Q: What were your top takeaways from JETC 2025?
A: JETC 2025 was a masterclass in collaboration. The sessions reinforced how critical it is to align infrastructure planning with mission readiness, especially in today’s rapidly evolving threat landscape. I was struck by the emphasis on resilience, adaptability, and the role of A&E and Construction professionals in supporting national security. The Innovation Pavilion showcased technologies that aren’t just futuristic; they’re actionable now. And the conversations around procurement transparency and interagency coordination were especially relevant to the work we do at GPD.
Q: As Secretary of the SAME Kentuckiana Post, how did your role influence your experience at JETC?
A: Serving as Post Secretary gives me a unique viewpoint. I wasn’t just attending, I was representing a community of professionals who care deeply about the SAME mission. Volunteering at the event allowed me to connect with emerging leaders, support logistics behind the scenes, and help foster the kind of engagement SAME is known for. It also deepened my appreciation for how local posts fuel national impact. The Kentuckiana Post is growing, and JETC reminded me why that momentum matters.
Q: Were there any sessions or speakers that particularly inspired you or challenged your thinking?
A: Robert Irvine’s keynote was exceptional, not just because of his energy, but because of his message about service, grit, and leadership under pressure. Jo Bass also brought a powerful perspective on strategic readiness and the human side of military engineering. Both challenge us to think beyond technical solutions and consider the broader mission impact. I left those sessions thinking not just about what we build, but why we build it.
Q. How do you see the ideas and relationships formed at JETC influencing your work with federal clients?
A: JETC reinforced the importance of early engagement and transparent planning. The relationships we built, whether with agency reps or fellow industry leaders, are already informing how we approach upcoming projects. We’re better positioned to anticipate needs, align with mission objectives, and deliver solutions that are both technically sound and strategically relevant. It’s not just about contracts, it’s about trust, continuity, and shared purpose.
Q. What are you most looking forward to at next year’s JETC in Portland?
A: I’m excited to see how SAME expands the Innovation Pavilion and leadership programs. I’m especially looking forward to bringing more of our GPD team, including those newer to federal work. JETC always ignites collaboration, creativity, and mission-driven design, and I expect next year will be no different.
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If you’ve attended or plan to attend a SAME event, we’d love to hear your ideas. Get involved, share insights, and help shape the future of SAME through collaboration and partnership.