CALL FOR PAPERS FOR 2026
We are again accepting proposals to present for our LIVE 2026 Conference
A majority of Sessions are reserved for CPM and Project Management Theory, Software Tutorials and Demonstrations, and other invited Speakers. A limited number of Sessions are available for Consultants to teach innovative means and methods and for software vendors to demonstrate new or improved products. A limited number of Project Showcase Sessions are also available. Members of the construction community are invited to submit abstracts describing how YOUR project delivery was improved by superior CPM scheduling and project controls. To apply for these available sessions, please prepare an Abstract (of 50 words or less to explain your topic to our attendees reading this page) and email to info@constructioncpm.com with subject "ABSTRACT".
Monday, 8:00 AM to 9:15 AM -- 75 minute session -- main auditorium
MON00 - Welcome by Fred Plotnick --
and Opening Keynote Session by Dan Patterson
The Physics of Project Management: Why Scheduling Hasn’t Changed But Everything Else Has.
How Three Decades of Tools Led Us to the Era of Adaptive, AI-Driven Planning
Monday, 9:45 AM to 11:00 AM -- 75 minute session
MON11 - Theory to Practice Keynote - Panel Discussion - Engaging the Next Generation of Schedulers
Is scheduling becoming obsolete—or is it entering a powerful new era? As AI-driven planning, advanced data management, and rapidly changing project
environments reshape our industry, the role of planning and scheduling professionals is evolving faster than ever. This session explores how technology
is transforming the discipline and why the demand for skilled, adaptable planners is growing—not shrinking. Join representatives from Nodes & Links /
Beyond Deadlines Podcast, Planera, and SmartPM for a forward-looking discussion on how organizations can attract, develop, and empower the next
generation of planning and scheduling leaders.
MON12 - What's New in P6 and Oracle Primavera Cloud (OPC)
Come learn about all of the major new enhancements for both Primavera P6 EPPM and Oracle Primavera Cloud that were released in 2024.
Presented by Chad Wattendorf, Global Product Strategy Director
MON13 - Mastering Out-of-Sequence Progress
Identifying out-of-sequence progress in the real-world can be the key to understanding disruption and productivity loss. This is a current CPM ”hot topic”. Now
significant, new information and unusual situations involving out-of-sequence progress have recently been discovered. Last year, better out-of-sequence progress
reporting using P6 software was introduced. This year learn how to add out-of-sequence progress reporting to Microsoft Project. The instructions included here are
all that is needed to add this feature to any MS Project software (and for free)!
MON14 - Greg Hall Upon "How Does the End Date Mysteriously Stay the Same Every Month?"
Effective Follow Up Of Windows Analysis Observations
Monday, 11:10 AM to 12:25 PM -- 75 minute session
MON21 - Real World Project Modeling in Aurora
that Supports Relationship Diagraming Method (RDM) & Relationship Diagramming Critical Path Method (RDCPM®) Functionality
The Relationship Diagraming Method (RDM) & Relationship Diagramming Critical Path Method (RDCPM®) both developed by Fredric L. Plotnick, PhD., Esq., P.E., introduces
many powerful concepts that should, if available in project management software, benefit the transparency and throughput of projects. However, most of the concepts
developed are not yet available in virtually all project management software. In this presentation we review and describe the power and benefits of some of the RDM/RDCPM®
concepts that are available in the Aurora intelligent scheduling and project management software. Aurora’s real-world modeling capabilities have been created due to real-world
needs and were only developed when clients realized the benefits of the functionality and were willing to put their own funds into developing the functionality. The capabilities
in Aurora are all based on real-world demands and have resulted in real-world benefits to Aurora users. This presentation will show some of the benefits of these concepts and
issues that arise when they are not available. Presented by Rob Richards, PhD.
MON22 - Schedule Development Using P6 Professional Download to 1st Report
This session will lead attendees from download of Primavera P6 software from Oracle's website to delivery of the first report to management of the Contractor and
the Owner. This session is taught by two veteran users of P6™, Hannah Schumacher, Scheduling Manager, Sundt Construction Inc.
www.sundt.com and Charlie Jackson, Vice President of Project Life Span, LLC.
Many Contract Documents are now requiring the use of the latest version of Primavera software (P6™) due to its enterprise capabilities and its use of latest
technologies including the capabilities to interact other software applications; therefore it is important for the Scheduler to understand how to use this
software most efficiently in their battle to complete their projects in a timely manner.
MON23 - Building a Baseline-Quality Bid Schedule from the Ground Up: Bluebeam → ASTA → ALICE
This presentation walks through a practical workflow for building a baseline-quality bid schedule from the ground up. The process begins with a quantity takeoff in
Bluebeam, using PDF markups to identify scope and quantify the work. The schedule is then developed in ASTA (Powerproject) and organized into phase-based fragnets
that can be directly cross-referenced to the Bluebeam markups, making the schedule easier to review, explain, and audit. After the ASTA schedule is complete, ALICE is
used as an independent check to help determine whether project duration may be overly optimistic under defined crew limits. ALICE is then run to generate an optimized
solution using the same constraints, and its results are compared to the original plan. Attendees will see how this combined approach can strengthen bid-time confidence
and provide a structured way to compare traditional schedule development with AI-driven optimization..Presented by Will Thamrin
MON24 - AI Meets CPM: Modern Scheduling for Improved Project Outcomes
Planera is a modern CPM platform built for today’s construction teams, now supercharged with AI. Our AI capabilities enhance an already powerful CPM engine, helping project
teams quickly analyze and assess schedules, while freeing expert schedulers to focus on what truly matters: solving problems, managing risk, and driving project success.
Monday, 2:00 PM to 3:15 PM -- 75 minute session
MON31 - The Peer Review Process for Planning&Scheduling Knowledge
OR: Where do I find reliable information on scheduling, and how do I know it is reliable?
AACE International’s Recommended Practices (RPs) establish the technical foundation of our body of knowledge. RPs undergo a rigorous review process
throughout their development. John Orr, liaison between the Planning & Scheduling technical subcommittee and the AACE Technical Board, will present
an overview of this peer-review process for developing RPs. He will also provide current examples of items under review and invite discussion to keep
you awake on a Monday after a great lunch.
MON32 - Schedule Updating Using P6 Professional NTP to 1st Update Report
This session will lead attendees in the proper use of Oracle Primavera P6 EPPM from Notice-to-Proceed (or acceptance of the initial baseline schedule)
to delivery of the first update report to management of the Contractor and the Owner. This session is taught by two veteran users of P6™,
Hannah Schumacher, Sundt Construction Inc. www.sundt.com and
Charlie Jackson, Vice President of Project Life Span, LLC.
Many Contract Documents are now requiring the use of the latest version of Primavera software (P6™) due to its enterprise capabilities and its use of latest
technologies including the capabilities to interact other software applications; therefore it is important for the Scheduler to understand how to use this
software most efficiently in their battle to complete their projects in a timely manner.
MON33 - Risk for the Rest of Us: Deliver Excellent Risk Briefings without a PhD!
A Schedule or Cost Risk Assessment can be an intimidating exercise... but it does not have to be! This session will help to demystify Risk inputs and reporting
for all levels of experience. We will discuss the best methods of gathering inputs, including one vital prerequisite. Further, we will examine risk assessments
in the session and gain consensus on the likely conclusions, ultimately equipping the group to be able to perform these functions in Acumen Risk while empowering
analysts to brief their team using their own unique style.
MON34 - From Chaos to Control: The 8 KPIs Transforming Project Schedules Forever
Discover how eight transformative Key Performance Indicators—such as Schedule Quality, Finish Variance,
Critical Path Progress, Execution—can shift your project timelines from unpredictable disarray to precise,
proactive mastery. Attendees will gain actionable insights into implementing these metrics to forecast delays,
optimize efficiency, and improve on-time delivery, ultimately revolutionizing confidence in every scheduled
endeavor. Presented by John Jackson.
Monday, 3:35 PM to 4:50 PM -- 75 minute session
MON41 - Panel Discussion: Preparing Tomorrow’s Schedulers Oklahoma State University
Preparing tomorrow’s schedulers requires closer alignment between university courses and real project demands. This roundtable invites contractors, schedulers,
and owners to discuss how CPM and project controls are actually used in the field, what entry-level staff do well, where they struggle (logic, updating, delay
analysis), and to provide input on what should be covered in an introductory college-level scheduling class so graduates are better prepared to support planning,
updates, and project decision-making.
MON42 - Bringing Organizational Risk Patterns to Light with Portfolio Analytics Using SmartPM
Identifying operational issues that impact company-wide performance is no easy task. This presentation will teach attendees how to leverage schedule data in mass to
identify common project risks that, if understood and corrected, can have a noticeable impact on the bottom line. This session will walk users through a portfolio
analysis of schedule data, revealing patterns in performance that contribute to organizational risk. Join Michael Pink and learn how identifying patterns and trends
at a high- level is the most effective first step when refining schedule management strategies..
MON43 - Secrets of Acumen: Simplify your workflow, Improve your results
Whether you are an advanced Acumen user, or just interested in learning more about how the software works, this session is sure to provide some insights into new
functionality that everyone can take advantage of. Join us for this walkthrough focusing on new and/or lesser-known features that can be used for evaluating project
schedules, preparing them for a risk analysis, and detailed advancements that have been made towards better cost and schedule risk analysis.
MON44 - Carson and Palmer - Top Ten 2026
the latest from our annual tag team.
Tuesday, 8:00 AM to 9:25 AM -- 10 + 75 minute session
TUE00 - Mini-Course by FRED What the Contractor Desires of Project Controls and
TUE01 - Tuesday Keynote - Building a Framework for Change
This keynote explores how construction scheduling can serve as a powerful driver of organizational transformation, using principles from John P. Kotter’s Leading Change.
Attendees will learn how to align people, process, and planning to foster innovation, accelerate adoption, and create lasting cultural change within their organizations.
Presenting will be Rachael Ferrera, Manager of Investments & Ideation, Zachry Corp.
Tuesday, 9:45 AM to 11:00 AM -- 75 minute session
TUE11 - Panel Discussion: Scheduling AI – Where are We Now
Are you curious how today’s AI-powered planning and scheduling tools perform on real-world projects? In this interactive session, attendees will put leading AI
software to the test by posing real questions and challenges based on an actual project schedule. Watch as solutions from ALICE, Nodes & Links, Planera, and
SmartPM respond in real time, demonstrating how their platforms generate insights, support decision-making, and address complex project scenarios. This audience-driven
session offers a practical, side-by-side look at how AI can enhance planning and scheduling in today’s projects.
TUE12 - Really Understanding Microsoft Project
Love it or hate it, Microsoft Project (MSP) CPM scheduling software is here to stay. Many construction contracts are now mandating its use. Most people using MSP
on construction projects find that MSP is fine for planning the work but very difficult to use when maintaining the status and accurately forecasting project completion.
MSP can be made to properly reflect complicated status including out-of-sequence progress resembling Retained Logic. This advanced presentation will explain how to best
use MSP in place of P6 or other more status-oriented scheduling software.
TUE13 - Comparing GAO and DCMA Procedures for Assessing Schedules
The U.S. Government Accountability Office and the DoD Defense Contract Management Agency both conduct health assessments of integrated master schedules. GAO's
best practices and DCMA’s schedule metrics are often compared with one another, but this comparison is usually taken out of context. While the procedures we use
to assess a schedule’s health are fundamentally similar, the purpose, scope, and results of our assessments may differ. In this year’s presentation, we again
compare both agencies’ schedule assessment processes and how the results may affect the organizations under assessment. We also provide an update to GAO's
documentation of schedule reliability assessment procedures.
TUE14 - Litigation Track Keynote by Daniel Lund, III, Esq. of Phelps Dunbar, New Orleans
Contracts: Spreading the Risk & Avoiding Killer Contract Clauses
Are your contracts protecting your company's work—or setting you up for trouble? Discover how to spot risky contract clauses, negotiate smarter terms, and use
contracts as tools for risk management and company protection. Learn industry best practices, so you can focus on innovation—not litigation. Construction
contracts are more than paperwork—they’re the blueprint for risk management, protection of your company, and project success. Don’t let fine print derail your
next project— build your contracts for success!
Tuesday, 11:10 AM to 12:25 PM -- 75 minute session
TUE21 - When CPM meets AI: A New Era of Schedule Optimization & Efficiencies
Come see a live demo of ALICE Technologies and how it is advancing CPM practices with AI based solutions. What if Analysis, schedule visualization, deep analytics
and program optimization just scratch the surface of how you can expand your current practice with technology and we are here to show you how it can be achieved.
TUE22 - Benchmarking As-Built Lags
As-built schedules contain more than dates when an activity actually started and finished – they also contain that same information for relationships. Relationships
have as-built start and finish dates. This gives rise to a different kind of schedule forensic analysis; As-Built Lag Analysis. How well are planned versus actual
relationship lags managed? No one knows because no one measures them. Hundreds of papers have been written about planned versus actual activity durations. How come
no one has thought to measure planned versus actual relationship durations? Now, someone has.
TUE23 - Update Upon the GAO Scheduling Guides
The U.S. Government Accountability Office is responsible to inform Congress of the quality of schedules for various government projects. As part of their effort
to assess schedule quality, GAO has produced TWO Guides that present best practices for Planning and Scheduling. The first, the GAO Schedule Assessment Guide,
identifies 10 best practices for CPM schedules. The second, the GAO Agile Assessment Guide, discusses how to apply those best practices to schedules for Agile
programs. Come join the presentation and discussion relating to these best practices and how they can be applied for programs using Agile development.
TUE24 - Update Upon Comparing Three Softwares Bruce Betz
Comparing Software - Our Shop Needs Folks Trained in 3 or More. In the current environment there are numerous platforms used to create Critical Path Method (CPM) schedules.
Among these are: Primavera P6, Open Plan, Asta, MS Project and a host of others lesser known programs. While these platforms are each capable of useful in creating a
viable CPM schedule, each does so with a degree of uniqueness. With regard to their usefulness in a claims situation, the disparities are even more pronounced. This
presentation shows the similarities, differences, advantages and disadvantages of using these platforms.
Tuesday, 2:00 PM to 3:15 PM -- 75 minute session
TUE31 - Carson City Shootout
A Panel led by Chris Carson
TUE32 - TBD
TUE33 - TBD
TUE34 - Follow the Curve: Forecast/Track Revenue/Cost/Workhours in P6 by Martin Olgren
The CPM Schedule is one of the few Leading Indicators that a project team has access to. How has Zachry utilized the P6 Schedule to Accurately forecast
the Revenue, Cost, and Workhours on our projects? By relating the remaining work items and utilizing the resource modules and excel charting, Zachry has
increased the accuracy of forecasting.
Tuesday, 3:35 PM to 4:50 PM -- 75 minute session
TUE41 - Carson City Shootout - Part 2
TUE42 - Next Level Planning and Scheduling Efficiency - allucent
Over the past seven years, allucent has been on a mission to optimize jobsite scheduling. Join its Co-founder and CEO, Adam Evarts, as he walks through the
core principles of effective schedule creation and management. This dynamic session blends proven best practices with live demonstrations of allucent’s current
capabilities—plus a look at what’s coming next. Topics will include P6 schedule updating within allucent, digital pull planning, weekly work planning,
look-ahead and make-ready planning, constraint tracking, schedule validation, commissioning schedule integration, visual planning, and an exclusive sneak
peek at Takt planning.
TUE43 - TBD
TUE44 - Advanced Scheduling Capabilities Enabled by Modern Technology
Traditional CPM scheduling practices were developed in an era of limited computing power, manual analysis, and disconnected tools. While these methods remain
foundational, they constrain the depth, frequency, and consistency of analysis required by today’s complex projects. This presentation explores how modern
digital technologies expand scheduling capability beyond classical CPM workflows. Topics include continuous schedule quality auditing, automated analysis
of change and delay, integration of uncertainty modeling directly into core scheduling environments, and the use of data-driven techniques to inform duration
uncertainty and probabilistic outcomes. The session also addresses how advanced analytics and automated reporting improve the speed, consistency, and objectivity
of schedule communication across project teams and management. The focus of this presentation is capability, not deployment. It provides a technology-agnostic
view of how advanced scheduling repositions the schedule as a continuously analyzed decision-support system rather than a static planning artifact.
Wednesday, 8:00 AM to 10:40 AM
WED01 - Keynote Session - Mock Trial 2024
-- 160 minute double session
Judge Marshall's court is again in session for this year's Mock Trial presentation. So top off your cup of coffee, be seated, and enjoy the show! Judge Marshall
will teach the LAW. Two attorneys will be providing examples of trial techniques, setting traps for unwary experts. Two experts will be providing examples of bad and
good behaviour. One fact witness with actual knowledge will entertain as he provides the facts of the case to Judge Marshall and the jury (you!)
Wednesday, 11:00 AM to 12:15 PM
WED21 - PANEL Discussion by The Litigation Team
WED22 - Town Hall by Oracle
Come discuss Your Thoughts About Oracle Products
WED23 - Risk, Acceleration and Forensics: How Zachry Construction utilizes Deltek Acumen Fuse in Project Scheduling
With projects and schedules getting increasingly complex, Zachry Construction has turned to Deltek Acumen Fuse to assist in Risk Management, Acceleration Analysis,
and Schedule Forensics to aid in Schedule Quality Control and Work Planning. We will take a look at a few of the modules that Zachry Construction has implemented
and how they have helped Schedule Execution.
WED24 - From Digital Capability to Business Impact: Deploying Advanced Scheduling and AI at Enterprise Scale
Many organizations invest in advanced scheduling and AI-enabled technologies but struggle to convert technical capability into measurable business outcomes.
Where impact is achieved, it is typically driven by structured deployment, governance, and organizational enablement rather than the tools themselves.
This presentation examines how advanced scheduling capabilities are deployed at enterprise scale within traditionally structured project controls organizations.
It contrasts unmanaged tool adoption with structured enablement programs and explores the implications for data quality, consistency, and decision-making.
The session introduces a practical deployment framework and maturity matrix spanning standards, processes, tools, and people.
This matrix is used to illustrate how increasing organizational maturity enables improved predictability, reduced schedule-related risk, faster decision cycles,
and measurable return on investment at both project and portfolio levels. The objective is to provide attendees with a clear, actionable understanding of how to
operationalize advanced scheduling capabilities and translate them into tangible project and business outcomes.
Wednesday, 1:45 PM to 3:00 PM
WED31 - The Dispute Report by Carson and Betz
WED32 - Town Hall by Deltek
Come discuss Your Thoughts About Deltek Products
WED33 - TBD
WED34 - Building Buy-In for Realistic and Reliable Project Schedules
Big teams and complex plans often lead to misalignment and missed deadlines. This session uncovers how to bring people together, build buy-in, and keep the
schedule on track. You’ll leave with a simple “cheat sheet” to replicate these results in your own organization.
Wednesday, 3:20 PM to 4:25 PM
WED41 - Ethics and the Expert
A Panel Discussion Led by Judge Marshall
Closing Remarks on CCC24
WED42 - Town Hall by Elecosoft
Come discuss Your Thoughts About Elecosoft Products
WED43 - Latest on AACE 29RP-03
There is a LOT of NEWS
WED44- Construction Scheduling is the Best Job in the World!
This light-hearted session explains to beginners why everyone likes construction CPM scheduling so much. It is very unlike other professions. There is a
huge demand for the trained scheduler, and the pay is very good. The job is always challenging and endlessly evolving. You will work on a team and often
without supervision (kind of ‘be your own boss’, but on a team with others working on the same goal). There is a lot to learn, but training, textbooks,
and professional organizations such as the Construction CPM Conference are there to help you climb the latter. Best of all, you get to be a part of something
great that you can point to with pride.Presented by Kevin Elvrum and Ron Winter, PSP FAACE
-- page under construction -- speakers please provide updated Abstracts for this web page and conference booklet - limit 50 words
- we will insert your supplied hyperlinks - program subject to change without notice