Winning proposals start with a clear, compelling project approach. This session will provide practical guidance on how to interpret an RFP, understand project needs, and translate technical input into a clear, client-focused narrative. Attendees will learn how to structure an approach, highlight win themes, and craft content that resonates with potential clients, leaving with the confidence and tools to develop stronger, more effective project approaches.

Key Takeaways:

• Learn how to break down an RFP and identify key project requirements.
  
• Gain tools to translate technical input into clear, client-focused language.
• Understand how to structure a project approach for clarity and impact.

Speaker:

Emily Villines
Vice President of Strategic Communications
Calibre Engineering, Inc.
Emily Villines | LinkedIn

A curious and driven leader with a core belief in the greatness of others, Emily is Calibre’s Vice President of Strategic Communications, leading an exceptional powerhouse team of four. She is energized by collaboration and challenge and often finds herself facilitating conversations and brainstorming resolutions.

With nearly 20 years of experience writing proposals in the A/E/C industry, Emily brings a rare depth of expertise that bridges marketing and engineering. Unique among marketers, she has managed engineering projects and independently written project approach and critical issues sections for winning proposals. She has also represented Calibre in technical discussions, given engineering-focused presentations, and delivered trainings that connect complex concepts with clear communication.

Her background spans career development, leadership coaching, relationship development, strategic facilitation, and persuasive writing. A certified coach with dual Master’s degrees in English and Marketing, Emily is passionate about activating initiatives, and her greatest love is connecting people to their confidence. With 18 years in the industry, she is also an award-winning professional, recognized with Zweig Group’s Rising Star Award in 2023.

This event will be recorded and sent to all registrants post event.

Speaker:

Jen Crawford Assoc. DBIA
President
IntegrateBD
Jen Crawford | LinkedIn

Communication, written or spoken, is Jen Crawford’s expertise. This skill set paved the way for her career, starting with market research and progressing into marketing, communication, and business development. Throughout her career, Jen has played a pivotal role in developing strategies that position firms to win projects. A true connector, she excels at bringing teams together with a focus on user experience, humanizing the technical aspects to clearly demonstrate outcomes for the audience.

Working with some of the industry’s most innovative teams in architecture, engineering, and construction, Jen leverages what they do with the needs of their clients. From identifying potential work to leading pursuit strategies, she is an integral part of winning work for over 30 years. Jen worked with Syska Hennessy Group for 20 years leading client and business development in aviation, healthcare, higher education, and justice. Recently, she retired from Syska to focus on IntegrateBD, a consulting practice to empower strategic growth.

REGISTER

Note: Only SMPS Members may register at member pricing. All ticket prices increase $5 on September 13.
The Colorado Believes program is rooted in our core values of learning, commitment, and community through charitable giving, membership scholarships, and industry engagement. This program is part of our efforts to diversify membership and help provide opportunities for small and diverse firms to access educational programs. Please email SMPS Colorado’s admin for scholarship and reduced pricing opportunities.
Refunds are available if submitted to the admin one week prior to the event.