Infrastructure Summit Theme: Advancing Infrastructure Resiliency Through Digital Transformation

Omar Habib, Co-founder and Digital Delivery expert at WiiGroup, is a visionary leader propelled by an unwavering passion for Construction Innovation and Project Controls. His expertise lies in guiding companies through the seamless implementation of digital construction and the development of intelligent reporting systems. With a notable career spanning Europe, the UK, and the Middle East, Omar has delivered consultancy services to major multinational corporations in commercial, residential, and infrastructure sectors. A dedicated advocate for knowledge sharing, he has contributed as a lecturer for the International Master's Degree in BIM Management, enriching the next generation of industry professionals.

Amr has over 17 years of experience combining architectural, construction, and engineering expertise and is an industry-leading technology expert. As Chief Innovation Officer, he leverages the most cutting-edge technologies such as BIM, laser scanning, drone mapping, virtual and mixed reality, digital fabrication, and 3D printing to streamline the construction process for our clients and project teams. Amr has published multiple articles on construction innovation and is a regular presenter at technology conferences throughout the country. He holds a Master's of Architecture degree from Boston Architectural College and was recently recognized as the Autodesk AEC Innovator of the Year. A fun fact about Amr is that he earned his black belt in karate when he was 16 years old. In his free time, Amr enjoys traveling to historic places with his family. He currently lives with his wife and two young daughters in the Boston area.

Vaidas Ulenskas is a GIS Team Leader at RB Rail AS. He graduated from Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (Vilnius Tech) in 2011 with M.Sc. degree in Civil Engineering. Vaidas joined Rail Baltica in 2019 meeting the new challenge - to lead GIS developments in the largest greenfield high speed rail transport infrastructure megaproject in Baltic states. Within 4 years, he assembled the solid GIS team, while the role of GIS in the project has changed dramatically - it turned into main source of information and the backbone of the currently developing Rail Baltica Digital Twin.

Tobias believes in market-based solutions for global sustainability and has built a career by analyzing environmental data that can solve real-world problems. He co-founded Teren to cultivate a company culture and mission to transform data into solutions that create a safer and more sustainable planet.

Bonny is a geospatial analyst and self described human geographer and social anthropologist primarily focused on the impact of the built infrastructure on global health outcomes. Exploring geographic properties that capture complex interactions, dynamic shifts in ecosystem balance and how activities influence eco-geomorphic conceptual frameworks across a wide variety of environments are the topics of popular public talks and panel discussions.

Deeper insights begin by accessing open-source tools like QGIS, PostgreSQL, and Python. As a sought after speaker, Bonny introduces the framework for learning to apply advanced data analytics, including data engineering and geo-enrichment, to big global questions and potential pathways to solution building.

Often we learn skills like coding in a particular language or enterprise solutions but are unable to bridge the gap between fundamental didactic awareness, and application of our newly acquired knowledge or frameworks. My goal is to help provide the base with a little more context, real world datasets and guidance to launch a new and independent beginning to your geospatial and open source journey.

Bonny is the author of the books Python for Geospatial Data Analysis: Theory, Tools, and Practice for Location Intelligence (publisher, O'Reilly Media) and Geospatial Analysis with SQL: A hands on guide to performing geospatial analysis by unlocking the syntax of spatial SQL published by Packt Press. Current projects include a new book in progress with Locate Press, Geospatial Data Science & the Art of Storytelling.

Helen Pickard is the Group GIS Leader for Mott MacDonald based in the UK. Helen has 19 years of experience in applying GIS technology and adding the environmental context to infrastructure Projects worldwide; conscious of balancing development needs with a sustainable future through the use of Geospatial data and technology.

Helen is responsible for the strategic leadership of GIS to meet the business needs of the client sectors Mott MacDonald service. In her role she leads the GIS community of around 800 colleagues consisting of specialist consultants and users encouraging knowledge sharing and coordination to deliver GIS services.

Elly Perets is a dynamic CEO and executive leader with a stellar track record in enterprise software sales, marketing, and business development across diverse industries. A seasoned team builder, Elly excels in startup environments, driving cultural change, and fostering international operations. With expertise in software, SaaS, capital equipment, and fundraising, Elly is a visionary strategist. Known for establishing global sales forces, alliances, and partnerships, Elly is a developer and executor of go-to-market business models and pricing strategies. Their unique knowledge spans retail, finance, manufacturing, education, pharma, and more, coupled with a talent for translating customer needs into innovative solutions.

Gerben Tiemens, Solution Architect Asset Information at Schiphol Group. My background is a Master (MSc) in Geospatial information at Wageningen University. I worked as a consultant and it-architect at a lot of Dutch organizations, local government, water and ministry on GIS infrastructure for administering their assets. Currently I am working at Schiphol Airport, with the systems for administering, using and analysing Asset data. These systems include technologies like Linked Data, BIM, Geospatial and document management. We are working on an integrated assetinformation lifecycle system for handling assetdata from contractor to administration and connecting it to Event-driven data and incident/workorder based data.

16+ years of global experience in BIM Consulting, Program, Design & Management of AEC / EPC / ER & UTL projects, Virtual Design & Construction, Digital Engineering and Sustainable Design & Development

Asmaa is a BIM Coordinator at Span Construction and responsible for several big projects in Dubai. She carries a solid experience and knowledge in the field of BIM. She excels in several BIM skills such as BIM Modeling, BIM Coordination, Generative BIM (using Dynamo & Project Refinery), and BIM Project Management, which has shaped her career path. She believes in Digitization and started to implement AI with her company.

Asmaa is also, PMP, BRE BIM Level 2 Information Management, and BRE ISO19650 certified.

Wajdi is a highly accomplished Architect with 18 years of extensive experience in the AEC digitalization, Assets Management, and BIM, with an exceptional high influence and interaction from an employer perspective, a Policy Maker, who is driving and regulating full lifecycle digital transformation in strategic multi-billion projects, he is recognized for innovation and achievement awards, such as the Innovator of the Year Award - AEC Excellence Awards 2020 - Las Vegas & the Individual Achievement Award of the Institute of Asset Management (IAM) Global Awards 2019 - London. Currently spearheading at one of the most reputable governmental entities in UAE, Miral LLC, successfully implementing Digital Twin, Common Data Environment, & BIM in multi-billion strategic projects, and he is holding multiple distinguished academic qualifications.

BIM Manager, ARB Architect and developing Data Scientist, always striving to find the best way to achieve the right goals. She was introduced to BIM through the first BIM project - Samson Pavilion - of the top UK architecture office - Foster + Partners. After a number of UK and international projects, she eventually shifted from tech-savvy architect to a BIM Manager role, her present position at Lendlease in London. Cristina is currently part of the Digital Engineering team and the Construction division, where she supports the digital delivery of construction projects but also leads initiatives to set standards, streamline processes and reduce risks through digitisation. Her current training as a data analyst has allowed her to extend the reach of these endeavours through the tools for a data-driven approach, but always aware of the key role that people play in generating change - with onboarding, training, and Health & Safety as a top focus. Cristina has a track record as a mentor and speaker in multiple industry events in the UK and internationally such as London Build, Digital Construction Week, AMI International, AIA Emerging Professionals, and judging for New Civil Engineer Techfest Awards and Digital Construction Awards.

Abdelrahman has 15 years of diverse digital construction experience (Steel Fabrication, Software Provider, Design, Environment/Energy, & Construction/handover) with 2 Masters's degrees and one scientific publication. Besides, he has strong experience in Computational Design, 4D, and Laser Scanning.

He was responsible for Dubai airports, DXB & AMI (40bn$) (Program BIM management) and was leading the digital transformation initiative & ISO 19650 certification prep at Dar. He is currently BIM Manager for the DGDA 1 portfolio in KSA. He is also an Advisory Council Member at the UAE Society of Engineers, Digital Engineering Chapter.

Abdelrahman has strong knowledge in AI/ML, Blockchain, Digital Platforms, etc. He obtained his Executive Certificate in Innovation & Strategy from MIT Sloan. He holds also several MIT certificates in Digital Business, Neuroscience for Business, Digital Platforms, Breakthrough CX Strategy, Design Thinking & Algorithmic Business Thinking.

Abdelrahman has also development and programming skills (Python, Django, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, ReactJS, & React Native) & holds PMP, LEED, RICS, & BRE certificates.

Dr. Michael Marriott, a seasoned professional with over 15 years of expertise in policy, planning, project management, design, and research, holds a PhD in urban studies. His extensive experience ranges from national-level urban policy analysis to community development programs in informal settlements. Michael's skills extend to master planning, urban design, and detailed planning of public spaces globally. With a diverse background spanning public and private sectors, he brings a wealth of knowledge to progressive organizations tackling urban challenges worldwide. Michael is eager to collaborate on innovative projects and welcomes discussions with like-minded individuals in the realms of startups and research initiatives.

Ahmed Aboualfa, a seasoned digital innovator and strategist, boasts over 13 years of experience leveraging data for actionable insights in billion-dollar organizations. Currently serving as the Head of Digital Delivery and Innovation at Diriyah Company, overseeing a nearly $60 billion historical and heritage project, Ahmed plays a central role in shaping digital strategy and business intelligence. With an architectural background and an MBA in strategic management, coupled with postgraduate qualifications from esteemed institutions, he brings a unique blend of technical and managerial acumen to his leadership. As a founder of the first BIM Association in the UAE and the Middle East, Ahmed actively contributes to the discourse on digital transformation. His commitment is further evident through being a finalist for the Engineer of the Year award, emphasizing his impactful role in the industry.

Severin Alton, Head of IT at Rubner Group, is a seasoned professional with a proven track record in digitalization and technology integration. Severin has a lot of expertise to offer, with a background in Information Systems and a lot of experience in IT consulting, manufacturing and construction.

For the past four years, Severin has led a dynamic team of 30 IT professionals at Rubner Group, driving digitalization efforts and implementing innovative solutions. His expertise lies in leveraging technology to streamline processes and enhance efficiency, particularly within sales, production, and supply chain management.

Severin has a skill for making complex ideas understandable and useful, and his presentations captivate audiences with information and motivation, preparing them to welcome the impact of technology in their own fields.

Antonio Mendes is a thought leader in the digital construction industry, driving innovation and pushing boundaries with his expertise in reality capture technology. As the Mobile Mapping Systems (MMS) Solutions Manager at Leica Geosystems, Antonio has spent more than two decades perfecting his his skills in geospatial engineering.

Antonio's wealth of experience as a Geomatic Engineer gives him a deep understanding of the industry, enabling him to specialise in mobile mapping systems since its inception in 2011. His work has played a significant role in the evolution of the mobile mapping industry.

Antonio is passionate about guiding new and established professionals towards the next revolution in mobile mapping. His vision and leadership have helped countless individuals reach new heights in their careers, and his impact on the industry is immeasurable. As a thought leader, Antonio Mendes is an inspiration to all those striving to push the boundaries of what is possible in the digital construction world.

Dr Marianna Kopsida works for Trimble as Market Development Manager for the Field Systems sector. Her professional background is centered on digital-based workflows, with a keen interest in Augmented Reality, Digital Construction, Connected workflows and Digital Twins. Prior to joining Trimble, Marianna studied civil engineering at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece before completing her PhD in Engineering at the University of Cambridge, UK. Her PhD research was focused on the automation of progress monitoring inspections using Mixed Reality. Part of her research was conducted at the Intelligent Vision and Automation Laboratory, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta.

I have over 20 years of experiences in underground infrastructure development including metro lines, cable tunnels, caverns and utilities. The involvement in various roles within the underground works industry have provided an understanding of its dynamics and complexities. Currently, I am dedicated to the advancement of underground detection and mapping technologies, with a keen focus on driving safety, efficiency, and sustainability initiatives.

Experienced BIM Specialist with a passion for data analytics, Python programming, and the implementation of cutting-edge technologies like ChatGPT and BingChat. Over the past 10 years, I have honed my expertise in the field of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and witnessed firsthand the transformative power of data-driven solutions.

He firmly believe that the true potential of BIM lies in its correct application and utilization of data. By leveraging advanced analytics techniques, He strive to extract valuable insights from BIM data, enabling informed decision-making and optimized project outcomes. His proficiency in Python programming empowers me to develop custom tools and scripts to streamline BIM workflows and enhance productivity.

In addition to his BIM background, He has developed a keen interest in water engineering, particularly within the context of overcoming future water crises. Currently pursuing his studies in TalTech's Water System and Sewer Engineering program, he is eager to explore how the convergence of BIM, AI, and water engineering can play a pivotal role in tackling these challenges.

Chris Bruntlett is International Relations Manager at the Dutch Cycling Embassy, a public-private partnership that represents the best knowledge, experience, and experts from the Netherlands. As a long-time campaigner in Vancouver, he fell in love with Dutch bike culture in 2016, inspiring him to author the book, "Building the Cycling City: The Dutch Blueprint for Urban Vitality". Chris uses his knowledge and passion to share lessons for global cities wishing to follow their footsteps, and become better places to live, work, and of course cycle. His latest book is "Curbing Traffic: The Human Case for Fewer Cars in our Lives".

Jan Egbertsen (1964) has studied management and logistics at the University of Twente in The Netherland. He works for Port of Amsterdam as Manager Strategy and Innovation. He has worked for Port of Amsterdam as Strategic Advisor, Deputy Director Marketing and Advisor for the Board. At the moment he is active in digital strategy, energy transition, transport strategy and clean shipping.

With over 20 years of experience in Telecommunications, Consumer Electronics, Automotive and Public affairs, Josette holds a long track record of various positions in Transition Management, Product Management, Engineering, Project Management and Finance. Currently in her role of Team Manager at the City of Amsterdam she leads a team of Policy Officers responsible for communication (education), stimulation (subsidies) facilitation (public charging infrastructure) and regulation (environmental and zero-emission zones) to transition all kinds of fossil transportation in Amsterdam to zero-emission transportation. Josette is interested in mobility, tech, sustainability,, agile, education, strategy and coaching.

Dr. Rimali Mitra, a dedicated GIS Modeller at Connected Places Catapult, holds a PhD in deep learning applications in flood/tsunami modeling and GIS in Earth Science from Kyoto University, Japan. With over 6 years of hands-on experience in spatial data analysis across academia and industry, Rimali has become a recognized expert. Their contributions extend to publishing research papers in esteemed peer-reviewed Q1 scientific journals. Proficient in Python, SQL, and machine learning applications, Rimali is deeply passionate about technology, innovation, and tackling complex problem-solving tasks. Their interdisciplinary and collaborative research approach positions them as a valuable asset, contributing to the strengthening of both scientific and industrial communities.

Kris De Meester has a solid background in sales and business development, primarily in high-tech and engineering companies. Kris is currently the Vice President of Sales and Business Development at XENOMATIX, where they focus on developing vision solutions for automotive applications. Prior to this role, they served as the Country Manager at XYLEM WATER SOLUTIONS BELGIUM, where they were responsible for strategic planning, sales operations, and market analysis. Kris also served as the Managing Director at ECHO ENGINEERING, spearheading commercialization, sales growth, and business development. Kris has a wide range of experience in various leadership roles, including Manager Eneria Business Unit & Engineering Manager at BERGERAT MONNOYEUR BELGIUM and Consulting Engineer & Sales Executive at SIEMENS INDUSTRY SOFTWARE. In these positions, they played instrumental roles in revenue growth, market share increases, efficiency improvement, and strategic partnerships.

Kris De Meester obtained a Master's degree in Industrial Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology from 1991 to 1992. Before that, they pursued a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering at KU Leuven from 1985 to 1990.

Guilherme pioneers the conceptualization and development of geospatial indicators for more comprehensive measurement of progress on the United Nations SDGs. In 2022-2023, he crafted indicators for urban accessibility (SDG11) and rural road access (SDG9), featured in the Sustainable Development Report co-authored with Prof. Jeffrey Sachs. This work garnered major media coverage in outlets such as Nature Sustainability, Associated Press, Nikkei, and El Pais.

Mr. Christian Veldhuis has a background in GIS and has been working on the development of the 3D city model and the Digital Twin of Rotterdam for more than 10 years. With a preference for putting theory into practice, he tries to bridge the gap between vision and practice, technology and people.

He works at the department of GEO-information within the public works department of the municipality of Rotterdam. In order to carry out the development and management of the city in a future-proof manner, the Digital Twin plays an increasingly important role and this technology must be combined with processes and people to become successful.

As an senior advisor, he works on bringing together different disciplines and processes in the digital twin so that we work together on the city of tomorrow. Developments that are currently being worked on include conducting analyzes and simulations of the current and future city, automated granting of permits and an improved way of communicating with the city's residents.

Anthony leads our Global Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Digital Twin development and deployment. With over 17 years' experience, his role improves business efficiencies and revenue generation. Anthony also manages our Cities Computational Engineering Programme. Anthony's expertise lie in digital twin and geospatial consulting services and solutions delivery to clients around the world. He enables smart and digital cities with geospatial data and information modelling management within the AEC industry, railway engineering, asset information management, local authority governance, urban / spatial planning, physical asset management, and disaster risk reduction and management for city resilience.

Anthony is an experienced leader, team manager and visionary who specialises in: programme and project management, digital asset information management, spatial data, systems integration, digital twin data standards, methods and procedures, enterprise spatial data infrastructure, semantic 3D web mapping, virtual cities, data science and geospatial data analytics, relationship building and stakeholder engagement.

Prior to joining Buro Happold, Anthony worked in various capacities as a Senior Engineering Leader (Digital Engineering). He was the GIS Programme Manager for the Transport for London Rail and Underground Engineering Information Directorate, and the GIS Technical Manager and GIS Development Officer for the London Borough of Hackney. Anthony was previously Head of Geospatial Data and Information for MapAction (voluntary capacity) - an international disaster mapping organisation.

Experienced GIS and GeoICT Business Manager with more than 25 years of professional experience in the field of GIS and spatial data.

Project Manager of GIS- and GeoICT projects dealing with geodata management, implementation of geographical software applications and integration of geodata within organizational processes.

Senior GIS- and GeoICT consultant with knowledge on the implementation of spatial data infrastructures based on OGC standards and INSPIRE principles on local and regional level, based on commercial and open source GEO software.

Hesham, a Digital Twin expert and Spatial Computing innovator, holds a Master's degree in Engineering. As a Certified BIM professional and Industry Leader at Esri SA, he brings over a decade of experience in digitalizing the AEC sector. Specializing in leading complex digital twin systems worldwide, Hesham integrates GIS, BIM, and more for mega projects.

As the Director of Sales and Business Development - North America at GeoSolutions, I lead a team of professionals who provide enterprise IT, security, software, and service solutions for clients in the GIS industry and beyond. With over 20 years of experience in technical sales, channel management, business development, and marketing, I have a proven track record of increasing company revenue, expanding market base, and growing customer loyalty.

I am a strategic professional specialized in sustainable urban development, governance and infrastructure with more than 10 years of experience in the public and private sectors. Examples of my work include the operational, financial and innovation management of local and national urban development and infrastructure programs and policies. My passion is creating public value for global prosperity by working hand in hand with communities and their ecosystems.

Dr. Mani Dhingra is a prominent urban researcher, sustainability advocate, and social scientist with over a decade of experience. Passionate about fostering inclusive, sustainable, and smart urban futures, he specializes in strategic policymaking, decision support systems, and bridging academia-industry gaps. With expertise in urban sustainability, climate change, disaster resilience, and smart cities, Dr. Dhingra actively contributes to shaping resilient, socially inclusive urban environments. His commitment to merging theoretical insights with practical solutions positions him as a transformative force in the pursuit of a better urban future.

With a MSc in Surveying and Mapping and a MBA in Entrepreneurship and Leadership, Matthieu is Head of Sales & Business Development for Wingtra in Europe. He focuses on expanding Wingtra's activities in the region and helping users succeed on their drone mapping projects by leveraging Wingtra's leading-edge drone products to quickly and accurately map large areas.

Phil has 30+years experience as a London-based Urban Planner and Designer and has worked for Broadway Malyan since 2002, focusing on its International projects such as regional and city scale urban planning strategies, development frameworks, master plans, design guides, urban codes and cultural heritage projects including statutory planning policy documents. His work extends to projects in Europe, Middle East, India, South East Asia, North & South America, North and Sub-Saharan Africa.

Phil applies evidence-based approach through incisive analysis to support innovative yet pragmatic value-generating solutions that operate at both local and wider holistic levels. He aims to optimise place value and social benefits while identifying revenue streams for public and private investment returns that result in sustainable outcomes with long-term resilience. He supports transit oriented development (TOD), the introduction of smart environmentally attuned systems devised through stakeholder participation articulating graphic messaging to attract support.