John Chiang was elected in November 2006 to serve as California’s Chief Fiscal Officer.

The Controller is the chair of the Franchise Tax Board, and serves on 78 boards and commissions including CalPERS and CalSTRS, the nation’s first and second largest public pension funds, and the State Lands Commission.

Controller Chiang has long championed financial literacy, and he is using his position to empower working families.  Through seminars and free tax preparation assistance, Chiang educates low- and middle-income Californians about taking advantage of tax credits and refunds they have earned.

As Controller, Chiang has moved swiftly to ensure California is on the road to prosperity while meeting its obligations to workers and retirees.  Upon assuming office, Chiang immediately hired an independent actuary to determine – ahead of schedule – the costs of post-employment benefits as the first step in crafting California’s long-term plan to meet the State’s accounting and healthcare commitments.

Controller Chiang also understands the frustrations that local governments and school districts face when complying with mandated programs.  As a result, he is creating an unprecedented assistance program to provide local officials with the tools, information and guidance they need to protect their funds while complying with State laws and restrictions.

Chiang is committed to safeguarding California’s vast and precious natural resources.  Chiang has joined with institutional investors managing $4 trillion in assets to call on federal lawmakers to enact a national standard to address global warming.  As a member of the State Lands Commission, he is committed to preserving the state’s 1,200 miles of coastline that stretch from Oregon to Mexico, and ensuring the public has access to safe, pristine parks and recreation areas.

The Controller brings extensive experience and fiscal leadership to the State Controller’s Office.  Chiang was first elected to the Board of Equalization in 1998 where he served two terms, including three years as chair. He began his career as a tax law specialist with the Internal Revenue Service and previously served as an attorney in the State Controller’s Office.

Chiang is the son of immigrant parents, and graduated with honors from the University of South Florida with a degree in Finance.  He received his law degree from the Georgetown University Law Center.

Chiang and his wife, Terry Chi, live in Torrance, California.

Ursula Mentjes is the Founder of Sales Coach Now, as well as an Inspirational Speaker, Author and Certified Sales Coach who specializes in Neuro-Linguistic Programming to help her clients double and triple their sales. Ursula honed her skills at an International Technical Training company, starting her career in sales in 1996 and advancing to the position of President in 2001 when the company’s annual run rate was approximately $20,000,000.00 and she was just 27 years old. She was responsible for increasing sales by 90% in one year.

Ursula is passionate about helping individuals and businesses reach their greatest sales goals, so in 2004 she founded Potential Quest, Inc., a Sales Coaching and Training organization, parent company of Sales Coach Now. Ursula holds a Master’s Degree in Psychology, is an Associate Certified Coach through the International Coaches Federation and an NLP Certified Coach through the MLP Institute of California. She is also the author of Selling with Intention, Immediate Past-President of the National Association of Women Business Owners Inland Empire Chapter, founding member of Business Resource Connection, a 2006 Graduate of Leadership California, 2007 Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards Finalist, named one of 951 Magazine’s 51 to watch in 2008 and recipient of the 2009 NAWBO-IE A.N.I.T.A Award. 10% of all proceeds for Sales Coach Now are donated to the Inland Empire Women’s Business Center to ensure future opportunities for Entrepreneurs. www.iewbc.org.

Vic Salazar is President/CEO of Vic Salazar Communications, a full-service public and media relations agency in San Diego. Vic Salazar Communications is certified as a Small Business Enterprise by the San Diego County Water Authority’s SCOOP program.  The company is also certified as a Minority Business Enterprise by the California Public Utilities Commission.

As a professional communicator, Vic Salazar has successfully navigated public relations campaigns for every media platform: print, television, radio and online.   In addition, through media training, clients are empowered to anticipate the rigors of a media interview and identify methods to gain optimal results for their message.

Vic Salazar draws upon his extensive media experience and professional contacts to promote positive exposure of an organization’s brand or initiatives.  His 26 year career as an Emmy award winning television news anchor has produced valuable relationships with local, state and national decision makers.  His positive interaction with business, government, education and community leaders prove to be an asset when creating or expanding community outreach programs.
 
Vic is a firm believer in the benefits of higher education and has devoted countless hours over the years speaking to middle and high school students to encourage them to attend college.  Most of his motivational speeches are delivered to minority students and he encourages them to return to their neighborhoods following college graduation to serve as role models.

Vic Salazar was raised in La Mesa and is a graduate of Mt. Miguel High School.  Vic earned a B.A. in Communication Studies from UCLA and serves on the executive boards of the Chicano Federation of San Diego County, East County Family YMCA, Salvation Army Kroc Center and Bruin Professionals of San Diego. 

Rua Petty serves as President of the Board of Directors for the Rainbow Municipal Water District, and represents the District on the San Diego County Water Authority Board of Directors.  He is Vice Chair of the Water Authority’s Small Contractor Outreach and Opportunities Program (SCOOP) Committee, establishing policies that maximize small business participation on Water Authority procurements.  Director Petty is also a member of the Water Authority’s Administrative and Finance Committee and the Engineering and Operations Committee.

His many professional and community activities include serving as Chairman of the Rainbow Land Use Planning Group, California Protea Association and the International Protea Association Board Member, San Diego Farm Bureau Member, and VFW Post 1924 Member.

Director. Petty graduated from Western State University, Gunnison Colorado, and is the owner of Colorado Management and Associates, Inc. and the RJT Ranch.

Marilyn Dailey represents the City of Escondido on the San Diego County Water Authority Board of Directors.  She is the Chair of the Water Authority’s Legislative, Conservation and Outreach Committee.  Director Dailey is also a member of the Water Authority’s Water Planning Committee.

Her many professional and community activities include serving as Board Member of the Escondido Education Foundation, founding Member of the California Center for the Arts in Escondido, Volunteer for the White House Office of Special Assistant to the President – Women’s Liaison, and formerly Co-owner and Corporate Officer of Dailey Enterprises and Escondido Sand and Gravel.

Director Dailey graduated from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois and Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri.

Marty Keller was appointed to be the small business advocate for the Governor's Office of Planning and Research in May 2007.

Prior to joining the Governor’s Office, Keller served for five years as executive director of the California Automotive Business Coalition (CalABC). In that capacity he helped auto repair shops deal with the state’s regulatory environment. He also served as CalABC’s representative on the Board of Directors of the California Small Business Association. From 1999 to 2001, Keller was president of Greenslip Incorporated, an independent automotive inspection service. From 1995 to 1999, Keller served as chief of the Bureau of Automotive Repair. Additionally, in Governor Wilson’s first term, Keller served as chief of the Bureau of Home Furnishings and Thermal Insulation and the Bureau of Electronic and Appliance Repair. During the 1980s, Keller was sales manager for Pacific Financial Printing, a small business in San Francisco.  

Angel Carrera is the Department of General Services (State of California) Business Development Program Manager having been appointed by the Governor on November 28, 2007. As the Business Development Program Manager, he is the Department’s key advisor and small business liaison to underrepresented, emerging and other small business communities regarding certification, reciprocity programs, contracting opportunities and infrastructure bonds (AB 761). Before his current position, Angel was the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Manager at the Department of Transportation. He served as the statewide manager of a multi-organizational Civil Rights Program consisting of Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program, Small Business Unit, Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Program, Contract Evaluation Unit and Supportive Services Unit. Prior to that, he served as the Contract and Procurement Services Section Manger for the California State Lottery. Angel received his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from California State University, Northridge and completed the Masters Program in Public Administration at California State University, Los Angeles. Angel enjoys spending time with his wife and watching his boys play sports. He also likes to hunt and read.

Jim Butler, Chief Procurement Officer for the State of California, comes to the position with 16 years experience leading procurement, systems, and business development teams through the process of growth and change. Mr. Butler was Director Procurement Services at Levi Strauss & Co. from 2002 until 2007 reengineering legacy purchasing functions, implementing strategic sourcing, and deploying eProcurement tools across multiple categories. From 1996 until 2001, Mr. Butler held several senior manager positions with Dell Computer Corporation in procurement, ERP systems, and business development. From 1993 until 1996, Mr. Butler led Asia business development efforts for a portfolio of start-up clients at Asia Pacific Ventures, a boutique venture capital company in Menlo Park, California. Mr. Butler holds a CPSM from the Institute for Supply Management and is a member of ISM’s certification committee. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Japanese and a Masters of Business Administration, both from Brigham Young University.

Dawn Vettese serves as the Chief of the Office of Organization Effectiveness in Caltrans, District 11.  With over 15 years at Caltrans, she has worked in both Sacramento and San Diego in a variety of areas, including Design, Local Assistance, Project Management, and Administration.  Her responsibilities include oversight of the District's Small Business Program.

Lorna Rice, is the District Deputy Director of Administration for Caltrans District 11.  Lorna has been employed with Caltrans for almost 30 years.  She started in Accounting as a student assistant and has had various jobs throughout Administration and Program Project Management. Lorna's most rewarding position in Caltrans is her current position over Administration.

Accelerating Sustainability in San DiegoRoom 202A

Session: 10:00 - 11:15 a.m.

A look at local agency initiatives, successes, and future goals.

Moderator:
Kamala Kuresman As a member of Nolte’s Sustainable Planning Forum, Kamala develops sustainability initiatives and implementation practices for Nolte, a 450-person civil engineering firm. As the Regional Sustainable Design Champion, she continually implements and improves Nolte’s sustainable business practices, leads assessments to incorporate sustainable features in the firm’s design projects, and organizes quarterly trainings for office personnel. Kamala has been a U.S. Green Building Council LEED Accredited Professional since 2006 and serves on the Board of Directors and as Co-Chair of the Programs Committee for the San Diego Chapter of the USGBC.

Angela Shafer-Payne is Vice President of Planning and Operations at the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority. As Vice President of Planning and Operations, Angela oversees short- and long-term planning, land use planning, environmental affairs, airside and landside operations, and public safety and security. Angela served as Director of Airport Business and Administration responsible for airport contracts, marketing, finance liaison and business planning for the Airport Division. Angela received a Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in Airport Administration from the University of North Dakota and she holds an Instrument Rated Pilot’s License.

John Coon assumed responsibilities as the Chief Engineer and Capital Improvements Business Line Coordinator at NAVFAC Southwest in January 2007, after previously serving as Capital Improvements Business Line Programs and Business Management Product Line Coordinator, where he was primarily responsible for Military Construction Program Management and Resource Management. Mr. Coon oversees 700 professionals across a wide range of disciplines, and is responsible for the planning, design and construction of over $1B worth of facilities annually for a variety of supported commands across six southwestern states. Mr. Coon graduated from San Diego State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering in 1990. John is a registered Professional Engineer in California and a graduate of the NAVFAC Leadership Development Initiative program.

Sachin Kalbag had been a CCDC employee since December 2004 as a Senior Planner-Urban Designer. He is the project manager for projects such as the C Street Revitalization Plan, Wayfinding Signage Program, Lighting and Sustainability Master Plans, and is responsible for the agency’s design reviews and entitlements. Prior to joining the CCDC team, Mr. Kalbag was a project manager for the San Jose Redevelopment Agency where he worked on large capital projects, master plans and transportation. He has also worked as a designer for various architectural offices. Mr. Kalbag studied at California State Polytechnic University in Pomona, Calif., where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Architecture. He earned a master’s degree in Architecture from the University of California, Los Angeles.

Lance R. Lareau- A LEED-accredited professional with a commitment to sustainability, Lance R. Lareau has served as the District Architect for the San Diego Community College District since 2006, overseeing the design and construction of Capital Improvements for the District. He has more than 20 years experience in architecture, specializing in higher education, K-12 and bio-tech facilities. A second-generation architect, Lance received his architectural degree from the University of California.

Alternative Project Delivery Methods
Latest Trends in Delivering Public Works Infrastructure Room 202B

Session: 10:00 a.m.- 11:15 a.m.

This workshop will discuss alternative project delivery methods that are currently being implemented by owners in our region’s public works sector.  Topics will include an overview of alternative project delivery methods, such as CM Multi-Prime, Design-Build, and Design-Sequencing, the advantages and risks associated with these methods, and the general contract requirements appropriate for these alternative project delivery methods.  Join us for this workshop and get to know your customer better by learning the pros and cons of theses alternative project delivery methods directly from the owners’ perspective.

Moderator:
Mark Claussen has 28 years of progressive field, supervisory, and executive responsibility in customer-oriented facilities management, building construction, and infrastructure development organizations. Mr. Claussen is currently leading PinnacleOne’s team providing overall program and construction management services for Poway (California) Unified School District’s $340 million bond program. Mr. Claussen provided recommendations for accelerating the schedule for project completion by six years, thereby reducing the impact of construction inflation, saving taxpayers close to $21 million. Prior to joining PinnacleOne, he previously served as director of Architecture and Engineering for the County of San Diego and completed 21 years in the Navy Civil Engineer Corps.

Jim Gillie graduated from Penn State with a Bachelor’s Degree in Architectural Engineering in 1978. He began working with Blake Construction, Inc. as an estimator and was the Vice President of West Coast Operations when he left in 2000. Since then he has been the Sr. Director of Construction Services at the University of California, San Diego.

Omar RodeA, P.E., DBIA, is the Director of Engineering Services of J.R. Filanc Construction, an award-winning, general engineering and design-build construction firm founded in 1952.  J.R. Filanc Construction specializes in the construction, renovation and expiation of water and wastewater treatment plants, biosolids management and waste-to-energy facilities. Mr. Rodea has 14 years of construction experience, and has worked on numerous projects throughout Southern California ranging from one to one-hundred million.  Mr. Rodea holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering from San Diego State University.  He is a Professional Engineer in the State of California and is also a designated Design-Build Professional.

Steve Cornell is the Director of the Terminal Develop Program (TDP), named “The Green Build”, for the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority, the agency responsible for management and operation of San Diego International Airport. In this role, Mr. Cornell has overall responsibility for implementing the $1.0 billion airport expansion program that includes a ten (10) gate terminal expansion, aircraft parking apron, 12 position remain-over-night (RON) aircraft parking apron, terminal roadway reconfiguration, 2nd level departure roadway, and full service check-in curb “Smart Curb”.

Richard Burkhart
Construction Manager, Facilities Management
San Diego Community College District

Regional Issues for Government ConsultantsA Panel Discussion with the Regional Construction Procurement Committee
Room 204A

Session: 10:00 a.m.- 11:15 a.m.

Hosted by the Regional Construction Procurement Committee, this panel offers a look at current issues for consultants interested in business opportunities related to public works. Attendees and stakeholders will have an opportunity to ask questions and participate in a dialogue with top-level executives and recognized industry experts responsible for consulting services that support the design, development, and management of public infrastructure in the San Diego region. From the point of view of both government management and private companies, this panel offers an exchange of experiences, perspectives, and information of the agencies responsible for these programs, the firms working and bidding on these projects, and the impacts to the community served.

The Regional Construction Procurement Committee (RCPC) is a consortium of senior executives from public agencies throughout San Diego region. The committee's focus is to coordinate the bidding of major infrastructure projects within the region, discuss market issues and material availability, streamline bidding administration, and share ideas for improving public agency procurement processes.

Moderator:
VIC BIANES is an Engineering Manager for the San Diego County Water Authority, overseeing the Design Group for the Water Authority’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Prior to joining the Water Authority, Vic served as Deputy Director of the city of San Diego’s Water Department CIP. Vic’s extensive experience includes water distribution, water treatment, planning, construction management, project management, and design.  Vic earned a B.A. in Civil Engineering from San Diego State University and a MBA from the University of Riverside.  He is a California registered civil engineer and was the previous Chair of the San Diego Regional Construction Procurement Committee.

Iraj Ghaemi has over 25 years of diversified professional experience in management, program management, and program planning for transportation programs in the public and private sectors. Prior to his current position, he was the Deputy Director of FDD, Assistant Director of Engineering-Airport for the San Diego Unified Port District, and the Regional Manager for a multi-discipline international engineering consulting firm. Mr. Ghaemi has a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Brigham Young University, and is a Registered Civil Engineer in the States of California and Arizona.

Frank Belock is a Deputy General Manager for the San Diego County Water Authority. Belock joined the Water Authority in 2007.
As deputy general manger, Belock has oversight of the Water Authority’s extensive infrastructure system, which includes almost 300 miles of large-diameter pipelines and associated facilities, as well as a dynamic $3.4 billion capital improvement program. Prior to joining the Water Authority, Belock worked for Parsons as an area manager and as the Director of the Water Department for the city of San Diego. Belock holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Vermont and a master’s degree in public administration from San Diego State University.

William Prey is a Principal Engineer for the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG), a regional planning and transportation agency for the area’s 19 local governments. William's primary responsibilities include management of the Board's construction program, which includes rail extensions, bus facilities, and other transit related projects. He is responsible for the development, budget, and schedule of the construction program, and has managed the construction and construction management of seven major LRT projects. William serves as the SANDAG Construction Engineer and Interim LOSSAN Corridor Director, he is also the Chair for the San Diego Regional Procurement Committee, which is composed of members of several public agencies throughout San Diego County. The committee’s focus is to coordinate the bidding of major infrastructure projects within the region, discuss market issues and material shortages, and share ideas for improving public agency procurement processes.

Ramin Abidi joined the County of San Diego in 2001, has over twenty-four years of experience in public works projects, construction management. Notable works include the San Francisco Bay area seismic retrofit of the San Mateo-Hayward toll bridge and State Highway 85 projects with a combination of $120 million in contracts

Jim Watts is responsible for updating SDUSD’s Long-Range Facilities Master Plan which formed the basis for Proposition S, a 2.1 billion dollar bond measure for SDUSD that was approved in November 2008. Proposition S will provide new educational technology and repair, renovate and modernize 181 educational facilities in the district over the next decade. During Jim’s 20-year tenure with the district, he has worked on four major bond measures and currently oversees the district’s facilities planning, environmental planning and state facilities funding operations.

Tom Frank
American Public Works Association

Joe Tognoli
American Council of Engineering Companies

Clark Fernon
American Council of Engineering Companies -Transportation

The Secret to Building Relationships with Public AgenciesRoom 204B

Session: 10:00 a.m.- 11:15 a.m.

Hear from Public Agency Consortium (PAC) representatives on steps you can take to successfully connect your firm with government procurement needs and grow your business effectively in the public sector realm. PAC consists of local San Diego public agencies who want to increase bidding opportunities for small businesses and the firms they partner with in pursuing government work. Since 2003, PAC has collaborated to help streamline procurement processes and provide outreach and training on how to do business with each of these 12 agencies: Caltrans, the City of San Diego, the County of San Diego, the Centre City Development Corporation, the San Diego Contracting Opportunities Center, the Port of San Diego, the San Diego Association of Governments, the San Diego Community College District, the San Diego Housing Commission, the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority, and the San Diego County Water Authority.

Moderator:
John Arena is the Business Outreach Program Manager at the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (Metropolitan), the region's major water importer and wholesaler.
John manages the Regional/Small Business Program and is responsible for reviewing $500 million annually in contracting activity in an effort to maximize business opportunities for regional and small businesses in the six counties of Southern California. As manager of the Regional/Small Business Program for Metropolitan, John and staff provide the outreach to regional and small businesses in the six-county service area of southern California. John graduated from California State University Long Beach with a Masters in Public Administration.

Terrell Breaux has more than 25 years of progressively responsible experience directing employees in companies with revenues in excess of $500 million. Terrell has spent 8 years with the City of San Diego most recently as Supervising Management Analyst with the Equal Opportunity Contracting Program.  His understanding of contract and labor compliance enables him to promote success in public contracting through education and an unwavering focus on the true value of equality. The Equal Opportunity Contracting Program provides mentorships and technical assistance to small and emerging contractors and develops partnerships with the contracting community, emerging businesses and client departments.Among his previous positions, Terrell was a Subcontract Administrator and Consultant Coordinator for 17 years with Science Applications International Corporation, a Virginia-based Fortune 500 multinational research and technology company.

Elaine Richardson is the Manager of Contracts and Procurement for the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG). SANDAG is the San Diego region’s primary public planning, transportation, and research agency, providing the public forum for regional policy decisions. The projected SANDAG Capital Program for FY 2010 is $776.2 million. Elaine is responsible for providing procurement services for all of SANDAG’s needs. In addition to contracting, Elaine is also responsible for SANDAG’s small business outreach. She takes great pride in assisting small businesses with growth opportunities at SANDAG and other San Diego public agencies. Elaine holds a Masters of Business Administration in Finance and Marketing from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.

Joanne Pilgrim has been with the San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD) approximately nine years. In 1990, Ms. Pilgrim graduated from Western State University (now known as Thomas Jefferson School of Law) with a Juris Doctor degree. Prior to pursuing a graduate degree, Ms. Pilgrim was employed by the U.S. State Department for more than two years at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo, Japan. With passage of Proposition MM in 1998, Ms. Pilgrim was employed by SDUSD to assist with Facilities contracts under the former Director of the Physical Plant Operations Center. Ms. Pilgrim currently is involved with supervision of the Proposition S professional service contracts, the $2.1 billion school bond measure passed in November 2008.

Gunnar Schalin has served as Program Director of the San Diego Contracting Opportunities Center – SDCOC since 1998. SDCOC’s purpose is to provide contracting related assistance to small businesses desiring to work in the public sector. The Center has been recognized for excellence both locally and nationally.
Previously Mr. Schalin served in management positions in the biotech, software and aerospace industries. As Procurement Services Manager his company’s Small Business Program received the highest rating from the combined review of the Defense Contracts Management Agency and the Small Business Administration. He holds a Certificate in Entrepreneurship as well as a M.S. in Business Administration from San Diego State University. He completed thirty years in the Army Reserve and is a graduate of the Army, Navy and Air Force War Colleges.

Charlene McAdory is the Equal Opportunity Contract Administrator for Centre City Development Corporation (CCDC). The Corporation is charged with the responsibility of redeveloping and revitalizing downtown San Diego - to build a vibrant, successful memorable downtown for the people living, working and visiting to have a quality of options to choose from. At CCDC, McAdory manages all EO efforts in business contracting (consultant, vendor and construction). In addition, she monitors contracting achievements for design services and construction contracts of entities with Redevelopment Agency development agreements. Charlene McAdory, formerly a state investigator, and equal opportunity compliance officer for the Minnesota Department of Human Rights, conducted human and civil rights investigations and equal opportunity compliance audits.

Launch of the State of California's New e-Procurement System Room 206

Session: 10:00 a.m.- 11:15 a.m.

State of California agencies strive to award 25% of their annual contract dollars to certified Small Businesses and 3% to certified Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises, with a 5% bid preference to these firms in the formal bid process. You will learn how to participate in the State's new e-Procurement System, designed to facilitate your involvement and ability to compete for these contract dollars. Attend this session to discover the many different business opportunities available to you!

Eric Mandell joined the California Department to General Services as Chief of Communications and Outreach for the Procurement Division on December 1, 2005. He also serves as the Department’s Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Advocate.

Eric has over 30 years in the fields of marketing, communications, advertising, and the media. He has created award winning marketing efforts and campaigns for California’s Breast Cancer Awareness, Enterprise Zones, Military Base Reuse, and Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank programs, as well as Sacramento WORKS for Sacramento County

Danetta Jackson was recently hired as the Manager of the California Department of General Services Communication and Outreach Branch for the Procurement Division on January 29, 2008. She also serves as the Department’s Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Advocate. In these capacities, Danetta and her staff work to make certain that Small and DVBE businesses get access to their share of state awarded contracts. In addition, Danetta is in charge of forging strategic collaborations, which benefit Small businesses and DVBEs, with government agencies at the local, statewide and federal levels.

Danetta has over 18 years experience working in State Government in the areas of Training, Outreach and Advocacy. She is a graduate of California State University, Sacramento.

Michael Aguillio has over 17 years of experience within State Government. He has also worked in the federal & private sector. His State services includes, warehouse manager for Department of Developmental Services, Senior buyer for the Energy Commission, Cal-Fire Small Business (SB) and Disable Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Program administrator, and Contract administrator specializing in fuel acquisitions for Department of General Services (DGS). Michael now represents DGS as a customer liaison in the Communication and Outreach Unit. He is a dedicated advocate who is committed to help SB’s and DVBE’s find contracting opportunity with the State of California.

The Federal Stimulus Package in San DiegoRoom 202A

Session: 2:00 p.m.- 3:15 p.m.

This workshop is designed for businesses that have an interest in learning about the more than $700 billion federal American Recovery & Reinvestment Act (ARRA), intended to jump start the economy and create jobs.  Also known in business circles as the Federal Stimulus Package, ARRA opportunities includes many benefits to small businesses not commonly known.  Panelists will discuss how the funding has been disbursed in the San Diego region, perceptions of what ARRA is and is not, and where to obtain credible information on business opportunities and assistance programs.

Moderator:
Michelle S. Butler, Founder, President/CEO, Women’s Business Center of California. Michelle is an entrepreneur at heart inspired by transforming challenges into opportunities. She holds a Master's of International Relations from the Graduate School of International Relations and Pacific Studies at the University of California San Diego. She also graduated magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa with a B.A. in Communication and Spanish from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

Angel Carrera is the Department of General Services (State of California) Business Development Program Manager having been appointed by the Governor on November 28, 2007. As the Business Development Program Manager, he is the Department’s key advisor and small business liaison to underrepresented, emerging and other small business communities regarding certification, reciprocity programs, contracting opportunities and infrastructure bonds (AB 761). Before his current position, Angel was the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Manager at the Department of Transportation. He served as the statewide manager of a multi-organizational Civil Rights Program consisting of Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program, Small Business Unit, Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Program, Contract Evaluation Unit and Supportive Services Unit. Prior to that, he served as the Contract and Procurement Services Section Manger for the California State Lottery. Angel received his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from California State University, Northridge and completed the Masters Program in Public Administration at California State University, Los Angeles. Angel enjoys spending time with his wife and watching his boys play sports. He also likes to hunt and read.

Richard Chavez is a Principal Transportation Engineer with the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG). His current responsibilities include overseeing the development of major highway and transit congestion relief projects funded by the region’s $14 billion TransNet half-cent sales tax program. The projects include high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes, managed lanes, general purpose lanes, light-rail (LRT), and bus rapid transit (BRT) improvements to the region’s major transportation corridors. He oversees $ 200 million of consultant contracts and facilitates work efforts between SANDAG and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). He has developed a number of project control measures including a Cost Management System, Electronic Schedules Update system, and the TransNet Dashboard.

Chuck Flacks
Chuck Flacks, Director of Research and Policy, began work at the San Diego Workforce Partnership on June 4, 2007.  He oversees the work of a team of eight who specialize in bringing labor market information and workforce development policy to employers, job seekers, community organizations, career counselors and decision makers. In addition he oversees performance measurement of the Workforce Partnership programs.  He also supervises the management of the San Diego Funders Collaborative, a philanthropic approach to workforce development.

Chuck received his undergraduate degree in Sociology from UC Santa Cruz, and his Master of Public Policy Degree from the Harvard University Kennedy School of Government where he specialized in housing and urban economic development policy.  Recently, Chuck completed a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy at San Diego State University.

Dr. Ruben Garcia, Ruben Garcia is responsible for overseeing SBA’s financial and educational development programs for San Diego and Imperial Counties.  Last year the San Diego District Office ranked number one among 70 offices nationwide in attaining a number of fixed goals during fiscal year 2005, guaranteeing 1,395 loans worth $401 million with the assistance of its participating lenders. Approximately 27,000 small businesses received counseling assistance and training with SCORE, the Small Business Development Center Network of San Diego and Imperial Counties, and the Women’s Business Center of California. Additionally, 477 contracts and modifications, worth $92,544,056, were awarded to small businesses in San Diego and Imperial Counties.

Steve Friar, Mr. Friar, as Director of Project Development, is responsible for leading and coordinating District procurement functions. In this role, he identifies and responds to client inquiries, solicitations, and works with senior management to formulate the most qualified project team to deliver a successful project.
Mr. Friar is a native San Diegan who graduated from Granite Hills High School in El Cajon.  Since receiving his B.A. from California State University at Chico, he has been involved in the construction industry in some shape or form for the past 15 years.  Upon graduation Steve and his wife Jeanette moved to the East Bay area (Oakland) where he cut his teeth in both the business and “real world” of labor relations.  In 1997, Steve had the opportunity to move back to San Diego with his company and the task of either turning the operation around or shutting it down.  Within 2 years the operation had turned around dramatically with sales increases of 300% and a stable market forged.

Essentials of Successful Online MarketingRoom 202B

Session: 2:00 p.m.- 3:15 p.m.

Today's web technologies offer more affordable and interactive methods for small and midsize companies to target new audiences, streamline marketing budgets, and more effectively measure marketing results. But before jumping into this fast-paced world of online marketing, a business should understand the options and caveats associated with Web 2.0 marketing strategies.  This panel discussion will discuss the benefits of incorporating Web 2.0 marketing strategies into their marketing plan, which options should be considered, and how to effectively use these strategies when targeting government customers and prime contractors.  Our panel includes experts who specialize in social media, websites and search engine optimization, and business intelligence solutions.  Join us for a discussion on how to take advantage of today’s web technologies and the interactive and collaborative opportunities associated with these e-marketing strategies.  

Moderator:
Frank Boss Jr. is the owner and founder of Power Find Business Intelligence. A competitive business intelligence professional since 1995, he also served as a senior non-commissioned intelligence officer and senior analyst with the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton from1997 to 2001, providing combined tactical and national level intelligence analysis to command staff and senior decision-makers. Frank’s experience involves understanding how markets work and function, how to research and analyze market and competitive trends and distribution channels within specific market segments, and how to develop a practical and innovative competitive strategy for product or service success in the marketplace.

Cindy Turrietta is the founder of Affordable Search Engine Ranking, which helps clients understand what search engines want and what is pleasing to the user community. An industry-recognized expert on search engine optimization (SEO), Cindy also hosted the eMarketing Talk Show in 2004, an Internet-based talk show on the subject of Internet marketing. Cindy teaches SEO classes at SCORE San Diego, and was an invited speaker at the Webmaster's PubCon conference and Microsoft's Worldwide Partner's Conference in 2008 and 2009.

Johnny Chan is a strategist, marketer, blogger and popular speaker on the past, present and future of marketing. Johnny serves as the lead lecturer, facilitator, and program designer in eBoost Consulting's Executive Education courses in San Diego, leading companies and audiences to breakthrough insights and actionable strategies. His project management background emphasizes sound group dynamics and team alignment as he presents on cutting-edge and time-applicable marketing strategies and tactics.

Sashi Muralidharan has more than 20 years of professional experience administering community-based programs subject to local, state and/or federal guidelines. Prior to joining the City’s Harbor Department (Port of Long Beach) as the Small Business Enterprises (SBE) Administrator, Sashi’s experience was focused in various Community Development components such as Redevelopment, Housing Rehabilitation, Section 8 Rental Assistance and Code Enforcement for various municipalities. His tenure with the City of Long Beach began in 1998. In 2005, he assumed his current position, SBE Administrator. Sashi’s role is to manage the Port’s Small Business Enterprises (SBE)/Very Small Business Enterprises (VSBE) Program. Over the past four years, he has successfully facilitated greater opportunities for small businesses to participate on Port contracts and procurements, which average approximately $200 million in annual expenditures. Sashi is a graduate of the University of California at Irvine (UCI) with a bachelor’s degree in Social Ecology.

Steve Kozyk, CEO/ Founder of ITegrity SEO Web Development and Design helps small and medium size organizations create and improve their web presence and online marketing strategies.  With web trends and technology changing at an increasingly rapid pace, Steve has a passion for learning and mastering cutting-edge, effective web based marketing methods.  Steve’s diverse background includes his role as an entrepreneur at the helm of a tech start-up, designing and deploying web technologies and social networks, and empowering organizations to grow their web presence organically.

Regional Issues for Public Works A Panel Discussion with the Regional Construction Procurement Committee
Room 204A

Session: 2:00 p.m.- 3:15 p.m.

. Hosted by the Regional Construction Procurement Committee, this panel offers a look at current issues for contractors interested in business opportunities related to public works. Attendees and stakeholders will have an opportunity to ask questions and participate in a dialogue with top-level executives and recognized industry experts responsible for developing and building public infrastructure in the San Diego region.
From the point of view of both government management and private companies, this panel offers an exchange of experiences, perspectives, and information of the agencies responsible for these programs, the firms working and bidding on these projects, and the impacts to the community served.

The Regional Construction Procurement Committee (RCPC) is a consortium of senior executives from public agencies throughout San Diego region. The committee's focus is to coordinate the bidding of major infrastructure projects within the region, discuss market issues and material availability, streamline bidding administration, and share ideas for improving public agency procurement processes.

Moderator:
William Prey is a Principal Engineer for the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG), a regional planning and transportation agency for the area’s 19 local governments. William's primary responsibilities include management of the Board's construction program, which includes rail extensions, bus facilities, and other transit related projects. He is responsible for the development, budget, and schedule of the construction program, and has managed the construction and construction management of seven major LRT projects. William serves as the SANDAG Construction Engineer and Interim LOSSAN Corridor Director, he is also the Chair for the San Diego Regional Procurement Committee, which is composed of members of several public agencies throughout San Diego County. The committee’s focus is to coordinate the bidding of major infrastructure projects within the region, discuss market issues and material shortages, and share ideas for improving public agency procurement processes.

Armando Garcia, P.E., has spent his entire 19-year career in the transportation field with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans).

His career started in the Design Division where he worked on State Route 125 and the expansion of the Interstate 5/I-805 merge.
He then moved on to the Construction Division where he became a construction manager on many of the state's seismic retrofit projects and later highways SR-125 and SR-56.
After nine years in Construction he moved to Advanced Planning where he worked closely with the San Diego Association of Governments and initiated some of San Diego's largest highway projects.
He then moved on to the Construction Management Division and was responsible for approximately 60 construction contracts worth more than $1.2 billion.

He recently moved to the Maintenance Division where as Deputy District Director, he is responsible for all the maintenance operations in San Diego and Imperial counties and oversees the work of more than 400 employees.

Mr. Garcia has a civil engineering degree from San Diego State University.

Mark Claussen has 28 years of progressive field, supervisory, and executive responsibility in customer-oriented facilities management, building construction, and infrastructure development organizations. Mr. Claussen is currently leading PinnacleOne’s team providing overall program and construction management services for Poway (California) Unified School District’s $340 million bond program. Mr. Claussen provided recommendations for accelerating the schedule for project completion by six years, thereby reducing the impact of construction inflation, saving taxpayers close to $21 million. Prior to joining PinnacleOne, he previously served as director of Architecture and Engineering for the County of San Diego and completed 21 years in the Navy Civil Engineer Corps.

Jim Gillie graduated from Penn State with a Bachelor’s Degree in Architectural Engineering in 1978. He began working with Blake Construction, Inc. as an estimator and was the Vice President of West Coast Operations when he left in 2000. Since then he has been the Sr. Director of Construction Services at the University of California, San Diego.

Jim Watts is responsible for updating SDUSD’s Long-Range Facilities Master Plan which formed the basis for Proposition S, a 2.1 billion dollar bond measure for SDUSD that was approved in November 2008. Proposition S will provide new educational technology and repair, renovate and modernize 181 educational facilities in the district over the next decade. During Jim’s 20-year tenure with the district, he has worked on four major bond measures and currently oversees the district’s facilities planning, environmental planning and state facilities funding operations.

Debbie Murray is the Coordinator of Program Planning for the Grossmont Union High School District and has worked for the District for the past 10 years.
Debbie has over 18 years of experience in the construction field. She began her work in construction when she joined a family construction firm in December 1991. She served as an officer of the board of the construction firm and focused on fiscal controls and project management. In her current position, Debbie recently developed the broad Program Plan for the newly passed Proposition U bond and finalized the planning, budgeting, and phasing associated with this plan. In addition she generated the Educational Specifications needed as the basis of design for these projects.

Chris Rowe
Echo Pacific
Associated General Contractors (AGC)
Public Building Liaison Committee Chair

Doug Urbick
Hazard

The Secret to Building Relationships with Public Agencies Room 204B

Session: 2:00 p.m.- 3:15 p.m.

Hear from Public Agency Consortium (PAC) representatives on steps you can take to successfully connect your firm with government procurement needs and grow your business effectively in the public sector realm. PAC consists of local San Diego public agencies who want to increase bidding opportunities for small businesses and the firms they partner with in pursuing government work. Since 2003, PAC has collaborated to help streamline procurement processes and provide outreach and training on how to do business with each of these 12 agencies: Caltrans, the City of San Diego, the County of San Diego, the Centre City Development Corporation, the San Diego Contracting Opportunities Center, the Port of San Diego, the San Diego Association of Governments, the San Diego Community College District, the San Diego Housing Commission, the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority, and the San Diego County Water Authority.

Moderator:
John Arena is the Business Outreach Program Manager at the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (Metropolitan), the region's major water importer and wholesaler.
John manages the Regional/Small Business Program and is responsible for reviewing $500 million annually in contracting activity in an effort to maximize business opportunities for regional and small businesses in the six counties of Southern California. As manager of the Regional/Small Business Program for Metropolitan, John and staff provide the outreach to regional and small businesses in the six-county service area of southern California. John graduated from California State University Long Beach with a Masters in Public Administration.

Jaime Quintero has been with the airport for over 5 years. Jaime is committed to the growth of the San Diego region and ensuring that local small, historically underutilized, and disabled veteran businesses have every opportunity to do business with the Airport. In his current role he is responsible for conducting outreach and providing development services for contracting, professional services, and procurement opportunities at San Diego International Airport. In his previous employment, Jaime worked for the San Diego Workforce Partnership for over 5 years. The San Diego Workforce Partnership's primary role is to advance the skills of the region's workforce through workforce solutions using public and private partnerships. Jaime is a native San Diegan and earned his BA degree in Public Administration from San Diego State University.

La Sonja Boulware has been with the State of California for 19.5 years, 9.5 of which have been with Caltrans. La Sonja began the first five years of her tenure providing administrative support to Project Delivery (Project Management, Construction, Right of Way and Land Surveys, Engineering Services, Design and Environmental).
The latter half of her career has been working as a Senior Civil Rights Investigator; and in her current role as Manager of Business Services (Reprographics, Mail Center, Central Files and Graphic Design) and Small Business for Caltrans District 11 serving San Diego and Imperial Counties. Prior to coming to District 11, La Sonja was very active in the small business community in the city of Sacramento. She has a passion for seeing small business' reach their full potential, and chose this career path to contribute toward increased small business participation on public works contracts.

Jackie Carmona, is a Senior Purchasing Management Analyst with the San Diego County Water Authority. Prior to joining the Purchasing Department, Jackie held Analyst positions with the Small Contractor Outreach and Opportunities Program (SCOOP) and the Colorado River Program, as well as serving as a Contracting Technician with the Engineering Department. Jackie holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of San Diego.

Marco Tello, is the Senior Equal Opportunity Analyst with the Unified Port of San Diego's Procurement Services Department.  Marco is responsible for conducting outreach to the small business community, labor compliance, and monitoring small business participation on the Port's contracts and procurements.  Prior to joining EOM, Marco served as a Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning technician with the Port's General Services Department.

Winston McColl, directs all aspects of purchasing, contracting, accounting, property disposal, and records management for the County of San Diego’s $5 billion active contracts portfolio.  Under his direction, the Department recently received its eighth Achievement of Excellence in Procurement from the National Purchasing Institute and the Institute for Supply Management.

Winston has held prior executive positions with Fluor Daniel, OHM Remediation, CARE, an international non profit organization, and was the State Procurement Administrator for the State of Georgia, responsible for the State’s entire purchasing and contracting activities.

He is a retired Colonel from the United States Army, Army Acquisition Corps, and was the Commander, Defense Contract Management Area Operation, Van Nuys.  He is a decorated Vietnam veteran and the recipient of four Bronze Stars and the Combat Infantryman’s Badge (CIB).  Winston holds a BSFS from Georgetown University, School of Foreign Service, and an MBA from the University of Santa Clara.

Launch of the State of California's New e-Procurement System Room 206

Session: 2:00 p.m.- 3:15 p.m.

State of California agencies strive to award 25% of their annual contract dollars to certified Small Businesses and 3% to certified Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises, with a 5% bid preference to these firms in the formal bid process. You will learn how to participate in the State's new e-Procurement System, designed to facilitate your involvement and ability to compete for these contract dollars. Attend this session to discover the many different business opportunities available to you!

Danetta Jackson was recently hired as the Manager of the California Department of General Services Communication and Outreach Branch for the Procurement Division on January 29, 2008. She also serves as the Department’s Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Advocate. In these capacities, Danetta and her staff work to make certain that Small and DVBE businesses get access to their share of state awarded contracts. In addition, Danetta is in charge of forging strategic collaborations, which benefit Small businesses and DVBEs, with government agencies at the local, statewide and federal levels.

Danetta has over 18 years experience working in State Government in the areas of Training, Outreach and Advocacy. She is a graduate of California State University, Sacramento.

Michael Aguillio has over 17 years of experience within State Government. He has also worked in the federal & private sector. His State services includes, warehouse manager for Department of Developmental Services, Senior buyer for the Energy Commission, Cal-Fire Small Business (SB) and Disable Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Program administrator, and Contract administrator specializing in fuel acquisitions for Department of General Services (DGS). Michael now represents DGS as a customer liaison in the Communication and Outreach Unit. He is a dedicated advocate who is committed to help SB’s and DVBE’s find contracting opportunity with the State of California.