AGENDA
Sunday, November 2
-
Lunch for CCIFP
11:30am - 12:30pm
-
CCIFP Overview Seminar- Day 1
12:30pm - 4:45pm
Session Overview:
In this eight-hour instructional program, find out what you should know and learn before sitting for the Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional (CCIFP) exam. This course provides an overview of the industry domains listed in Financial Management and Accounting for the Construction Industry (“The Book”), the primary certification resource for CCIFPs.Learning Objectives:
- Identify topic areas that comprise “The Book” for CCIFPs
- Recognize the most important topics, concepts, calculations, and practices that a CCIFP should know
- Benchmark your own level of knowledge against that of a CCIFP
- Target your study efforts in critical areas to broaden and deepen your mastery of these topicsPresenters:
Jim McGettigan, CCIFP, CPA
A 30 year experienced professional serving the construction industry in financial management, accounting, and auditing. A CPA and Shareholder with CBIZ CPAs P.C. an independent CPA firm and Managing Director of Construction Industry Services with CBIZ Advisors, LLC in the Philadelphia office. Also experienced in providing attest services for employee benefit plans.Rebekah Kuller, CCIFP, CPA
Experienced construction financial accountant with CPA and CCIFP designations. Passionate about strategic planning, cash management, and industry awareness.Tony Stagliano, CCIFP, CPA
CPA / Consultant at Stagliano Consulting LLC. A leading expert in construction industry financial management and tax consulting, Tony recently retired as a Shareholder at the accounting firm CBIZ CPAs P.C. and Managing Director of Architects Engineers & Constructors (AEC) services for CBIZ Advisors, LLC (CBIZ). He consults exclusively to the A/E/C industry on financial and operations matters.Level: Intermediate
4 CPE Credits in Accounting + 4 CPE Credits in Specialized Knowledge (over the two days)
Monday, November 3
-
Breakfast
7:00am - 8:00am
-
Opening Welcome
8:10am - 8:30am
(Brad Robinson) David Casey Leadership Award Sponsorship Representative
-
What’s Your MVP? Leadership Lessons from the Coach who Inspired Ted Lasso
8:30am - 9:30am
Presented by: Donnie Campbell
Session Overview:
Coach Donnie Campbell has been referred to as the inspiration for the character, “Ted Lasso”. Donnie, like Ted Lasso, knows that when you create better people, you’ll create winning teams. In his powerful leadership keynote, Coach Donnie Campbell, the real-life inspiration for Ted Lasso, inspires audiences to discover their "MVP" - their mission, values, and principles to inspire individuals to reach their potential and teams to reach new heights.Learning Objectives:
- Know how to establish your own MVP. When you have a mission, values and a plan, you can be clear on your purpose, focus and make better decisions. This will help you succeed both personally and professionally.
- Recognize the importance of supporting future leaders as they learn the ropes and form their own set of values. It’s easy enough to tell them to have self-confidence and know their “why," but you also have to appreciate that it takes years of experience for someone to accomplish this.
- Develop people first through building character and trust will result in long-term success beyond short-term wins.
- Create a culture of respect, hard work, and teamwork unleashes potential where people value and support one another.1.0 CPE Credits in TBD
-
Break with Exhibitors
9:30am - 9:45am
Concurrent Sessions
-
Beyond Go-Live: Preparing for and Maximizing ERP Transformation
Breakout A
9:45am - 10:45amPresented by: Walter Merkas, Withum
Session Overview:
Implementing a new ERP system is more than a technology upgrade: it’s an opportunity to modernize processes, rethink structures, and empower teams. This session explores the critical steps organizations should take before selecting an ERP, including building a future-ready chart of accounts, re-evaluating project reporting and job costing, and aligning internal workflows for scalability. We’ll also address a common pitfall: adopting a new ERP but continuing to use it like the old one. How can organizations ensure their teams evolve with the system and fully leverage its capabilities? Attendees will leave with practical strategies for both preparing for ERP implementation and driving long-term adoption and value.Learning Objectives:
- Identify key pre-implementation activities that set the foundation for ERP success
- Understand how to modernize financial structures like the chart of accounts, PR, and JC
- Evaluate ERP platforms and partners based on organizational needs and growth goals
- Recognize common post-go-live pitfalls and strategies to avoid them
- Develop a plan to support user adoption and maximize ERP capabilities over time
1.0 CPE Credit in TBD -
Help! I Need More Bonding Capacity!
Breakout B
9:45am - 10:45amPresented by: David Pesce, Munich Re Specialty
Session Overview:
Whether it’s a specific large/longer term project you want to bond, or the need to increase your bond line to handle your projected growth this session will provide insight into what surety underwriters will need to meet these needs.Learning Objectives:
- Hear what underwriters need to consider large/longer term projects.
- Know what is needed to increase your bonding capacity
- Understand how your other business partners (CPA, Bank, Etc.) are important to this process1.0 CPE Credit in TBD
-
EBITDA, Net Working Capital, and Key Transaction Pitfalls: What Construction Companies Need to Know
Breakout C
11:00am - 12:00pmPresented by: Scott Damiecki, CohnReznick; Aaron Kolko,CohnReznick
Session Overview:
Construction M&A activity has remained strong in recent years, fueled by sustained interest from private equity firms and strategic buyers aiming to capitalize on healthy backlogs and a steady flow of deals. This momentum is expected to continue. In this session, we’ll examine the key metrics and terminology used to value construction companies. We’ll also highlight common pitfalls and share practical tips to help construction firms maximize their valuation and position themselves for successful transactions.Learning Objectives:
- Define EBITDA and identify common EBITDA adjustments relevant to construction companies, including owner-related expenses, non-recurring items, and normalization factors.
- Explain how Net Working Capital (NWC) and indebtedness influence transaction value, including their role in purchase price adjustments and deal structuring.
- Recognize key transaction preparation activities, such as financial statement clean-up, operational readiness, and assembling a deal team to support a successful M&A process.
1.0 CPE Credit in TBD -
Navigating Year-End HR Compliance with Confidence
Breakout D
11:00am - 12:00pmPresented by: Mary Simmons, Asure Software
Session Overview:
Wrap up the year with confidence by focusing on the most critical HR tasks to ensure compliance, efficiency, and employee engagement. This session covers essential year-end priorities, including compensation reviews, compliance & legal updates, tax prep, performance planning, policy updates, training, and employee recognition. Walk away with a clear checklist and practical tips to help your team start the new year strong.Learning Objectives:
- How to Review & Ensure HR Compliance with your Benefits & Compensation Packages.
- How to Review & Ensure HR Compliance with Laws/Regulations/Training & Reporting
- How to Review & Ensure HR Compliance with Employee Relations while also Retaining and Engaging your Staff.
1.0 CPE Credit in TBD -
Bridge Building: Enabling Project Managers with Tools to Get the Reporting You Need
Breakout E
11:00am - 12:00pmPresented by: Adam Oblath, Anterra
Session Overview:
Project managers are great at keeping projects on track. But CFOs and finance professionals like you rely on them for critical data. In reality, getting accurate, timely information from PMs can be a challenge. How can you give project managers the tools to improve forecasting and build WIP reports without overwhelming them with accounting tasks?Learning Objectives:
- Coach project managers to forecast accurately and consistently
- Demonstrate forecasting methods in a way that makes sense to PMs
- Equip PMs with simple yet effective reporting tools
- Strengthen collaboration between project teams and accounting
- Get the information you need, without overburdening PMs
1.0 CPE Credit in TBD
-
Lunch for CCIFP
12:00pm - 12:30pm
-
Lunch & Dessert with Exhibitors
12:00pm - 1:30pm
-
CCIFP Overview Course Day 2
12:30pm - 4:45pm
Session Overview: In this eight-hour instructional program, find out what you should know and learn before sitting for the Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional (CCIFP) exam. This course provides an overview of the industry domains listed in Financial Management and Accounting for the Construction Industry (“The Book”), the primary certification resource for CCIFPs.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify topic areas that comprise “The Book” for CCIFPs
- Recognize the most important topics, concepts, calculations, and practices that a CCIFP should know
- Benchmark your own level of knowledge against that of a CCIFP
- Target your study efforts in critical areas to broaden and deepen your mastery of these topicsPresenters:
Jim McGettigan, CCIFP, CPA
A 30 year experienced professional serving the construction industry in financial management, accounting, and auditing. A CPA and Shareholder with CBIZ CPAs P.C. an independent CPA firm and Managing Director of Construction Industry Services with CBIZ Advisors, LLC in the Philadelphia office. Also experienced in providing attest services for employee benefit plans.Rebekah Kuller, CCIFP, CPA
Experienced construction financial accountant with CPA and CCIFP designations. Passionate about strategic planning, cash management, and industry awareness.Tony Stagliano, CCIFP, CPA
CPA / Consultant at Stagliano Consulting LLC. A leading expert in construction industry financial management and tax consulting, Tony recently retired as a Shareholder at the accounting firm CBIZ CPAs P.C. and Managing Director of Architects Engineers & Constructors (AEC) services for CBIZ Advisors, LLC (CBIZ). He consults exclusively to the A/E/C industry on financial and operations matters.Level: Intermediate
4 CPE Credits in Accounting + 4 CPE Credits in Specialized Knowledge (over the two days)
Concurrent Sessions
-
AI/ML in Construction - A Practical and Hands-On Approach
Breakout F
1:30pm - 2:50pmPresented by: John Huckle, SD Digital; Robert Morgan, SD Digital
Session Overview:
Join SD Digital for a hands-on learning session around the usage of AI/Analytics in Construction. Leveraging Microsoft’s toolset, this session will be spent exploring ways to use natural language prompts to query and analyze disparate data sets you might find in your organization. Attendees of this session will experience prompting optimization and experience the power of natural language AI.Learning Objectives:
- Understand the differences in application of Generative versus Predictive AI/ML in Construction
- Understand and experiment with different prompting tactics to query against project estimations and project health data
- Experiment with predictive models for project estimations and project health – as well as materials management and safety
1.5 CPE Credits in TBD -
Cash Flow Panel
Breakout G
1:30pm - 2:50pmPresented by: Bill Cornelius, M&T Bank
Session Overview:
This interactive panel will explore cash flow management through the distinct lenses of a Banker, CFO, and Controller, all within the unique context of the construction industry. Moderated by [Moderator’s Name], the discussion will cover key topics such as cash flow forecasting, liquidity challenges, capital-intensive operations, and compliance with banking covenants and restrictions. Attendees will gain practical insights into how these professionals monitor and manage cash flow, address industry-specific pressures, and navigate the financial strategies essential for maintaining healthy operations in a highly leveraged environment.Learning Objectives:
1.5 CPE Credits in TBD
-
Break with Exhibitors
2:50pm - 3:05pm
Concurrent Sessions
-
Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Construction Accounting: A Role Play Experience
Breakout H
3:05pm - 4:30pmPresented by: Kimberly Hullfish, Vollers; Karianne Tomosky, CBIZ
Session Overview:
Step into the shoes of industry professional as CFMA presents an interactive ethics seminal like no other. Join a Director of Accounting and an Audit Partner as they role-play a real-world ethical dilemma in the construction industry. Through dynamic scenarios and interactive discussions, participants will explore the complexities of ethical decision-making, navigating challenges such as financial reporting, client pressures, and regulatory compliance. Additional role players will challenge perspectives and introduce new twists, giving attendees a front-row seat to the complexity of balancing professional integrity with business pressure. This session is ideal for professional seeking practical tools and fresh insights into handling ethical challenges with confidence.Learning Objectives:
- Identify Ethical Challenges: Learn to recognize common ethical dilemmas in construction accounting – like financial misstatements, conflicts of interest and compliance pressures.
- Apply Ethical Decision-Making Frameworks: Practice using structured approaches to evaluate and resolve ethical issues while maintaining professional integrity.
- Enhance Collaborative Problem-Solving: Through group discussions and role-play scenarios, participants will develop skills to collaborate effectively with stakeholders to address and resolve ethical conflicts.
1.5 CPE Credits in TBD -
Avoid Sales and Use Tax Pitfalls
Breakout I
3:05pm - 4:30pm
Presented by: Michael Colavito, Aprio Advisory Group, LLCSession Overview:
Learning Objectives:
1.5 CPE Credits in TBD
-
Cocktails with Exhibitors
5:00pm - 6:30pm
-
Dinner, Networking, Games, Football & Baseball Playoffs
6:30pm - 10:00pm
Twisted Tees Sports Bar: Dinner, drinks, Golf and other sports simulators, putting green, cornhole and other backyard games
8:00pm - 10:00pm
Angry Jack’s Axe Throwing and Dessert
Tuesday, November 4
-
Breakfast
7:00am - 8:00pm
-
Opening
8:00am - 8:20am
-
Managing Yourself for Optimum Personal Productivity
8:20am - 9:20am
Presented by: Stephane McShane, Maxim Consulting
Session Overview:
We all have the same 24 hours in a day. Why is it that some people can accomplish a lot while others struggle to make it through their in-box? It is impossible to manage time, but you can develop self-management skills to make you more focused and productive. This interactive and reflective session will identify the time wasters that prevent you from reaching your potential and provide you with 10 tips on how to maximize productivity!Learning Objectives:
- Discuss what it looks like to manage your time effectively
- Explore the difference in important and unimportant activities
- Conduct a self-analysis about how you spend your time and discuss these findings with your classmates
- Improve your time management skills with valuable tools and techniques
1.0 CPE Credit in TBD -
Break With Exhibitors
9:20am - 9:30am
Concurrent Sessions
-
Removing the Myth of Bid Markups-Dual Overhead Rates of Recovery
Breakout J
9:30am - 10:45amPresented by: Stephanie McShane, Maxim Consulting
Session Overview:
The objective of an estimating group is to produce a bid that represents cost, including overhead. We will show you how to put math behind the method of recovering overhead, so that you are recovering it correctly and accurately. We know intuitively that a high labor, low material job contains more risk, but how do we account for this? We will explore this very simple method and give you the training necessary to implement its use.Learning Objectives:
- Eliminate the guesswork behind bid markups
- Understand what should be contained in overhead, and what should be considered direct job cost
- How to calculate costs1.5 CPE Credits in TBD
-
Project Closeout
Breakout K
9:30am - 10:45amPresented by: Anthony Byler, Cohen Seglias, Pallas Greenhall & Furman PC
Session Overview:
This session will explore the critical legal considerations involved in properly closing out a construction project. Topics will include lien waivers, final change orders, contract compliance, dispute mitigation, and other key legal issues that can arise during project closeout. Attendees will gain practical insights to help protect their companies and ensure a smooth transition from completion to final payment.Learning Objectives:
1.5 CPE Credit in TBD
-
AI in Construction Finance: Balancing Innovation with Insight
11:00am - 12:00pm
Presented by: Randy Sibold, Warner Construction; Ken Jones, Business Information Group; Sara Dolan, Gorski Engineering; Frank DiLorenzo, eMars
Session Overview:
As AI continues to evolve, so do the perspectives surrounding its use in construction finance. While some embrace its potential to streamline workflows and enhance decision-making, others remain cautious—concerned about overreliance, ethical implications, and the loss of human judgment. This closing session brings together a diverse panel of professionals—across generations and roles—to explore the real-world impact of AI in construction finance. We’ll examine both the promise and the pitfalls of AI, including how different age groups approach these tools, what’s working in the field today, and where human insight remains irreplaceable. Expect a lively discussion that includes not just human panelists, but also a live AI demonstration—offering a unique look at how these tools perform in real time.Learning Objectives:
- Understand how AI is currently being used in construction finance
- Explore generational differences in AI adoption and trust
- Identify potential risks and ethical considerations
- Learn how to balance automation with human oversight1.0 CPE Credits in TBD
-
Lunch - Grab and Go Lunch or Eat in
12:20pm
The Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA) is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its website.
Website:https://www.nasbaregistry.org/