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Optional AEC THRIVE pre-conference session

AEC Executive Workshop: The CEO’s Guide to Identifying and
Activating Your Next Generation of Leaders

October 21, 2026

You know you need a leadership program at your firm, but where to start? A generic "one-size-fits-none" kit? Reading a dozen leadership books and starting with a blank screen? Here's a better idea: Learn, in just one day, how to design, install, and manage an AEC-specific leadership development program that checks all the boxes and locks in your most valuable and productive employees for the long haul.

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What if you could identify emerging leaders early and intentionally cultivate them to energize teams, elevate performance, and bring out the best in those around them? Come to AEC THRIVE a day early and get a roadmap for doing just that!

Most AEC firms have high performers with the potential to inspire teams, elevate project performance, and deepen client relationships. Yet, too often, they are promoted into management without the guidance, skills, or confidence they need to truly lead. The result? They struggle to motivate others, navigate difficult conversations, or lead former peers. 

Today’s emerging workforce increasingly responds best to leaders who develop people rather than simply direct them. In fact, research consistently shows that coaching is the leadership style younger generations value most. Leaders who know how to ask the right questions, give constructive feedback, and help employees grow will be far more effective than those who rely solely on authority or technical expertise.
 
The firms that thrive identify and develop leaders who can coach, motivate, and activate talent already hired. 
 
AEC Executive Workshop: The CEO’s Guide to Identifying and Activating Your Firm’s Next Generation of Leaders
 
In this one-day deep-dive pre-conference workshop, you’ll explore how leading AEC firms are building leadership development programs that transform strong contributors into impactful leaders.

Drawing on PSMJ’s latest research and insights from the most successful leadership development programs in the industry, we walk you through a practical framework for cultivating leaders who motivate teams, improve project outcomes, and strengthen firm culture — even if their teams remain largely unchanged.

Led by Jonathan Wilson — one of PSMJ’s experts on developing AEC leaders — this workshop focuses on the real-world leadership challenges that emerging leaders face every day. Jonathan has coached thousands of AEC professionals on how to inspire teams, navigate tough situations, and move from “technical expert” to trusted leader.
 
Learn how to create a leadership development approach that builds leadership capability where it matters most: inside your existing teams and leave with a clear blueprint for identifying high-potential leaders, developing the skills that matter most in AEC environments, and building a leadership culture that drives engagement, accountability, and performance.

You learn:

  • How to identify leadership potential inside your firm — and distinguish between strong performers and future leaders.

  • Why coaching has become the most effective leadership style for younger generations, and how to equip your leaders with practical coaching skills that develop talent and drive engagement.

  • How to lead effectively when your team isn’t changing, including developing the people you already have and elevating overall team performance.

  • How to prepare new leaders to manage former peers, build trust, and establish credibility in their new role.

  • How to help your leaders get over Impostor Syndrome, and get on with the work at hand.

  • Practical approaches for handling difficult conversations, giving constructive feedback, and addressing performance challenges early.

  • How to help emerging leaders shift from “technical problem solver” to “people developer.”

  • How to structure a leadership development program that is scalable, relevant to AEC firms, and aligned with your culture and growth strategy.

  • How leadership development connects to ownership succession, ensuring your firm is cultivating future leaders and future owners at the same time.

  • How to measure the impact of your leadership development efforts, ensuring your investment translates into stronger engagement, better project outcomes, and improved retention.

Unless you are completely sure your firm has a strong pipeline of leaders ready to motivate teams and carry your culture forward, don’t miss this AEC THRIVE pre-conference workshop. You gain the tools and insights to identify, develop, and activate the leadership potential already inside your firm — and help your leaders get the best possible performance from the teams they already have.

A/E/C TalentMAX Reviews

Melissa Cruise, SPHR

VP, Human Resources, HP Engineering

“Best conference I’ve ever attended. If you are in the A/E/C space, you NEED to attend this. PSMJ did not disappoint.”

Shawna Witt, SHRM-SCP

HR Director, Banner Associates

“This was an amazing conference! Connecting and learning with others that share the same passion is invaluable.”

Cindy Lassiter

HR Manager, Wildlands Engineering

"Attended my first PSMJ event this week-and boy was it worth it! Everything was spot on. I even had a hard time selecting which break outs to attend because they were all relevant. So much information and insights to bring back to our leadership team. Thanks to the event organizers for everything!"

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AEC THRIVE Venue

AEC THRIVE is coming to Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia, offering luxury comfort, exciting evening opportunities, and sophisticated amenities. 

Learn More