The Power of a Simple Introduction

Networking is one of the most valuable experiences at AACE International’s Conference & Expo—and sometimes, a single conversation can lead to opportunities you never expected.

Meet Rachel Fleming & Albert Brier

Rachel Fleming, Project Manager at MBP, and Albert Brier, Director of Project Controls at Dokainish & Company, met after he attended her presentation at the 2025 Conference & Expo in Anaheim. They connected to continue discussing program risk analysis and contingency management, and what started as a conference conversation quickly evolved into something more. Albert later invited Rachel to join him on a podcast segment, and together they explored the idea of collaborating on a paper.

Following the Conference & Expo, they stayed in touch and began developing an abstract submission. Albert brought one of his colleagues, Roger Bradfield, into the project, and together the trio worked through the research, writing, and review process.

“We’re excited that our collaboration has resulted in a presentation at the 2026 Conference & Expo in Las Vegas,” they shared.

“This year, I’m looking forward to presenting alongside my co-authors and sharing our work with fellow professionals,” added Rachel. “I hope our session sparks new discussions around program risk analysis and contingency management, inspires future papers, and contributes to the advancement of industry best practices.”

With the presentation of their collaboration on the horizon, Rachel and Albert share their experience and advice for others attending the 2026 Conference & Expo, in hopes that attendees take advantage of the networking opportunities before them.

They share, “Our advice for anyone attending this year: make time to network. Introduce yourself to someone new, reconnect with colleagues, and engage in conversations beyond the sessions. You never know where those connections might lead. A discussion over coffee, a question after a presentation, or a chance meeting in the hallway could become your next collaboration, professional opportunity, or even a future conference presentation.”

Join AACE, Rachel, and Albert in Las Vegas and experience the power of connecting with peers from across the industry.

Register today and start building the relationships that can shape your future.

Online registration closes June 21.