures the essence of Retro Palm Springs—think classic cocktails, vintage tunes, and stylish ambiance reminiscent of Hollywood's golden age.

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As you mingle with fellow SMPS professionals, soak in the relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, where the spirit of Marilyn, the Rat Pack, and the desert oasis's charm converge – a time when big beautiful cars, family destination vacations and space travel were all the rage. Don your finest retro attire and be transported to a night of timeless elegance, laughter, and celebration—a perfect kickoff to the PRC 2025 experience.