SMPS Connecticut Members Take on the SMPS Northeast Regional Conference!
Posted by Marta Dabrowski on Apr. 15, 2026 / Event Recap, SMPS CT / Subscribe 0
For this year's SMPS Northeast Regional Conference (NERC), SMPS Connecticut was proud to be well represented with 21 Connecticut members traveling to Washington, DC to learn, connect, and grow alongside marketing and business development professionals from across the region.
Hosted annually, SMPS NERC brings together AEC marketers, business developers, and firm leaders for several days of education, networking, and inspiration. The conference features thought‑provoking keynote speakers, skill‑building breakout sessions, and meaningful networking opportunities. From emerging technologies and leadership development to proposal strategy and presentation skills, NERC offers actionable insights attendees can take back to their firms and chapters.
This year’s conference delivered on that promise and our Connecticut members came back energized, inspired, and full of ideas!
Key Takeaways
Navigating AI Without Losing the Human Touch
Lucy Shao, Marketing Coordinator, Pare Corporation, reflected on a recurring conference theme: while technology continues to evolve, storytelling and strategic insight remain our greatest differentiators: “My key takeaway was how to position my firm in an age of generative AI. I appreciated the importance of adding a human touch into proposals in order to differentiate our firm from other firms. AI can only work with existing data, but we can craft stories and narratives that appeal to buyers. We also are the ones who network with buyers and know what they are truly looking for, information that the AI cannot obtain by just reading an RFP.”
Leading with Authenticity
For Nichole Petersen, CPSM, Marketing Director, Flow Tech, Inc., leadership development stood out most: "The session about the A.U.T.H.E.N.T.I.C Leadership framework provided more in‑depth insight into how leading with vulnerability, honesty, and kindness further develops teamwork and enhances culture among your departments.”
Elevating Interview and Presentation Skills
Alexis Guerra, Senior Marketing Strategist, M&J Engineering Inc., shared how a session on presentation coaching sparked new ideas she’s eager to apply: “One of my biggest takeaways came from the session on becoming an exceptional presentation coach. I came back with a lot of ideas I’m excited to try during our next shortlist interview. A few that really stuck with me were the importance of meeting casually one-on-one with each person on the interview team beforehand to get a sense of how they’re feeling or if there’s anything important on their mind, along with always modeling the energy you want the team to bring. I also liked the idea that a strong presentation should speak to both sides of the brain by balancing the technical facts with the softer side of the conversation, like helping the client picture what the future looks like if your team is selected.”
PRO TIPS
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"This was my second conference, and my pro tip is put yourself out there! Talk to people you’ve never talked to, practice your networking skills, and volunteer on a committee! It is a great space to meet people and make connections." - Lucy Shao, Marketing Coordinator, Pare Corporation
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“Ask the hotel staff or other conference attendees about additional stairwells, elevators, or bathrooms. You’ll be surprised to find lesser‑known locations for these facilities that will save you time.” - Nichole Petersen, CPSM, Marketing Director, Flow Tech, Inc.
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“After the first couple of sessions, I realized how helpful it was to get to the room a little early. It gave me a chance to introduce myself to the person next to me and start a conversation before the session got started. My biggest tip would be to take advantage of those few extra minutes. Conferences can actually be great for introverts because the conversation starters are already built in (Go figure!). ” - Alexis Guerra, Senior Marketing Strategist, M&J Engineering Inc.
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"Having trouble deciding which sessions to attend? Check out the SMPS NERC app! Many presentations are posted in advance, giving you a sneak peek at the content so you can pick the sessions that best match your interests!" - Marta Dabrowski, CPSM, WSP USA Inc.
dc memories
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"A fun memory was singing Pink Pony Club on stage during the DC After Dark event!" - Lucy Shao, Marketing Coordinator, Pare Corporation
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“The hour‑long Uber ride because of the presidential motorcade.” - Nichole Petersen, CPSM, Marketing Director, Flow Tech, Inc.
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"I really enjoyed the dine around experience. It was great getting to know members from other SMPS chapters and talking about the similarities and differences between where we’re from, along with the challenges and opportunities in our different sectors. Talking with people from DC especially gave me some great recommendations for a future trip back. One of my favorite DC experiences was taking advantage of the warm early morning weather and going for an 8-mile run through the National Mall. It was my way of resetting before jumping back into the conference rush. The cherry blossoms were also pretty hard to beat!" - Alexis Guerra, Senior Marketing Strategist, M&J Engineering Inc.
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"It was great to attend the first‑ever CPSM breakfast at NERC. Having dedicated time to connect with fellow CPSMs created a meaningful opportunity to share experiences and exchange ideas." - Marta Dabrowski, CPSM, WSP USA Inc.
Bringing It Back to Connecticut
This year’s SMPS NERC delivered valuable insights, professional growth, and unforgettable memories. We’re proud of the 21 SMPS Connecticut members who represented our chapter and look forward to seeing how these ideas, skills, and connections shape our work and chapter throughout the year!
Thank you to our contributors and 2026 NERC attendees: Stephanie Beals, Laura Berdebes, Marta Dabrowski, Aline Halle, Alex LeBreche, Susie Mehring, Robyn Minella, Hilary Nieukirk, Lisa Pavano, Nichole Petersen, Kathy Rodo, Sharon Pomeroy, Diana Alcazar, Erica Burns, Alexis Guerra, Melissa Hanson, Rosa Lozano, Karina Mallaeva, Keegan Burch, Danielle Mercier, and Lucy Shao.
📸 Be sure to check LinkedIn for great group photos and conference highlights shared by our members!
Be part of something unforgettable at SMPS NERC 2027!
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