Customer relationship management (CRM) systems can transform how AEC firms manage pursuits, clients, and project information, but only if implemented effectively. Join us for stories from two marketing leaders and CRM implementors who will share their experiences and knowledge, including tips for firms of varying sizes, lessons learned, and practical advice. Discover how firm structure and culture influence adoption, and gain insights on aligning your CRM with business development goals. Whether exploring implementation or refining an existing system, this discussion will help you clarify your “why” and set your firm up for success.

The SMPS Twin Cities chapter welcomes and encourages participation from diverse backgrounds. A 15% discount is available for members of DBE, WBE, MBE, VBR, and LGBTBE firms. Please contact [email protected] for your discount code before registration.

Schedule:
8:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.: Registration and Networking (for in-person attendees)
9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.: Program

Who Should Attend:
Firm Principals + Leadership
Business Development + Sales Staff
Marketing Director + Manager
Marketing + Proposal Coordinators
Creative Services + Graphic Designers
Copy Writers + Content Marketers

Learning Objectives:
1. Applying CRM implementation structure to small, midsize, and large firm environments
2. Understanding the best role of marketing in CRM implementation and integration
3. Adopting sustainable training and CRM management across the firm

About the Speakers

Kelsey Ashburn - Marketing Project Manager at ISG
Kelsey Ashburn is the Marketing Project Manager and CRM Firm Administrator at ISG, a multi-disciplinary architecture, engineering, environmental, and planning firm with over 600 employee owners. She played a critical role in the firm's CRM implementation, starting research and development in 2021 and launching in 2023. Kelsey led the system's configuration and customization,  firmwide implementation strategy, forms and workflow management, and data entry; also creating internal resources, user trainings, and more. She is responsible for ensuring that CRM functions align with ISG's operations, while driving adoption through clear and consistent communication on system updates, process adjustments, and best practices.

Catie Wheeler - Marketing & Business Development Director at BKBM Engineers
Catie Wheeler is the Marketing & Business Development Director at BKBM Engineers, a relationship-driven civil and structural engineering firm based in Minneapolis. With nearly two decades of experience in the AEC industry, Catie is dedicated to building partnerships, driving growth,  and leading change. She bridges technical expertise with practical strategies, empowering teams to deliver results that matter.  Known for her vision, adaptability, and collaborative leadership, Catie is passionate about guiding firms through technology integrations like CRM systems. She regularly shares actionable insights on leveraging technology for client engagement, efficient workflows, and long-term business development success.

Please note that the virtual login information will be sent to registrants the day before the event. In addition, this program will be recorded. The program recording and any presenter material will be shared with registrants after the event. If you have any registration questions, please reach out to [email protected].

By registering for this SMPS-TC event, you give your permission for SMPS-TC to use any photographs or videos taken at the event on its website, social media, or in promotional materials without compensation. You also understand that SMPS-TC owns all photographs and videos taken at the event.