Infraday Southwest 2026

Kimberly Moon serves as Engineering Department Director and City Engineer for the City of Avondale, Arizona, where she leads engineering and capital infrastructure initiatives. She brings nearly 30 years of experience across local government and the private sector, with extensive expertise in capital improvement programs, utilities, transportation, public works, and project delivery. Prior to joining Avondale, Kimberly held several engineering and capital program leadership roles with the City of Chandler and the Town of Prescott Valley. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Northern Arizona University as well as a degree in Management from Yavapai College. Throughout her career, Kimberly has focused on collaborative leadership, streamlined project delivery, and building effective teams to deliver infrastructure that supports growing communities.

Melanie Sheldon is Senior Director of Business Development at the Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED), where she has spent more than a decade supporting business growth and economic development initiatives across the state. She works at the intersection of government and industry, with particular engagement in sectors including advanced energy, critical minerals, battery materials, and emerging technologies. Her career also includes nearly seven years with the Australian Taxation Office, where she worked in indirect tax and small and medium enterprise compliance. Sheldon studied Business Administration and Management at RMIT and has become an active voice in Nevada’s expanding innovation and economic development ecosystem.

Sharon B. Megdal, Ph.D. is Director of the University of Arizona Water Resources Research Center (WRRC), a Cooperative Extension center and a research unit in the College of Agriculture, Life & Environmental Sciences. Other primary titles are Professor and Specialist in the Department of Environmental Science, C.W. & Modene Neely Endowed Professor, and Distinguished Outreach Professor.

Sharon Megdal bridges the academic, practitioner, and civil society communities through water policy and management research, education, and engagement programs. The geographic scope of Dr. Megdal’s work ranges from local to international. Applied research projects include analysis of water management, policy, and governance in water-scarce regions and transboundary aquifer assessment.

Sharon Megdal is the lead editor of the book, Shared Borders, Shared Waters: Israeli-Palestinian and Colorado River Basin Water Challenges, and she has guest edited several special journal issues. Dr. Megdal teaches the graduate course “Water Policy in Arizona and Semi-arid Regions”. In 2020, she was awarded the Warren A. Hall Medal for lifetime achievement in water resources research and education by the Universities Council on Water Resources, and in 2024 she was named a fellow of the American Water Resources Association.

Sharon Megdal serves on the Board of Governors for the Kasser Joint Institute for Food, Water, and Energy Security, the Leadership Team for the Colorado River Basin Water & Tribes Initiative, the Women in Water Diplomacy Network’s Global Leadership Council, and Governor Hobbs’ Water Policy Council. Past public service includes serving for 12 years as a popularly elected Director for the Central Arizona Project. Other past service includes serving as a member of the Arizona Corporation Commission, the State Transportation Board, and the Arizona Medical Board. Sharon Megdal holds a Ph.D. in Economics from Princeton University.

Kate Kaminski is President of the Arizona Region at Howard Hughes Communities, where she oversees strategy, investment, development, and operations for Teravalis, a 37,000-acre master-planned community in Phoenix’s West Valley. She brings more than 20 years of experience in real estate development, enterprise leadership, capital investment, and organizational transformation. Previously, she served as Global Chief Operating Officer of Walton Group of Companies, overseeing international operations and strategic initiatives. Kaminski also serves on the Board of Directors of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council and the Executive Committee of Valley Partnership, supporting economic development, infrastructure investment, and responsible growth across Arizona.

Patrick Ptak is Executive Vice President of Executive Initiatives at the Arizona Commerce Authority, where he supports strategic initiatives advancing Arizona’s economic development, business investment, and innovation. Since joining the organization in 2020, he has helped promote Arizona’s emergence as a national leader in semiconductor manufacturing, advanced technology, and industrial growth. Previously, he served as Director of Communications and Senior Press Secretary for Arizona Governor Doug Ducey and as Communications Director for U.S. Representative Martha McSally. Ptak holds a bachelor’s degree in English and Political Science from the University of Dayton.

AJ Waters is Field COO for the Public Sector at Procore Technologies, where he works with public agencies and infrastructure owners to improve construction technology, project delivery, and accountability. He brings more than 20 years of experience across construction, technology, project management, and digital transformation, with a particular focus on helping organizations successfully adopt new tools and processes. Prior to Procore, Waters served as Chief Evangelist at Kahua and held senior industry solutions leadership roles at InEight. He also worked at Google, where he helped lead the digital transformation of the company’s global data center construction organization and implementation of construction management technology. Waters is also the creator of TheEngiNerdLife, a platform and podcast focused on making construction technology, innovation, and digital transformation more accessible to industry professionals. He holds a Master of Science in Management and Engineering from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Physics from Doane University.

Aaron Cohen is a construction technology leader, educator, and author with extensive experience in infrastructure estimating, project controls, and construction management. He currently serves as Manager of Estimating Solutions at DEPCOM Power and as a Faculty Associate at Arizona State University’s Del E. Webb School of Construction. His career includes founding and operating a trenchless construction company and leading the development of enterprise estimating software at InEight. He is also a contributing author of several leading construction textbooks, bringing a unique combination of field experience, technology innovation, and academic expertise to the infrastructure industry.

Derek Bierd is a Project Manager at Haydon Companies in Phoenix, Arizona, with more than 15 years of experience in construction and project delivery. His background includes roles with Kiewit, Okland Construction, and The Walsh Group, spanning engineering, design management, quality control, and construction management. At Haydon, he oversees public-sector and commercial projects, including municipal infrastructure improvements, recreational facilities, and building renovations. Derek holds a bachelor’s degree in Construction Engineering from the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

Nick Osborne is an Implementation Manager at Procon Consulting, where he helps infrastructure owners maximize the value of their Project Management Information Systems (PMIS).He brings more than a decade of experience spanning construction technology, product management, solution engineering, product marketing, and software implementation. Prior to Procon, Osborne served as Director of Product Marketing at Kahua and held multiple product, solution engineering, and marketing leadership roles at InEight. His work has focused on bridging the gap between technology and real-world construction challenges, helping organizations implement connected solutions that improve project and program management. Osborne holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Capella University, where he graduated summa cum laude.

Nick Myers serves as Chairman of the Arizona Corporation Commission, where he helps oversee the regulation of Arizona’s electric, gas, water and telecommunications utilities. He was elected to the Commission in 2022 after previously serving as a policy advisor and later as Vice Chairman. Myers has been actively involved in Arizona’s energy policy, including issues surrounding grid reliability, nuclear power, natural gas infrastructure and the growing electricity demands of data centers. Before entering public service, he spent more than two decades in technology and engineering, including roles as a software engineering manager and technology company CEO. His combination of regulatory, technology and energy experience provides a unique perspective on the infrastructure needed to support Arizona’s continued growth.

Soma King is Manager of Digital Innovation at Arizona Public Service, bringing more than fifteen years of experience in analytics and a doctorate in physics. At APS, Soma helps modernize decisions across customer services, electricity distribution and transmission. Previous work in healthcare included developing analytical models to identify fraud, waste and abuse, alongside improving customer engagement. Soma’s background connects advanced data science with the operational challenges of essential infrastructure. At Infraday Southwest, Soma will bring a utility innovation perspective to the discussion of electricity demand, grid planning and the infrastructure required to support data centers, manufacturing and regional economic growth.

Cheryl Lombard is President and CEO of CREDA Arizona, formerly NAIOP Arizona, where she leads efforts to advance commercial real estate development, infrastructure investment, and economic growth. She brings more than 20 years of experience in public policy, government relations, natural resources, and regulatory affairs. Previously, she served as Senior Program Director of Power, Infrastructure & Minerals at ClearPath, President and CEO of Valley Partnership, and Government Relations Director at The Nature Conservancy. Lombard holds a Juris Doctor from Southwestern Law School and a Master of Public Administration from California State University, Northridge.

Mark Goldstein is President of International Research Center, where he has provided consulting, custom research and strategic support to business, legal and public policy clients since 1992. He is a technology visionary, advisor and entrepreneur with extensive expertise across telecommunications, information technology, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, biotechnology, sustainability and emerging technologies. Goldstein serves on the Board and Executive Committees of the Arizona Technology Council and the Arizona Telecommunications and Information Council and is active across Arizona’s technology and innovation community. His work has included research and thought leadership on smart cities, AI, broadband infrastructure, sustainability and emerging technology trends. He is also a frequent speaker and presenter, sharing insights on how new technologies are transforming cities, infrastructure, business and society. Based in Arizona, Goldstein brings decades of experience connecting technology, public policy and strategic planning to help organizations understand and prepare for the next generation of innovation.

Carol Ackerman is Co-Founder and Senior Vice President of Development at MAXUMAL, where she helps drive strategic growth, development partnerships and major project opportunities. She brings extensive experience in large-scale real estate development, including master-planned communities, mixed-use projects, resorts and complex developments requiring coordination across government, investors and private-sector stakeholders. At MAXUMAL, Ackerman has helped secure more than $800 million in MOU pre-sale agreements while supporting the company’s initial projects and market expansion. She is also Principal of Developer Services, where she has advised developers on entitlements, permitting, governance and stakeholder coordination, including projects on the Gila River Indian Community. Based in Phoenix, Ackerman brings a combination of development, strategic partnerships, investor relations and project delivery experience to the rapidly growing Southwest market.

In 2025, Tim Roemer was announced as the CEO of GMI. Prior to becoming the CEO, he was the Chief Security Officer at GMI for two years, where he helped protect GMI and our clients from evolving global security threats. He started his career by serving for 10 years at the CIA, including 2 years assigned to the White House Situation Room, where he provided national security updates to the President, Vice President, and the National Security Council.

After ten years at the CIA, he returned to his home state of Arizona to work for Governor Ducey. He was appointed by Governor Ducey and unanimously approved by the Arizona Senate to be the Director of Homeland Security and was the only person in the country to lead the Department of Homeland Security and, at the same time, serve as the Chief Information Security Officer, responsible for overseeing the State’s cybersecurity team. His responsibilities included cybersecurity, border security, and counterterrorism. He also co-chaired the Arizona-Mexico Commission’s Security Committee and served on the Arizona Human Trafficking Council.

Todd Johnson is Director of Development for the Mission Critical sector at Ryan Companies, where his work focuses on data center real estate. He brings a development perspective to the infrastructure requirements behind cloud computing and artificial intelligence. In a published Ryan interview, Johnson discusses core, AI and edge facilities, electrical equipment constraints, and the coordination required between site development and building systems. His perspective connects investment decisions with practical delivery requirements. At Infraday Southwest, Johnson will join the conversation about technology campuses, supporting utilities and the conditions communities need to create for the next generation of digital infrastructure investment.

Gerardo A. Fierro serves as Executive Director of the New Mexico Border Authority, where he leads initiatives focused on cross-border trade, infrastructure development, and economic growth. Appointed by New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, he oversees strategic investments in ports of entry, transportation, water infrastructure, and regional development. He brings extensive experience in logistics, transportation planning, project management, and international trade. Previously, he served as a Regional Transportation Analyst with the El Paso Metropolitan Planning Organization and held leadership positions in transportation and logistics. Fierro holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business from New Mexico State University.

Markus Coleman is Assistant Director for the Street Transportation Department at the City of Phoenix, bringing more than three decades of experience with the city. He previously served as Phoenix’s Light Rail Administrator, helping advance major transit investments and light rail expansion across the region. His experience includes transportation planning, project management, transit-oriented development and the delivery of complex infrastructure projects. Coleman has played a key role in Phoenix and Valley Metro initiatives, including the South Central Light Rail Extension and other major investments expanding the region’s transportation network. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Urban and Metropolitan Studies from Arizona State University.

Milos Vasiljevic is Transportation Program Management Director at HDR and a licensed professional engineer with more than 20 years of experience in the engineering and construction industry. He leads HDR’s transportation program management practice, developing integrated delivery strategies, strengthening project controls and guiding multidisciplinary teams on large, complex infrastructure programs. Throughout his career, he has supported owners in the procurement, design, construction and oversight of major transportation projects, with a focus on execution efficiency, risk mitigation and strategic outcomes. His project experience includes the I-10 Wild Horse Pass Corridor, Carolina Crossroads, South Mountain Freeway, Eagle P3 Project and Tappan Zee Bridge Replacement. He previously held roles at HDR spanning program management, project management, project controls and bridge engineering. Vasiljevic holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and an M.S. in Engineering Mechanics from the University of Arizona.

John Willett leads transportation work for the City of Buckeye, bringing nearly forty years of experience in traffic engineering, design and planning. Previously identified as the city’s traffic engineer, he now serves in a transportation deputy director role. His public discussions address how road networks and traffic infrastructure can keep pace with Buckeye’s growth. He has also highlighted the importance of safely moving vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, students, goods and transit riders. At Infraday Southwest, Willett will bring a municipal transportation perspective to the discussion of investment priorities, expanding capacity and connecting rapidly growing communities with employment and development across Arizona.

Brandon Robinson, P.E., is a Civil Engineer specializing in aviation infrastructure at Kimley-Horn, where he has worked for more than a decade. His expertise includes airfield geometry design, construction administration, and civil engineering for airport development projects. Based in the Southwest, Robinson brings experience supporting the planning, design, and delivery of aviation infrastructure. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Arizona State University and is a licensed Professional Engineer.

Christopher Kuzdas is Water Program Director at the Environmental Defense Fund, where he leads work focused on water security, governance, and sustainable water management across Arizona and the Colorado River Basin. He has more than a decade of experience working on Western water issues and previously served as co-lead of the Water for Arizona Coalition. Kuzdas also teaches Water & Society at Coconino Community College and has held research and teaching roles at Arizona State University. He holds a Ph.D. in Sustainability with a focus on water, governance, and political science, as well as a Master of Public Administration from Arizona State University.

Lauren Hixson is the Water Resources Manager for Gilbert, Arizona, where she leads water resource planning and supports the community’s long-term water security and resiliency efforts. She has held several water and energy planning roles with Gilbert since 2020, providing policy guidance, research, analysis, and long-range resource planning. Previously, Hixson spent more than seven years with WestLand Resources, working on water and wastewater engineering, hydraulic modeling, master planning, infrastructure design, and assured water supply permitting. Her experience spans both the engineering and policy sides of water infrastructure, with a particular focus on water supply and resilience in Arizona. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Arizona.

Nicole Petker, PE, is a Water Resources Advisor with the City of Mesa, where she works on water policy, water law, planning, and management. She is a registered Professional Engineer in Arizona with experience spanning municipal water and wastewater systems, stormwater management, groundwater remediation, and industrial water treatment. Prior to joining Mesa, Petker spent more than seven years with the Town of Queen Creek, managing water resources, regulatory compliance, groundwater recharge, water supply planning, and infrastructure programs. She previously served as an Environmental Engineer and Project Manager with the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona, supporting the planning, financing, and delivery of drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure projects. Her background also includes engineering and project management work involving water treatment, flood control, drainage, environmental permitting, and regulatory compliance. Petker studied Environmental Engineering at Arizona State University and earned a Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering from Norwich University.

Ted Cooke chairs the Long-Term Water Augmentation Committee at the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona and serves on its board. He previously led Central Arizona Project, working with other Colorado River states and federal partners on drought and water supply challenges. His earlier career included the development, financing, operation and management of commercial solar and geothermal power facilities. Cooke holds degrees in physics, business administration and management. At Infraday Southwest, he will bring experience in water policy, utility operations and infrastructure finance to the discussion of augmentation, long-term supply reliability and the investments needed for Arizona’s future economic growth.

Cole Pihl serves as Water Resources Manager for the City of Avondale, Arizona, overseeing water resource planning, conservation programs, water quality, and regulatory compliance. Previously, he held positions with the Arizona Department of Water Resources and Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, focusing on groundwater supply and demand, Colorado River water entitlements, environmental regulation, and public water systems. Cole holds a Master of Public Policy in Environmental Policy from Arizona State University and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from the University of Arizona. His work focuses on advancing sustainable water management and practical policy solutions for Arizona's growing communities.

Derrick A. Denis is a world-renowned practitioner, educator, inventor, author, expert witness, and industry leader whose life's work is dedicated to preventing people from dying early. For more than three decades, he has helped organizations identify, evaluate, and control environmental, occupational, and indoor air quality hazards. An internationally recognized speaker, published author, inventor, and patent holder, Mr. Denis is a trusted authority on industrial hygiene, sewer gas intrusion, Legionella, mold, wildfire contamination, and lithium-ion battery fire investigations.

Rodney Boden is Vice President, Investment and Development at ViaWest Group, where he works on industrial development and acquisitions in Arizona and California, as well as build-to-suit relationships. His experience spans investment analysis, underwriting, entitlements, design coordination and construction management. He previously worked in development leadership and at HFF/JLL Capital Markets. Rodney holds an MBA and a Master of Real Estate Development from Arizona State University and serves as a director of the W. P. Carey Foundation.

Sombuddha Bagchi is a Senior Mechanical Engineer at ASM, specializing in semiconductor manufacturing equipment and advanced hardware design. Based in Phoenix, he focuses on research and development of atomic layer deposition chamber components, including electrostatic chucks, heating systems, and gas delivery technologies. He holds a PhD in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from the University of California, San Diego, and a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Jadavpur University. With more than eight years of research experience, his expertise spans thermal fluids, aerospace engineering, combustion systems, and fluid dynamics. His research has been published in leading peer-reviewed scientific journals.

James Smith, CEcD, serves as Economic Development Director for the City of Goodyear, Arizona, where he leads initiatives focused on business attraction, investment, and economic growth. He brings nearly two decades of experience in economic development, workforce strategy, and business development across Arizona. Previously, he served as Economic and Workforce Development Director for Pinal County, Economic Development Director for the Town of Fountain Hills, and Business Development Director at A.R. Mays Construction. Smith holds a Master of Public Administration from San José State University and serves on the board of the Arizona Association for Economic Development.

Andrew Smith is Senior Manager of Environment, Health and Safety at Amkor Technology, specializing in environmental compliance, workplace safety, and semiconductor manufacturing operations. Previously, he held environmental and safety leadership positions at TSMC Arizona, where he supported the development and operational readiness of its advanced semiconductor fabrication facility. His experience includes environmental permitting, regulatory compliance, wastewater management, and industrial safety programs. Earlier in his career, Andrew served as an Engineering Supervisor and Utilities Engineer at the Arizona Corporation Commission and worked with the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona. He holds a bachelor's degree in Environmental Engineering Technology from Arizona State University.

Dominic Ranallo is Manager of Facilities Water/Wastewater at Amkor Technology, specializing in water infrastructure and sustainable operations for advanced semiconductor manufacturing facilities. Previously, he held engineering positions at FTD Solutions, where he developed water management strategies, modeled facility water usage, and helped semiconductor manufacturers improve conservation, efficiency, and environmental performance. His experience includes water system optimization, infrastructure planning, engineering analysis, and supporting projects from conceptual design through commissioning. Dominic holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Case Western Reserve University. His work focuses on improving industrial water management and supporting reliable, resource-efficient semiconductor manufacturing operations.

Mike Czechowski, CEcD, serves as Chief Economic Development Officer for the City of Tucson, bringing more than 20 years of experience in economic development, real estate, and public-sector leadership. He has negotiated more than 24 development agreements and helped attract over $1.5 billion in capital investment to Tucson. His work focuses on business attraction, industrial development, infrastructure, and public-private partnerships that support regional economic growth. In 2025, he was named Economic Developer of the Year by the Arizona Association for Economic Development.

Shawn Hutchinson serves as Training Director of the Phoenix Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC), where he leads workforce training and apprenticeship programs for Arizona's electrical industry. With more than 35 years of experience in the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), he has held positions ranging from journeyman electrician to superintendent. He serves on the Maricopa County Workforce Development Board and the Workforce Arizona Council, helping shape workforce development strategies across the state. Hutchinson focuses on preparing the next generation of skilled electrical workers to support Arizona's growing investments in semiconductor manufacturing, data centers, energy, and critical infrastructure.

James Jackson, MBA, serves as Campus Director at San Joaquin Valley College in Phoenix, Arizona, where he oversees campus operations and supports student success and career-focused education. He brings more than 20 years of management experience, including over a decade in higher education, with expertise in leadership development, employee training, and organizational performance. Previously, he held several leadership positions at Grand Canyon University, including Regional Manager and Learning & Development Manager. Jackson holds a Master of Business Administration and a bachelor's degree in Applied Management from Grand Canyon University.

Ben Taylor is a Workforce Development Leader at DBA Construction, Inc., based in Phoenix, Arizona, where he focuses on recruiting, employee training, and improving field performance. He brings experience in construction operations, workforce development, and safety training, with an emphasis on building skilled, high-performing teams. Previously, he served as Operations Manager and Training Coordinator at Trench-Ade, supporting workforce training and operational efficiency. Taylor also served as an Education Officer in the Army National Guard, bringing additional experience in training and personnel development to his work in the construction industry.

Passionate about driving growth and fostering development, Josh is dedicated to enhancing the durability and prosperity of the community. With a unique ability to navigate the intricacies of government processes, Josh leads initiatives that fuel economic growth, attract investment, and elevate the quality of life for residents. As a committed advocate for the city’s success, Josh thrives on transforming visionary projects into tangible outcomes, ensuring that development aligns with both community needs and long-term objectives.

Dustin Soderman serves as Chief Operating Officer of Tempe Community Action Agency, where he oversees operations, facilities, human resources, technology, and organizational strategy. He brings more than 15 years of experience in facilities management, capital projects, and operational leadership across higher education and nonprofit organizations. Previously, he served as Director of Facilities and Operations at Arizona State University, overseeing four major recreation facilities valued at more than $300 million. He holds a Master of Science in Recreation Administration from Southern Illinois University and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh.

Taylor Earl is Managing Partner at Earl & Curley, a Phoenix-based law firm specializing in land use, zoning, and real estate development. With more than 12 years leading the firm, he advises developers, property owners, and businesses on complex entitlement processes, rezoning, master-planned communities, and major development projects across Arizona. His experience spans residential, commercial, industrial, and mixed-use developments, including some of the state's largest and most strategically significant properties. He earned his Juris Doctor from UCLA School of Law and has been recognized by The Best Lawyers in America for his work in Land Use and Zoning Law and Municipal Law.

Carter Froelich, CPA, is Founder and National Managing Principal of Launch – Development Finance Advisors, bringing more than 40 years of experience in real estate development and infrastructure finance. He has structured billions of dollars in public infrastructure financing for hundreds of development projects nationwide, specializing in special taxing districts, public-private partnerships, and innovative financing strategies. Previously, he co-founded and served as Managing Principal of Development Planning & Financing Group (DPFG) and currently serves on the board of Land Advisors Organization. He holds a master's degree in Real Estate Development from the University of Southern California and hosts the Land to Lots™ podcast, focused on land development, infrastructure financing, and homebuilding.

Alan Claypool serves as Assistant Chief Information Officer for Business Solutions at the City of Phoenix, where he leads enterprise technology modernization, artificial intelligence initiatives, and digital transformation. With more than 30 years of technology leadership experience, including over 20 years in executive roles, he has held positions as CEO, CIO, CTO, and COO across public and private organizations. At the City of Phoenix, he oversees major technology initiatives supporting 14,500 employees and services for approximately 1.6 million residents, including $130 million in modernization projects. A U.S. Air Force veteran and author of The [2038] Technology Almanac, he holds a bachelor's degree in Computer Science from Bowling Green State University and a master's degree in Management from Bellevue University.

David Stanley is Manager of Regulatory and External Affairs at Capstone Copper Pinto Valley. His professional background spans more than twenty-five years in business, regulatory, project and risk management. Pinto Valley is an Arizona copper operation in the historic Globe-Miami mining district, where infrastructure, resource availability and responsible production are closely connected. Stanley’s role provides a regulatory and external affairs perspective on the conditions surrounding mine operations and development. At Infraday Southwest, he will join the critical minerals discussion, bringing that perspective to questions about copper production, permitting, supporting infrastructure and the relationships between mining investment and Arizona’s industrial future.

Joseph Keffer is Chief Engineer for Hydraulics and Pumping at Freeport-McMoRan, bringing an engineering perspective to the infrastructure supporting mining operations. His professional background includes graduate study at the University of Arizona in mineral processing, geometallurgy and extractive metallurgy. Keffer has served as program chair for the SME Arizona Conference and is listed as immediate past chair of the SME Tucson Section. He has also participated in discussions about mining innovation and technology. At Infraday Southwest, Keffer will join the critical minerals panel to contribute a perspective on pumping, water systems and infrastructure requirements behind copper production and industrial development.

Michael Maier is Mining Sales Manager at AllTerra Central, bringing more than 25 years of experience in engineering, geospatial technology, surveying, GIS, and machine control systems. Previously, he spent over 20 years as an engineer with SITECH, supporting technology implementation across complex industrial and mining environments. His expertise includes geospatial solutions, mining operations, project implementation, and advanced surveying technologies. Michael has worked on major projects internationally, often in remote and challenging locations. A frequent speaker, author, and guest lecturer, he advocates for advancing mine surveying standards, professional development, and the adoption of innovative technologies across the mining industry.

Julia Schmidt is a Mine Closure Project Manager at AECOM, specializing in environmental engineering, mine reclamation, and sustainable resource management. She leads multidisciplinary teams delivering mine closure planning, remediation, water treatment, and post-mining land use solutions across North and South America. Previously, Julia held engineering and project management positions at Jacobs, Newmont Mining, and Barrick Gold, focusing on environmental compliance, hydrogeology, geochemistry, and mine water management. She holds a Master of Engineering in Civil and Environmental Engineering from the University of Nevada, Reno, and a bachelor's degree in Environmental Engineering from Missouri University of Science and Technology.

Matt Baker is a Senior Special Project Engineer at Empire Cat, bringing more than 11 years of experience in heavy equipment service, technical operations, and field support. Throughout his career with Empire Cat, he has held positions spanning equipment maintenance, service planning, parts sales, and field service leadership. Before assuming his current role in March 2026, he served as Field Service Leadperson in Morenci, Arizona, overseeing field service activities. His background combines hands-on technical expertise with operational leadership and experience supporting heavy equipment operations in Arizona.

Jessica Larson is a Digital Solution Specialist at Microsoft, helping organizations accelerate cloud transformation and adopt AI solutions through Microsoft Azure. She works with customers to align technology investments with business priorities, from solution design and architecture through deployment and adoption. Previously, Larson spent more than six years as a Cloud & AI Solution Advisor at Microsoft, partnering with enterprise and mid-market customers on scalable cloud, data, and AI strategies. She is a Microsoft Certified AI Business Professional with expertise in artificial intelligence, cloud strategy, digital transformation, and strategic planning. Larson is based in the Phoenix area and holds a background in business management from Western Governors University.

Brett Dooley is a business development leader for Bosch’s industrial vertical in North America. His background includes mechanical engineering, industrial repair, technical sales and service as an electronics technician in the United States Navy submarine force. In earlier work at Bosch Rexroth, he collaborated with business owners and engineers on motion control and automation challenges. Dooley has also been active with the Arizona Technology Council, including its energy and e-mobility community. At Infraday Southwest, he will bring an industrial technology perspective to the discussion of practical automation, robotics and the opportunities to improve how infrastructure and manufacturing assets operate daily.

Matthew Prater teaches robotics and digital fabrication at the University of Advancing Technology. His background combines software engineering, chemistry, education and manufacturing. Before teaching at UAT, he spent thirteen years at Cardinal Health in quality, manufacturing and research roles involving radioactive diagnostic medicines. Using robotic synthesis systems sparked his interest in software and embedded systems. He also taught chemistry and research courses and has worked as an application architect in finance. Prater holds graduate degrees from Regis University and Arizona State University. At Infraday Southwest, he will contribute a practical education and engineering perspective on robotics, automation and infrastructure operations.

Lisa L. Levy is Founder and CEO of Lcubed Consulting, specializing in artificial intelligence strategy, organizational transformation, innovation, and operational excellence. With more than 25 years of leadership experience, she helps organizations translate emerging technologies and strategic priorities into measurable business results. She developed AI ValuePath™, a framework for aligning AI adoption with business objectives, governance, and operational readiness. Previously, Lisa held leadership positions at LifeLock and Desert Schools Federal Credit Union. A three-time bestselling author, speaker, and business advisor, she has been recognized among Arizona's Top 50 Women Leaders for her contributions to innovation and leadership.

Fahad Shuja is Innovation Product Manager at PrePass, bringing more than 14 years of experience in product management, transportation technology, and smart city innovation. Previously, he served as Director of Product Management at Fortran Traffic Systems, where he led the development of Fenyx, a platform that helps municipalities manage traffic signals and integrate emerging mobility technologies. His earlier work with Good Roads included connected and autonomous vehicle initiatives, road information systems, and tools supporting municipal infrastructure operations. His expertise spans artificial intelligence, connected vehicle technologies, the Internet of Things, and software solutions for public agencies and businesses.

Timothy Keenan is Vice President of Construction and Development at Castle Hill Partners, where he is responsible for the construction and development of the Saddleback master-planned community in Peoria, Arizona. He brings extensive experience in real estate development, land acquisition, entitlement, planning and engineering across residential, commercial, multifamily and industrial projects. Previously, Keenan held senior development and acquisition roles with Vaulter and DHI Communities/DR Horton, overseeing projects across Arizona and other high-growth U.S. markets. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Government from Arizona State University.

Joshua Wills-King is Vice President of Aerospace and Defense at the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, focusing on defense industry growth, national security innovation, and economic development. Previously, he served as Department of Defense Engagement Manager for Defense Innovation OnRamp Hubs, connecting emerging technologies and private-sector innovators with national security priorities. He also serves as a U.S. Air Force Reservist specializing in fighter avionics and as a strategic advisor to Knightwerx. Joshua holds a Master of Science in Intelligence Analysis from Johns Hopkins University and has studied international security at the University of Cambridge. His work advances defense innovation and industry partnerships.

Athena Sanchez is Senior Communications Manager for the City of Phoenix’s Community and Economic Development Department, where she leads strategic communications supporting business attraction, workforce development, advanced manufacturing, and international investment. She has extensive experience in public affairs, media relations, and stakeholder engagement, including communications for major transportation, water infrastructure, and economic development initiatives. Sanchez also serves as Co-Chair of the Arizona Bioscience Roadmap Communications Committee at the Flinn Foundation, helping position Arizona as a national leader in bioscience and innovation. She holds a Master of Arts in Communication from Northern Arizona University and a graduate certificate in Global Management, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation from Thunderbird School of Global Management.