Speakers

Grant Farnsworth

President, The Farnsworth Group

The Farnsworth Group conducts custom research exclusively for the building products, home improvement and lawn & ranch industries by providing strategic insights that help organizations better understand their customer, product, brand, and overall market. For over 20 years, Grant has consulted on qualitative and quantitative research for a variety of manufacturers, retailers, and associations ranging from Fortune 100 firms to start-ups. Grant continues to gain industry knowledge through efforts with organizations like Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing and the Home Improvement Research Institute. As a long time drummer, Grant still practices music. His creativity is an often-utilized resource in the company and with clients.

Ryan Kelly

Co-founder, KHB Construction Inc.

Meet Ryan Kelly, co-founder of KHB Construction Inc. Ryan's unwavering dedication to client experience, driven by a genuine commitment to technology, process, and a deep passion for crafting unique environments, has positioned KHB as a reputable leader in the design-build remodeling industry.

In a remarkable journey Ryan, along with his business partner Robert Runyan, steered KHB to mid-seven figures in its very first year of operation. Their unwavering dedication to quality, client experience, and the strategic use of marketing has fueled this remarkable growth, making them trusted partners for clients seeking top-tier remodeling services in California.

Travis Pierce

Territory Manager, Wellborn

Residing in Maineville, Ohio, I bring a wealth of experience in the sales realm. A Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Cincinnati laid the foundation for my journey. Beginning at Keidel Supply right after college, a distinguished Plumbing Supply company specializing in kitchen cabinets and appliances, I swiftly gained a foothold in the industry.

My career path took me to various corners of the United States. Three enriching years at Maytag saw me thriving in Territory Sales across Texas and California. I then joined the esteemed KitchenAid division of Whirlpool, contributing my expertise in sales both in Michigan and back in Cincinnati, leaving a mark in every location.

A decade-long chapter at Aristokraft showcased my enduring commitment to sales, while a subsequent 2 1/2-year role at Merillat saw me excelling not only in sales but also in managerial capacities.

The pinnacle of my journey has been my incredible 21 1/2-year journey at Wellborn, where my sales acumen truly flourished. This condensed bio encapsulates a career defined by dedication, expertise, and significant contributions to the sales industry.

Alan Rhode

Founder & CEO, Modern Wealth

Alan Rhode has over a decade of expertise within financial planning and wealth management for small businesses. He has guided countless individuals to their financial goals during his time at firms such as Merrill Lynch, Morgan Stanley, and Goldman Sachs. Alan's insights have been shared and recognized in The New York Times, MarketWatch, MSN, and Fox News.

Alan is a proud Penn State University graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance. He’s also completed the CFP education from the American College of Financial Services and received his CEPA credential through the Exit Planning Institute.

Logan Shinholser

President, Contractor Growth Network

Logan Shinholser is the founder of Contractor Growth Network, an award-winning agency specializing in helping residential contractors grow their businesses through tailored marketing strategies. Recognized on the Inc. 5000 list, Logan channels his upbringing in a contractor household to deliver impactful results, turning qualified leads into millions in revenue for his clients.

David Bryan

Owner, Blackdog Builders

David Bryan is the president and co-founder of award-winning Blackdog Design/Build/Remodel. His introduction to remodeling started by swinging a hammer on Martha’s Vineyard in the summers, but grew into a dream to own and run a construction company. He's been deeply embedded in the development of his company's teams, systems, and processes. Blackdog now has 65 team members and two locations.

Allison Iantosca

Owner, F.H. Perry Builder

In 2008 Allison purchased F.H. Perry Builder from her father and has proudly carried on the tradition of success through strength—strength of character, knowledge, integrity, building well and strength of relationships. She is passionately involved in a range of Boston and Metro West Charities and non-profits and has been recognized for her leadership and business acumen by Boston Future Leaders, Banker and Tradesman, the Builders and Remodelers Association of Greater Boston and others.

Caroline Broderick

Managing Editor, Pro Remodeler

Caroline Broderick is the managing editor for Pro Remodeler. Most recently, she served as the associate editor for PR's sister publications, Pro Builder, Custom Builder, and PRODUCTS where she covered design, building products, trends, and more in the residential construction industry. Additionally, Caroline co-hosts Pro Remodeler and Pro Builder's Women in Residential Construction podcast.

Erika Mosse

Director of Content, Pro Remodeler

Erika is the Director of Content for Pro Remodeler. Mosse has more than 20 years of experience as a speaker, journalist, and advocate for small businesses. She has been the recipient of numerous honors, including nine Jesse H. Neal awards, widely considered the Pulitzer Prize of business media. Prior to joining Pro Remodeler, Mosse was editorial director for Pool & Spa News, a media brand serving the swimming pool construction market. She passionately believes in the importance of bringing more women, especially women leaders, into the residential construction industry and is inspired by her work toward that goal.

Tony Mancini

Executive Vice President, SGC Horizon

Tony is an enthusiastic, innovative industry leader in the construction industry. His 30 year career has spanned senior leadership roles in leading national publishers including Reed Construction Media and McGraw-Hill Companies. Tony works closely with clients across the construction industry to create new ideas that drive brand and product awareness across all media platforms. He is committed to exploring customized, impactful campaigns that work in today's market.

Othy Morris

Digital Marketing Manager, Wellborn Cabinet

Othy Morris joined Wellborn Cabinet, Inc. in 2021 and began using his experience to ramp up Wellborn Cabinet's digital presence. Since joining Wellborn Cabinet, the company has seen the launch of a new, user-friendly, UX-first website, and conversion rates from the company’s social media, SEO, and paid search efforts have doubled.

Othy entered the digital marketing field in 2012 managing websites and continued to improve and grow his knowledge in social media marketing, SEO, and paid search as his career developed. While the tactics of digital marketing change frequently, Othy is a firm believer that the core principle will always be that as long as you create excellent content for the humans who visit your site, superb technical SEO for the robots, and calls-to-action that don't feel like spam, you can get your slice of the SERP (Search Engine Results Page).

Tara Dawn

Co-Owner, Opal Enterprises Windows & Siding

Tara Dawn is co-owner/marketing manager Opal Enterprises Windows-Siding-Doors and Patio Covers. Tara is a founding member of this amazing marketing and sales organization that happens to focus on improving residential homes. Tara oversees all customer experiences that customers have from the time they call the office for an appointment to project completion and beyond to any warranty requests. As the marketing manager, Tara is responsible for the look, feel and reputation of Opal Enterprises both off and online. We have 2 locations in the Chicago market, both locations have plans for growth from the combined 10 million that is currently being achieved. Tara is excited to join the stellar group that will attend the Pinnacle Experience in Philadelphia!

Jay Cipriani

Founder, Cipriani Remodeling Solutions

Jay founded Cipriani Remodeling Solutions in 1978. His father was also a contractor and this inspired Jay to enter the renovation business. Cipriani Remodeling Solutions has completed over 3,000 renovation projects throughout South Jersey and proudly continues to serve the community to this day.

Jay has been a speaker at numerous civic and professional organizations. He often lectures on what to do and what to avoid when undertaking a home improvement project. Jay has been featured on home improvement shows such as the Discovery Channel's “Gimme Shelter” and “Rescue My Renovation” on the DIY Network. He has also written articles for Builder/Architect, a monthly trade magazine. And his company has won numerous awards for excellence in home remodeling. Jay strives to enhance his professional skills through industry programs. He has made a lifetime commitment to becoming a better leader, citizen, and individual.

Jay lives in Sewell with his wife Cindy. The couple devotes a great deal of time to helping others.

Michael Anschel

President, OA Design+Build

Michael, a nationally recognized expert on resilient design, remodeling, and building, writes, trains, and speaks for various publications and events around the world. His building assemblies have been published in numerous publications including the US Department of Energy. He is the owner of OA Design+Build+Architecture, an award-winning nationally celebrated design-build and architecture firm (with 29 years in business), and CEO of Verified Green Inc. which consults with Local Government, product manufacturers, suppliers, builders, and architects on Green building. Michael led the effort to develop MN GreenStar and is past president of the national GreenStar Alliance. He also teaches Green Building at Boston Architectural College.

Born in Minnesota, he attended Capital Normal University (Beijing) and the University of Minnesota. He has had the honor of presenting at Harvard's Center for Joint Housing Studies, and The United Negro College Fund. He helped develop the city of St. Paul's sustainability building policy and re-wrote Minneapolis’s yard ordinance. Named #25 in Metro Magazine's 100 reasons to love the Twin Cities and called “one of the nation’s most outspoken green building advocates” by MN Business, Michael successfully straddles the building, design, and green worlds by engineering profitability into sustainability.

David Cockburn

Head of Growth Strategy, Nimble Thinkers

David Cockburn is a highly experienced and accomplished leader in the realm of digital transformations. With over 20 years of industry expertise, he has amassed a wealth of knowledge and insights that have propelled him to the forefront of the field. Throughout his career, David has demonstrated his ability to adapt and thrive in dynamic business environments, making him a sought-after strategist and advisor.

One of David's notable achievements includes his involvement in over 40 M&A digital transitions. These transitions require a deep understanding of both the business and technological aspects, as well as strong leadership skills to navigate complex integration processes successfully. David's track record in this area speaks to his exceptional ability to drive strategic initiatives and guide organizations through transformative change.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, David has been consistently acknowledged and awarded as an industry innovator. His deft analytical skills, coupled with his exceptional problem-solving abilities, have set him apart as a thought leader in the digital transformation space.

Mike Karlsrud

President, CEO, MA Peterson

An engaging and visionary CEO/President with a strong track record of building and growing profitable organizations for entrepreneurial start-ups and established Fortune 100 brands. Proven ability to envision the big picture and execute strategic initiatives, passionate about leading with compassion where I develop, inspire, and manage dynamic teams.

As President of MA Peterson, I am leading a elite home remodeling company and a high-end mill work manufacturing company to transformation and growth. Previously, I was the 52nd employee at Renewal by Anderson, where we ground-floored the business from concept to a national franchise. In addition, I created a sales call center serving global Fortune 100 companies and sold it successfully in 2019.

Angela O'Neill

Wellborn

Angela Wellborn O’Neill graduated from Auburn University with a degree in Marketing. She put that degree to good use by starting the Marketing Department at Wellborn Cabinet, Inc where she has served as the Director for almost 40 years and serves on the Board of Directors. She’s been a part of various associations like the NKBA. She also has served on the Clay County Christian Academy school board and currently serves as part of the board of the Save-a-Life in Anniston, Alabama. She has four children and two grandchildren.

Chris Forshay

Head of Home Improvement, Upgrade, Inc.

Chris Forshay is the head of Upgrade Home Improvement and is passionate about making financing easy for contractors and their customers. With a strong background in financing technology, his mission is to help customers make smart financial decisions while getting the most out of life with options that are responsible and affordable. Come check out Upgrade Home Improvement at our booth!

Vince Lowe

SVP, General Manager, Home Specialty and Flooring, Synchrony

Vince is an incredibly experienced leader with over 25 years of retail and sales leadership.

Currently, Vince is Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Home Specialty & Flooring businesses for Home & Auto. Primary responsibilities include focusing on supporting the growth ambitions of over 30,000 Home Improvement and Flooring partners throughout the United States.

Prior to his current role, Vince was the Senior Vice President, Merchant Experience and Salesforce Effectiveness for Synchrony. Primary responsibilities included creating frictionless experiences for Synchrony's small and medium businesses across multiple business platforms.

Vince attended Purdue University and University of Texas, with a dual major in Philosophy and Economics.

Vince is married and has a family of 4 children. He currently resides in Frisco, TX.

Michael Valente

Founder & CEO, Renovation Sells

Michael Valente, Renovation Sells Founder & CEO, has an infectious entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for transforming homes. As a licensed general contractor and real estate agent with over 1,000 construction projects under his belt, Mike brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table.

Driven by a desire to be his own boss and make a meaningful impact on communities everywhere, Mike dove into construction, renovating and flipping homes for both himself and for clients. This journey led him to discover a real problem faced by realtors - outdated listings that hindered quick sales.

Recognizing that the demand for a simple presale renovation solution extended far beyond Chicago, Mike and his co-founder and wife, Amanda, embarked on an ambitious journey. They strategically expanded the business through franchising, driven by a shared goal of bringing hassle-free renovations to every community across the country.

Under his leadership, Renovation Sells has grown to nearly 50 locations. In just five years, the company has updated thousands of homes and is on track to be the first presale home renovation company to hit $100M in revenue.

With his skill for fostering deep, meaningful relationships, Mike plays a pivotal role as both an industry leader and a mentor. His dedication, expertise, and genuine care have been the driving force behind the company's success and bright future ahead.

Lane Boland

COO, CQC Home

Chief Operating Officer of CQC Home - a 16 million dollar design-build remodeler. With his partner and founder of CQC - Ken Combs, invented the PD/PM System to reduce profit slippage from estimate to actual from -8% to +1% and improved CQC from 2% net on 8 million in sales to 11% net on 16 million in sales in 6 months.

Chris Lavoie

Vice President, Sales Division, Reborn Home Solutions

Chris Lavoie has been the VP of Sales at Reborn Cabinets since 2010. Chris has helped to oversee exceptional growth in the company, which had 14 sales people in a single location producing $8 million in revenue when he started, and today has over 150 sales people in five states producing $160 million in revenue.

Chad Bartholomew

Business Relationship Manager, Wells Fargo

Chad has been helping businesses in the Wells Fargo Home Projects sector for ten years. In his role as Business Relationship Manager, he teaches businessowners how to grow their sales as well as increase their average ticket through the Home Projects Financing Program. Chad has been proud to call Wells Fargo home for 13+ years, starting in Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, then moving to the Home Projects Team. When not helping businesses like yours thrive, Chad can be found enjoying mountain biking, running, boating, and going to local festivals.

Ryan T. Spar

Chief Operating Officer, NEWPRO Home Solutions

Ryan Spar has over 20 years in the home improvement industry from driving sales divisions and teams to operations and leadership. Ryan is responsible for the day-to-day operations at NEWPRO ensuring alignment with all the systems, processes and strategies to deliver an exceptional homeowner experience. Supportive of a people-centric culture, Ryan has played a significant role in attracting top talent to support NEWPRO growth and expansion into multiple markets with a diverse offering of home improvement solutions. Ryan holds many sales, leadership, manufacturer and training certifications, and is Predictive Index certified. Ryan earned a BA in Business Management from Coastal Carolina University.

In Ryan's free time, he is busy navigating his three young children's sports schedules or enjoying authentic Italian dishes in Boston's North End!

Tucker Worsham

VP, Sales Management, Synchrony

Tucker has been with Synchrony for 24 years is a variety of sales and sales operations roles.

Currently, Tucker is Vice President and Sales Leader for the Home Specialty portfolio, which includes home improvement and HVAC. He is responsbility for sales execution and strategy for over 30K dealers.

Prior to his current role, Tucker was Vice President, Sales Operations for Home Specialty.

Tucker holds a BS in Civil Engineering from Virginia Military Institute and a MBA from the College of William & Mary.

Tucker is married and has 3 children and 1 grandchild. He lives in St Paul, MN.

Gary A. Cohen

Vice President, Certified Contractors Network

Gary Cohen is Vice President of Certified Contractors Network and leads the day-to-day operations of the company. He is a seasoned business professional with deep multidisciplinary experience working across numerous sectors in the home improvement industry over the past 40 years. Gary has also been an executive and leadership coach since 2006 and is certified in 9 psychometric assessments, holds the CPC credential with the International Coach Academy, the PCC credential with the International Coach Federation, and one of 40 people globally to hold the ACP credential from Assessments 24x7.

Gary was a clinical professor of business for 11 years at the University of Maryland and served as Associate Dean of the Business School for 4 years. Gary has been published in The Hill, Investor’s Business Daily, Morning Consult, USA Today, The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and other local publications. He has also appeared as a commentator on several global news networks and local television. Gary holds an undergraduate accounting degree and an MBA with concentrations in Marketing and International Business.

As a past corporate executive, Gary served as President and CEO of two international distribution firms in the DIY sector and CMO/CRO of a consumer products firm serving the home improvement industry.

Gary resides in Jupiter, FL with his wife and loves to spend time with his children and grandchildren. He and his wife love to travel and have been to 62 countries.

Ryan Shutt

CEO, Southwest Exteriors

With over 15 years of leadership in the home services sector, Ryan has orchestrated a diverse range of marketing campaigns encompassing traditional mediums like Print, Radio, and TV, as well as cutting-edge online strategies with a strong emphasis on content creation. Ryan's core competence lies in elevating lead volumes while concurrently reducing expenses, achieved without resorting to lead aggregators, canvassing, or shows & events. In February 2021, Ryan introduced the "They Ask You Answer" marketing methodology, a novel approach centered on preemptively addressing homeowner inquiries prior to sales appointments. In 2023, Ryan assumed the CEO role at Southwest Exteriors, diligently steering the company toward becoming a prominent household name within the San Antonio region.

Jeremy Riggall

General Manager, Harth Builders

Jeremy Riggall is the General Manager of Harth Builders, the premier Design-Build company serving the Great Philadelphia area. He has over 20 years of experience of management within the construction industry, and he has a proven track record of success and growth. Based out of Spring House, PA, Harth Builder's offerings include design services, remodeling, a small work/services division, and custom homes. Graduating from Grove City College with a degree in Business Management, Jeremy spent four years as a Project Manager in a Kitchen/Bath company prior to joining Harth Builders in 2008. Jeremy has grown his responsibility as the company has grown, focusing on process improvement, company culture and client experience along the way. Jeremy oversees day-to-day operations and a leadership team, builds the organization, sets strategy and develops new leaders and managers. Time outside of work is spent with his wife and four children.

Matt Saunders

Vice President, Building Products
John Burns Real Estate Consulting

Matt leads analysis on some of the toughest building product topics, including product-level insights for our forecasts.

Prior to joining John Burns Real Estate Consulting, Matt worked as the Senior Manager Economic and Market Analytics for Fortune Brands Home and Security. There he led econometric forecasting and research which drove the market outlook process. Most recently he was the Senior Manager Economic Planning for TTX Company where he led modeling and forecasts of North American intermodal rail loadings and provided updates to stakeholders on economic conditions.

Matt has a BA (Honors) in Economics and a MA in Economics and Finance from the University of Alberta. He is a CFA® charterholder, a Certified Business Economist® (CBE)  and has a Graduate Certificate (with distinction) from the Harvard Business Analytics Program.

In his free time, Matt enjoys watching and playing basketball.

Vince Papale

Former Philadelphia Eagles Team Captain

In 1976 Vince Papale was in his 6th year of teaching at his alma mater, Interboro High School while was working on his master's degree in counseling and also coaching football and track. As a 10 year season ticket holder for his beloved Philadelphia Eagles Vince had a dream . . . to be an Eagle. At the same time the USA was celebrating its bi-centennial birthday. 1976 was a time when Philadelphia fans were buried in 11 years of defeat, when Americans were battling the lingering effects of Watergate, the Vietnam War, and a sweeping energy crisis. Ordinary people appeared badly in need of a champion from their ranks, and this local schoolteacher/coach answered their call.

The Philadelphia Eagles had hired a passionate and idealistic rookie Head Coach, Dick Vermeil, who boldly announced that he wanted to shake up his new team and publicized that he was going to conduct an open tryout for all comers. Ignoring all of the nay sayers and doubters Vince not only attended the try out but he was offered a contract on the spot and he got the sweet and ultimate last laugh by making the team.

Re-inventing himself from a 30 year old schoolteacher, who did not play football in college, to an NFL star, Vince Papale defied the million to one odds against him. Not only did he make the team but he was voted by his teammates Captain of the Special Teams and most recently was selected by the fans as the best Special Teamer in the Eagles 75-year history.

He has received numerous awards around the country for his charitable contributions and efforts including the coveted Vince Lombardi Award for Courage for overcoming his bout with colon cancer. He lends his support to too many charitable organizations to mention but Vince is very proud to note he has had the American Flag flown in his honor over the United States Capitol and by the troops in Iraq & Afghanistan, whom he considers his heroes!

He is married to the former Janet Cantwell who was on the USA World Gymnastics team. They have two children, Gabriella and Vincent. Vince is the subject of the blockbuster Disney movie, Invincible, which topped the charts for 2 straight weeks after its release in 2006.

Now, in today’s fragile economic times, he continues to respond to the need for a motivating hero who knows what it's like to battle and overcome adversity. He is regarded as one of the top motivational speakers. As the ultimate underdog, Vince continues to thrill audiences with his energy, passion and humor.

Dave King

Executive Director, Home Improvement Research Institute (HIRI)

Dave has spent the past 25 years in the strategy, research and advanced analytics space. The last ten years has been focused entirely in the home improvement space. Prior roles include Chief Statistician, Adjunct Professor, Board Member and Research Manager. Dave's introduction to the Home Improvement Research Institute (HIRI) was in 2017. He quickly became a member, then served on HIRI's Board of Directors before becoming HIRI's Executive Director.

Jef Forward

President, Forward Design Build Remodel

Jef Forward is the President & Creative Director at Forward Design Build Remodel, based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Forward Design Build specializes in providing unique design solutions and rewarding customer experiences. Jef started Forward Design Build Remodel over 25 years ago with a passion to help people live better in their homes. Jef earned his masters degree in Architecture from the University of Michigan. Jef's role at Forward is to foster a positive and collaborative work environment and be a strong leader and visionary.

Andrew J. Burbank

Senior Relationship Manager, Wells Fargo

Andrew has been helping businesses in the Wells Fargo home projects sector for eight years. In his role as Business Relationship Manager, he teaches businessowners how to grow their sales as well as increase their average ticket through the Home Projects financing program.

Andrew has been proud to call Wells Fargo home for 16+ years, starting in customer service on the retail side, then moving to outbound sales. He then held an Inside Sales Rep position on the retail side and moved to his current position on the Home Projects team.

When not helping businesses like yours thrive, Andrew can be found in the great outdoors, fishing, hunting, or coaching his kids in sports.

Jonathan Weinberg

Founder, Builder Prime

Jonathan is the Founder and CEO of Builder Prime, the leading all-in-one CRM solution specifically built for the home improvement industry. With a background in Computer Science and Business, he developed a deep passion for the home improvement industry starting in 2011 through his personal consumer experience. Having subsequently worked as an office and production manager for a Window & Door company while also developing the software at the same time, he gained valuable insights and an even deeper appreciation for the industry. Jonathan's true enthusiasm lies in scalable software solutions that enhance business efficiency, and has applied this enthusiasm in a way that is propelling home improvement businesses across North America to new heights.

Carlos Martín, PhD

Project Director, Remodeling Futures

Carlos Martín is Project Director of the Remodeling Futures Program, and has over 25 years of experience researching housing technology and the physical quality of existing homes. Dr. Martín's research on green housing, disaster mitigation and recovery, substandard housing, construction innovation, and the construction workforce connects the bricks-and-mortar of existing housing to its social outcomes. Carlos came to the Center from the Urban Institute, where he was a senior fellow. Previously, he was an assistant staff vice president for construction codes and standards at the National Association of Home Builders, SRP professor for energy and the environment at Arizona State University, and coordinator for the US Department of Housing and Urban Development's Partnership for Advancing Technology in Housing. Carlos is currently serving as a David M. Rubenstein Fellow at the Brookings Institution's Metropolitan Policy Program and also serves on several National Academy of Science committees. He has previously served on advisory boards for HUD, EPA, and FEMA. Carlos received his BSAD in architecture from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and his MEng and PhD degrees in civil and environmental engineering from Stanford University.

Keynote: Brian Gottlieb

Founder, Tundraland Home Improvements

Founder, Renewal by Andersen of Greater Wisconsin

In 2009, Brian Gottlieb founded Tundraland Home Improvements on a plastic folding table with just $3000. Since that time, he's founded Jacuzzi Bath Remodel of Arizona and Renewal by Andersen of Greater Wisconsin. In 2021, Jacuzzi Corporation acquired his Arizona business and in 2022, Leaf Home Enhancements acquired Tundraland. In the fall of 2022, his Renewal business in Wisconsin was acquired by his executive leadership team. The three businesses combined, with close to 600 employees, and generated more than $150,000,000 in revenue.

Brian is widely recognized for his inspirational leadership style which systematically unleashes the full potential in others, and through that process, creates an environment where both business and people become limitless. He scaled his businesses by aligning people around the notion that they aren't a construction company or a sales and marketing company; they are a training and development company that happens to be in home improvements. By obsessing on developing people, his businesses have rightfully earned the reputation of being some of the best run home improvement companies in the industry today.

Brian is a Guinness World Record Holder, an alumnus of Harvard Business School, and is currently writing a business book on culture, leadership, and people development.

Cameron Root

President, High Performance Homes

Cameron is the President of High Performance Homes and designer of the High Performance Window.

As president, Cameron is the head of the company, working between the executive team and the department managers, providing strong leadership during the growth and expansion of HPH to 15 locations across three states, and projected revenue of $75 million in 2023.

Cameron specializes in developing large sales organizations and overseeing team development. To meet the demands of a growing business, Cameron has been pressed to develop creative solutions over the last twelve years. Because of this, HPH has continued to reach the corporate goal of continual growth every year.

Cameron is well known for his sales and marketing coaching and looks forward to sharing his advice at the upcoming Pinnacle Experience.

Matt Rodio

Head of Customer Success, Rillavoice

Matthew Rodio is the Head of Customer Success at Rillavoice, where he nurtures Rilla's customer relationships, works with >200 customers to deliver outstanding ROI, and is responsible for maintaining world-class revenue retention metrics. He brings combined expertise in customer success and SaaS products from a career that spans NYC's hottest startups. In his free time you can find him walking his dog, cooking a gourmet meal, or hopping on another impromptu call with a customer.

Sebastian Jimenez Bienen

Co-Founder & CEO, Rillavoice

Sebastian is the founder and CEO of Rillavoice. The leading speech analytics software in the home improvement industry. He will talk about the key insights they found about how top performers talk in sales appointments. After running the Rillavoice AI on over $500,000 sales conversations. Sebastian has been featured on Techcrunch, the Wealthy Contractor Podcast, and was selected into the Forbes Next 1000.

Jay Shah

Director of Marketing, Dreamstyle Remodeling

Jay Shah received his Master's in Business Admin from UNM in 2018 and has been with Dreamstyle Remodeling for more than 8 years, currently as their Director of Marketing. He is accountable for monthly marketing spend and its ROI, forecasting a 3- month outlook for all company branches, negotiating rates/buys, implementing call center and recruiting technology/programs, developing & launching new initiatives, and more. Throughout his career, Jay has gained national industry recognition and most recently spoke at Professional Remodeler Magazine's Extreme Lead Gen Summit in November 2021.

In addition to managing Dreamstyle's direct-response marketing strategy, Jay spends a considerable amount of his time volunteering with various local non-profits. He is the Vice President of Young Professionals of Albuquerque (YPA), a Founding Board Member for the Asian Business Collaborative (ABC), a Board Member on the UNM Anderson Alumni Council (AAC), and published 'Financial Literacy for Immigrants & Refugees', a book co-authored and edited with a group of professionals for the Refugee and Immigrant Well-being Project.

In February 2022, Jay was featured in Albuquerque Business First's 'New Mexicans to Know' Piece as a local leader. He was also named a Forty Under 40 Winner of 2022 by Pro Remodeler, a nationally distributed publication for the professional remodeling industry. In December 2022, Jay was the keynote speaker at UNM Anderson's Fall 2022 graduation ceremony at The Pit.

www.jaydshah.com

Wade Wynn

VP, Sales, GreenSky, A Goldman Sachs Company

Wade Wynn, sales and technology expert, heads-up the outside sales team for GreenSky, A Goldman Sachs Company, leading acquisition objectives for the fast-rising fintech company. He has experience launching financing programs across a wide range of dealers, from sole proprietors to private equity firms and national brands. Having both inside and outsides sales leadership experience, he brought to GreenSky, 15 years of experience as a Dell Technologies sales leader, where he grew and managed teams, directed the manager candidate program, and introduced a new business sales development division, while consulting with businesses to guide them in technology utilization to achieve growth objectives.

A.J. Ballantine

Owner, Cornerstone Remodeling

A.J is a seasoned entrepreneur with 10+ years of experience as the founder and CEO of Cornerstone Remodeling. As a skilled leader, A.J. has successfully built a thriving business over the years, with a strong emphasis on culture, growth and technology. Recently, A.J. has leveraged his extensive knowledge of the home improvement business to launch a new venture called RENDR—a remote engagement solution that helps contractors work less by streamlining the sales process and providing innovative solutions to improve their overall performance. Driven by the belief that technology can transform the home improvement industry, A.J. is committed to helping contractors achieve their full potential by leveraging digital tools and cutting-edge techniques.

Wesley Crocket

General Manager, Mahogany Builders

Wesley Crocket is the Co-Owner and General Manager of Mahogany Builders, a Chicago-based design+build firm with 20 employees. Mahogany Builders is a market leader, completing 75 high-end kitchens, bathrooms, and full home remodels a year. Wes was recently recognized in Pro Remodeler's 2023 40 Under 40 list. Wes earned his Bachelor's from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale and holds his Master's in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. As Mahogany Builders' General Manager he is responsible for selecting, deploying and maintaining the technology his company uses on a daily basis. Wes originally ran Mahogany Builders using a combination of Excel and Quickbooks. Since then, he's led Mahogany through the desert that has traditionally been the construction technology industry, including the development of Mahogany's own proprietary construction management platform.

Alena Brooks Blasio

President, B.A. Worthing

President of B.A. Worthing, Inc., a San Diego based Family Owned and operated Design-Build Construction Company, which has been in business since 1979. Our company is built on a legacy of honesty, transparency, and quality in a collaborative design and construction process.

In addition to being a California Licensed General Contractor, Alena is also an NCIDQ Certified Interior Designer, which brings a whole new level of design possibility and attention to detail to each of her projects. A passion for developing relationships with her clients allows her to understand her clients’ goals, bringing their design aesthetic and dreams for their homes to life.

Shane Duff

Director of Market Development, Alair Homes

Duff joined Alair in 2016, and since then has expanded the company's footprint from 52 locations to more than 100. In addition to new market expansion, he works with Alair partners across the US and Canada to develop growth strategies that mitigate risk, increase freedom for the owners, and achieve sustainable scalability. Since joining Alair, Shane has provided advisory sessions to over 700 companies across the industry, both inside and outside of the Alair group.

Dave King

Executive Director, Home Improvement Research Institute

King has spent the past two decades in the strategy, research, and advanced analytics space. Nine of those years were focused directly in home improvement as VP of Strategy, Research & Analytics for EnerBank USA, a home improvement lender. Prior roles include Chief Statistician, Adjunct Professor, Board Member and Research Manager. King began serving as a HIRI board member in 2020 after he attended its annual Home Improvement Insights Summit and saw the strong impact that HIRI had across the industry. Today, as Executive Director, his primary goal is to grow the value that HIRI delivers to members through providing actionable and timely data-driven insights. He hopes to do this through increasing the quantity and quality of HIRI’s research and better leveraging the expertise that HIRI members bring to the table.

Dave Pollard

Architect, Co-Founder, Liv Companies (LivCo)

Dave Pollard, AIA LEED AP is an Architect, Builder, and Co-founder of Liv Companies; a full service residential design-build company in the Chicago suburbs. Dave has worked for several high profile Chicago firms such as Goettsch Partners, and David Hovey’s Architect-led development company, Optima Inc, honing his skills to better understand how to make the process of design more efficient, and therefore more accessible. With Dave as the Design lead, LivCo has won numerous awards including Thirtty Chicago Remodeling Excellence Awards, Five regional remodeling excellence awards, a National Remodeling Excellence Award in 2021, Home of the Year Award, Contractor of the Year Award, Six consecutive years Houzz Best in Service, Remodeling Big50, and in 2018, Dave was on ProRemodelers 40 under 40 list. Dave is considered a thought leader in the industry, and has been published in the Journal of Light Construction, Remodeling Magazine, and ProRemodeler.

Tricia Lahti Wiitanen

Owner, Refined Homes

After a thriving career in corporate staffing, leadership, and sales, Wiitanen joined her husband to grow Refined homes in 2016. Having grown up with a family business that valued its customers and focused on the needs of the community, she always had ambition to do the same. Wiitanen provides Refined Homes with a systems-level understanding of business management and a true heart for customer service that meshes beautifully with her husband's attention to detail and old-world craftsmanship. While he cares for the projects, she minds the business and the clients. The result is a concierge-level remodeling team that partners with homeowners to produce outstanding projects. Wiitanen is the National Association of the Remodeling Industry's (NARI's) 2020 Minnesota Member of the Year.

Greg Harth

President, Harth Builders

Harth earned his B.S in Civil Engineering at the University of Delaware in 1996, and shortly thereafter moved to Colorado where he entered the heavy civil construction industry. He then joined Peter Kiewit Sons' as a Project Engineer where he worked on a number of high-level construction-focused engineering projects. In 2003, Harth returned home to join Harth Builders as a partner alongside his father, who founded the company. He officially took over ownership of the company in 2008. Over the course of 20 years, Harth increased the company's annual revenue to more than $20 million while maintaining net profitability. He holds Master Certified Remodeler (MCR) and Certified Kitchen and Bath Remodeler (CKBR) certifications by NARI and is also an Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS).

John Dupuy

CEO, Renovo Home Partners

Dupuy has more than 20 years' experience working with private equity firms to build market leaders in consumer and industrial products and services. Renovo was created in November 2021 with the acquisitions of Alure Home Improvement, Dreamstyle Remodeling, and Remodel USA. Since the initial formation, Renovo has expanded its footprint further with the acquisitions of Minnesota Rusco, Newpro Home Solutions, Reborn Home Solutions, and Woodbridge Home Solutions. Renovo is a portfolio company of Audax Private Equity, a leading firm focused on executing buy and build strategies in growth industries like home remodeling. Mr. Dupuy earned a BS in Industrial Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology and an MBA from Southern Methodist University.

Andy Wells

President, Normandy Remodeling

Wells leads one of the largest and most respected residential design-build remodeling businesses in the country. He firmly believes that a solid company culture with a strong customer focus is the driving force in the company’s growth and employee longevity. Wells earned an accounting degree from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and worked as a Certified Public Accountant for six years prior to joining Normandy. This experience has proven to be invaluable in his current endeavors. Wells learned the remodeling business from the ground up; beginning with sales and operations, transitioning into management, and eventually ownership. Under his leadership, Normandy Remodeling has enjoyed tremendous growth, with sales volume increasing five fold over a 10 year period. Over the years, Wells has contributed to numerous articles in a variety of trade publications, and he believes that comparing notes with other businesses, both inside and outside of the industry, helps to uncover business solutions which serve to make Normandy even stronger.

Jesse Kreisman

Vice President, ALCO Products

Jesse is the President of Alco Products, a family owned and operated Maryland based exterior remodeling business. As president, Jesse is responsible for overseeing the growth and expansion of Alco, with a heavy emphasis on its sales and marketing departments. Jesse worked for the company during his time at University of Maryland helping with digital marketing, and after graduating, went to work full time in the sales department, eventually taking over the business with his brother in 2019. Since that time, both the company and sales team has tripled in growth. Jesse has a passion for sales, sales strategy, and sales psychology and looks forward to sharing his insights at the upcoming Pinnacle Experience.

Charlie Gindele

Business Coach, Certified Contractors Network

Author, Lessons Learned: My Journey from Contractor to Businessman

A Philadelphia native, Gindele worked for Alcoa Building Products from 1978 to 1984 in a variety of roles including district sales manager and marketing manager. He moved to California in 1984, and started a roofing and window replacement company which became the Renewal by Andersen affiliate for Orange County in 2005. In 2019, the location was purchased by RBA corporate and Gindele stayed on as the general manager. After more than 50 years in the home improvement business, Gindele is retired, but does part time sales and business coaching. He has written two books: Lessons Learned – My Journey from Contractor to Businessman and Build It To Last – A Memoir. From 2003 to 2018, Gindele was chairman of the Steering Committee of Certified Contractors Network (CCN), a peer-driven industry consulting and training organization. He speaks frequently and on a wide range of topics at CCN meetings and boot camps.

Will Giesey

Managing Partner, Bellweather Design Build

Giesey founded Bellweather in 2002 after owning several other businesses. He earned his MBA from Temple University and studied Fine Art at Lawrence University, with concentrations in design and architecture. Giesey is interested in engineering, energy efficiency, and historical preservation as well as modern, timeless design. His knowledge and team participation in projects involving structural, mechanical, and material applications ensures that all aspects of the project are considered during the sales and design planning phases. Since 2012, he has been the Chairman of the Gloucester City Historical Commission. He is the president of the Philadelphia area chapter for the Professional Remodeling Organization (PRO) and holds multiple certifications.

Josh Harris

VP & Owner, Jerry Harris Remodeling

Harris is a seasoned business executive, licensed attorney, and entrepreneur based in the Hampton Roads/Virginia Beach area. As Vice President of the leading design-build remodeler in the area, Harris is responsible for overseeing several key departments, including marketing, human resources, administration, client outreach, and business development. After graduating from Virginia Tech with his undergraduate degree, Josh pursued his passion for law by attending the University of Richmond School of Law, where he earned his law degree in 2015. As a licensed attorney in Virginia, Josh brings a unique perspective and skill set to his work as a business executive and remodeler. Armed with his legal background and varied experience in business management, remodeling, and marketing, Harris looks forward to sharing his insights at the upcoming Pinnacle Experience.

Tom Kelly

Owner, Neil Kelly Company

Tom Kelly served as president of the country's largest design-build remodeling company, Neil Kelly Company, for 43 years before retiring in 2022. Kelly expanded the company into five fast-growing locations throughout the Northwest, and today, more than 200 employees and thousands of satisfied clients benefit from his innovative vision and deft management style. During his time as president, Neil Kelly Company became a green trailblazer through LEED-certified custom homes and Neil Kelly locations, in addition to achieving B-Corp status. Known for his service to the community, Tom recently chaired the Portland Development Commission (aka Prosper Portland). Among other accolades, Tom was recognized with the Volunteers of America of Oregon DePriest Award and the Fred Case Award for Entrepreneur of the Year.

Ty Melton

Founder, Melton Design Build

Ty Melton founded Melton Design Build in 1993. Today, both Ty and Melton Design Build have become household names when it comes to residential and commercial renovation in Boulder County. He has worked with the city and county of Boulder to develop green building practices and is an active member of Remodeler's Advantage, a national roundtable group where some of the best remodelers in the nation work together throughout the year to share best practices, ideas and insights for running a top-notch remodeling firm.

Mark Richardson

Remodeling Industry Advisor, Author, and Speaker

Mark Richardson is highly regarded as a pioneer in developing standards of professionalism in the remodeling industry. After more than 30 years as President and Co-Chairman of Case Design/Remodeling, one of the leading remodeling organizations in the industry, he is in high demand as a national speaker, advisor, and author.

Mark has formed several Think Tanks and Thought Leader groups to bring together leading contractors and manufacturers in the remodeling industry. He hosted a top-rated consumer radio show called “Our House” for ten years and has appeared as an expert on HGTV. He currently hosts a podcast series titled “Remodeling Mastery” which addresses critical issues and insights to take a remodeling business to the next level.

Mark was inducted into NAHB’s Hall of Fame for his lifetime achievements in making a lasting impression in the construction industry. He is a recipient of NARI’s Harold Hammerman “Spirit of Education” Award, which recognizes excellence in training and education in the remodeling industry. Mark is also a Senior Fellow at Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies where he serves as a senior advisor and liaison between Harvard and the construction industry.

As an authority in the industry, Mark is a featured columnist and contributor for publications such as Professional Remodeler, Professional Builder, Residential Lighting, and Big Grower. His insights have appeared in Money, The Washington Post, Better Homes and Gardens, Fortune, Advantage, and various other media outlets.

As a leading business advisor, Mark has served on boards for Better Business Bureau, NARI, ROXUL, Mosby Building Arts, Advantage Media, Harrell Remodeling, Shine, Surefire, Allen Construction, System Pavers, Dreamstyle, Neal Kelly Companies, and others.

Bobby Vickers

Partner at Doorvana

Bobby Vickers most recently served as the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) at Brennan Enterprises, an exterior remodeling company specializing in window and door replacement in the Dallas-Forth Worth area. He believes a good CMO knows where a business needs to be in three years, while the best CMOs drive their businesses to where they need to be in three years. The difference between the two is action. Vickers consistently exceeds his lofty goals in the remodeling industry by engaging his audiences, invigorating his teams to grow, and keeping the revenue flowing. He excels at digital marketing and is at the forefront of the latest technology trends and best practices. A peer has described Vickers as “...approachable, knowledgeable, multifaceted, and driven…with the receipts to prove it.”