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2026 Venue
204 E 4th St
Austin, TX 78701
Point of Contact: Ken Bauco | 646-675-0171 | ken@infraday.com
The Big Picture
Infraday Texas 2026
Texas is growing fast — and its infrastructure must grow even faster.
On March 3-4, join over 75 speakers and hundreds of attendees at Infraday Texas, a landmark event dedicated to shaping the future of infrastructure in the Lone Star State. As part of Infraday’s national event series, this immersive gathering brings together leaders from city halls, state agencies, MPOs, utilities, and the private sector for a full day of insight, strategy, and collaboration.
With dual tracks of programming, the event features deep dives into the most urgent infrastructure challenges and innovations, including:
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Building climate resilience and modernizing the power grid
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Advancing mobility through electrification, high-speed rail, and smart transportation
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Reimagining airport and water infrastructure for long-term sustainability
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Harnessing AI, digital twins, and real-time data to transform planning and delivery
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Empowering a skilled workforce for Texas’ next era of growth
This year’s agenda includes compelling panels and presentations from Accenture, CapMetro, the Texas Department of Transportation, Austin Energy, HARC, VIA Metropolitan Transit, and dozens of cities and counties across the state.
From water and energy to data centers, transit, broadband, and the circular economy, Infraday Texas will surface the ideas, tools, and partnerships that will define Texas' infrastructure future.
Interested in partnering with us? Visit www.infraday.com/partner
Point of contact: Ken Bauco | 646-675-0171 | ken@infraday.com
2025 Speakers Included
Adam Eaton, Senior Project Manager – Resiliency Lead, Ardurra
Adam Eaton, P.E., ENV SP, CFM, is a resiliency expert specializing in climate-resilient infrastructure solutions for water, wastewater, and stormwater systems. As a Senior Project Manager at Ardurra, he leverages his expertise in flood risk assessment, mitigation planning, and sustainable infrastructure to drive long-term community resilience. With a background in engineering, public service, and sustainability, Adam is dedicated to developing forward-thinking strategies that enhance infrastructure adaptability and sustainability.
Adam Shaw, US Lead, Accenture, Infrastructure & Capital Projects
Adam J. Shaw is the US Lead for Infrastructure & Capital Projects at Accenture, specializing in program management, business strategy, and capital project transformation. With over 15 years of experience, he has led major infrastructure initiatives across the U.S., focusing on public-private partnerships, strategic growth, and innovative project delivery. As a disruptor in the industry, he is committed to redefining infrastructure development through technology, talent, and sustainability-driven solutions.
AJ Waters, Chief Evangelist, Kahua, Inc.
AJ Waters serves as the Chief Evangelist at Kahua, Inc., where he helps drive innovation and collaboration across the built environment. With over 15 years of experience in construction technology, AJ specializes in improving data quality, project delivery, and lifecycle management for capital programs. A passionate industry advocate, he frequently speaks at conferences and events, sharing insights on the future of construction technology. AJ is committed to helping owners, contractors, and program managers harness technology to deliver smarter, more efficient infrastructure projects.
Albert Lazcano, Division Manager, Quiddity
Albert Lazcano, P.E., CCM, is the Public Construction Division Manager at Quiddity Engineering, where he has dedicated over 22 years to infrastructure development and construction management. Based in Katy, Texas, he specializes in overseeing public sector projects, ensuring quality and efficiency in engineering solutions. A graduate of the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management, Albert is a seasoned professional committed to advancing the industry and fostering collaboration.
Amy Atchley, EV Equity Development Manager, Austin Energy
As the EV Equity Manager at Austin Energy, Amy Atchley leverages over 15 years of experience in marketing and program design to promote electric vehicle adoption. Recognized nationally and internationally for her innovation and social entrepreneurship, she develops strategies that ensure equitable access to sustainable transportation solutions.
Anil Mirmira, Deputy Director, Tolling Operations, Harris County Toll Road Authority
Anil Mirmira, P.E., is the Deputy Director of Tolling Operations at the Harris County Toll Road Authority, where he oversees toll systems, infrastructure support, and policy development to enhance mobility and efficiency. With over 20 years of experience in transportation engineering, he has led large-scale tolling and infrastructure projects at HCTRA, Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson, and Atkins. A recognized innovator in the industry, he played a key role in developing a patented toll-setting policy that advances smart mobility solutions in Harris County.
Brandon Thomas, Water Treatment & Compliance Assistant Manager, New Braunfels Utilities (NBU)
Brandon Thomas is the Water Treatment & Compliance Assistant Manager at New Braunfels Utilities (NBU), where he oversees water treatment operations and ensures regulatory compliance to maintain high-quality water services for the community. With extensive experience in water management, he specializes in treatment process optimization, environmental compliance, and infrastructure improvements. Brandon plays a key role in advancing sustainable water solutions and ensuring adherence to state and federal water quality standards.
Brendon Wheeler, Program Manager, Transportation, North Central Texas Council of Governments
As Program Manager for the Metropolitan Transportation Plan at the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG), Brendon Wheeler oversees the region's long-range transportation planning. His role involves coordinating with various stakeholders to develop strategies that address current and future transportation needs in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Bryan Carruthers, Americas Lead, Accenture Infrastructure & Capital Projects
Based in Austin, Texas, Bryan Carruthers is a seasoned leader in infrastructure and capital projects, currently serving as the Managing Director – Industry X & Americas Infrastructure & Capital Projects Co-Lead at Accenture. With a strong background in digital transformation, AI-driven solutions, and large-scale capital project management, Bryan is focused on helping organizations optimize infrastructure investments, improve project efficiency, and leverage technology for smarter, more resilient development. He is passionate about building high-performing teams and driving innovation in the infrastructure space.
Carlos Gamarra, Vice President of Energy, Air and IT, Sr. Research Scientist, HARC | Houston, Advanced Research Center
Carlos Gamarra, PhD, PE, is Vice President of Energy, Air, and IT at HARC (Houston Advanced Research Center), where he leads strategic initiatives in decarbonization, clean energy, and climate risk for energy systems. With over 15 years of experience in energy innovation, microgrids, and sustainability, Carlos has secured millions in funding for cutting-edge research and technology implementation. He serves as Director of the DOE’s Southcentral Onsite Energy Technical Assistance Partnership and is an advisory council member for the Texas Industrial Energy Efficiency Program. Carlos holds a PhD in Microgrid Planning, executive education from Stanford and IESE, and is passionate about driving impactful change in energy and climate resilience.
Carol Haddock, Professor-in-the-Practice, Rice University School of Engineering and Computing
Carol Haddock is a seasoned civil engineer and public sector leader with over 25 years of experience in infrastructure, capital projects, and water resource planning. She currently serves as a Professor in the Practice at Rice University’s School of Engineering and Computing and is the 2025 official nominee for President-Elect of the American Society of Civil Engineers. Previously, she spent nearly two decades with the City of Houston, including seven years as Director of Houston Public Works.
Caroline Mays, Director of Planning and Modal Programs, Texas Department of Transportation
Caroline Mays, AICP, is the Director of Planning and Modal Programs at the Texas Department of Transportation. She manages the Aviation, Maritime, Public Transportation, Rail, and Transportation Planning and Programming divisions, ensuring cohesive and efficient multimodal transportation planning across the state.
Carolyn LaFleur, Principal Engineer, Low Carbon Energy Solutions, GTI Energy
Carolyn LaFleur is Principal Engineer, Low Carbon Energy Solutions at GTI Energy, specializing in environmental and renewable energy solutions. With over 20 years of experience, she has led research on methane detection, grid resilience, and sustainable energy systems, previously working with the Houston Advanced Research Center (HARC) and Freese and Nichols. Carolyn’s expertise spans climate-conscious infrastructure, energy efficiency, and innovative resource management strategies.
Cesar Alvarado, Sales Director, Aurigo Software Technologies
As Sales Director at Aurigo Software Technologies, Cesar Alvarado brings a diverse background in sales and business development within the infrastructure sector. His career spans roles from Project Engineer to Business Development and Design & Construction Engineering, contributing to his expertise in delivering software solutions for capital planning and construction management.
Chris Wagner, Director, PMWeb, Inc.
Chris Wagner is the Director at PMWeb, Inc., where he helps organizations streamline capital project and program management through innovative project management software solutions. With over two decades of experience in project controls, construction management, and technology implementation, Chris specializes in aligning technology with real-world project needs. His expertise spans diverse industries, including infrastructure, transportation, and commercial development.
Dakota Shaw, Project Manager, Aviation, Planning & Programming, Texas Department of Transportation
Dalton Rice, City Manager, City of Kerrville
Dalton Rice, MSHS, CPM, assumed the role of City Manager for Kerrville, Texas, in October 2023, following his tenure as City Manager for Morgan's Point Resort. With a diverse background, he served 13 years in the U.S. Army Special Forces as a Senior Special Forces Medic and has experience as a paramedic, firefighter, and healthcare administrator. Rice holds a B.S. in Business Administration and Law from Western Carolina University and an MSHS in Health Care Quality from George Washington University.
Darryl Spencer, Vice President Engineering & Technical Services, Dallas Area Rapid Transit
With over 30 years of transportation experience, Darryl Spencer serves as the Vice President of Engineering and Technical Services at Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART). His extensive background encompasses project management, fleet engineering, and systems engineering, playing a crucial role in DART's modernization and infrastructure projects
David Olson, Assistant City Manager, City of Temple, TX
David Olson is the Assistant City Manager for the City of Temple, Texas, contributing to the city's strategic planning and operational management. His role involves overseeing various municipal departments to ensure efficient service delivery and community development.
Diane Cook, Chief Operating Officer, Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area
Diane Tackett is the Chief Operating Officer of Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area (WSRCA), the nonprofit community partnership providing no cost recruitment, employment services and child care assistance, to businesses and job seekers in Central Texas. This nine-county region includes Bastrop; Blanco; Burnet; Caldwell; Fayette; Hays; Lee; Llano; and Williamson counties. She has been in this role since August 2019.
Diane began her career in workforce development in 1999, as a Choices Career Specialist based in Austin, as part of Workforce Solutions Capital Area. In 2002, she transferred to WSRCA’s contractor as a Quality Assurance Specialist, and earned a promotion in 2003 to become the North Area Manager, overseeing three career centers in Williamson County, and serving as Program Manager for the Choices Program and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Employment and Training (E&T) Program.
During Diane's management tenure in the Rural Capital Area, she brought online the Choices Non-Custodial Parents program in Williamson County. After several years as the Area Manager, she was promoted to Deputy Director, and served in that position for two years. In 2012, she returned to the Capital Area to serve as the Deputy Director of Operations and Programs, and later the Director of Child Care Operations. Tackett moved on in 2017 to serve as a Policy Analyst with the Texas Workforce Commission. She joined the WSRCA Board Staff in 2019 as a Contracts Specialist, serving as a subject matter expert for the Child Care Services Program and introducing new innovations to streamline contract oversight and management.
Diane holds a Master of Science in Social Work, and a Bachelors in Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin.
Diane began her career in workforce development in 1999, as a Choices Career Specialist based in Austin, as part of Workforce Solutions Capital Area. In 2002, she transferred to WSRCA’s contractor as a Quality Assurance Specialist, and earned a promotion in 2003 to become the North Area Manager, overseeing three career centers in Williamson County, and serving as Program Manager for the Choices Program and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Employment and Training (E&T) Program.
During Diane's management tenure in the Rural Capital Area, she brought online the Choices Non-Custodial Parents program in Williamson County. After several years as the Area Manager, she was promoted to Deputy Director, and served in that position for two years. In 2012, she returned to the Capital Area to serve as the Deputy Director of Operations and Programs, and later the Director of Child Care Operations. Tackett moved on in 2017 to serve as a Policy Analyst with the Texas Workforce Commission. She joined the WSRCA Board Staff in 2019 as a Contracts Specialist, serving as a subject matter expert for the Child Care Services Program and introducing new innovations to streamline contract oversight and management.
Diane holds a Master of Science in Social Work, and a Bachelors in Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin.
Douglas Melnick, Chief Sustainability Officer, City of San Antonio
Douglas Melnick is the Chief Sustainability Officer for the City of San Antonio, leading climate action, municipal sustainability, and urban resilience initiatives for over a decade. With a background in urban planning and sustainability, he previously served as Director of the Mayor’s Office of Energy and Sustainability in Albany, NY, shaping policies on energy efficiency and environmental resilience. His expertise in climate adaptation, community engagement, and sustainable development continues to drive impactful change in Texas and beyond.
Gadimi Hilton, Transportation & Public Works, Regional Transportation and Innovation, City of Fort Worth
As part of the Transportation & Public Works Department in Fort Worth, Gadimi Hilton focuses on regional transportation and innovation initiatives. His work involves planning and implementing transportation projects that enhance mobility and infrastructure within the city.
Gina De Leon, Senior Director, Alvarez & Marsal
Gina De Leon is a Senior Director at Alvarez & Marsal with deep expertise in public sector consulting, focusing on infrastructure, broadband, and sustainability. With a background in architecture and over a decade of experience spanning capital projects, disaster recovery, and federal grant strategy, she brings a unique lens to solving complex challenges at the intersection of climate, equity, and the built environment. Gina is passionate about building thriving, inclusive communities through collaborative, systems-level change.
Heather Bishop, Associate Project Manager, Transportation and Public Works, City of Austin
Heather Bishop is an Associate Project Manager with the City of Austin's Transportation and Public Works Department, focusing on strategic capital projects that enhance mobility, safety, and infrastructure efficiency. With a diverse background spanning engineering, policy analysis, and urban planning, she plays a key role in developing multi-modal transportation solutions and smart mobility initiatives. As Managing Director of the Austin Smart City Alliance, Heather also leads efforts to integrate innovative technologies that improve urban connectivity and sustainability.
J. Joel Garza, Jr. Multimodal Transportation Director, City of Brownsville, Texas
J. Joel Garza, Jr. is the Multimodal Transportation Director for the City of Brownsville, Texas, where he oversees public transit, bicycle and pedestrian programs, and transportation planning. With over a decade of experience in urban mobility, he has played a key role in developing the city's BTX Mobility Plan and advancing regional transit initiatives. Holding a Master of Public Affairs from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, he is committed to enhancing multimodal transportation systems across Texas.
Interested in becoming a partner or exhibitor? Please contact ken@infraday.com
Official Partners – 2026
Aurigo
Aurigo builds software that helps build the world. Aurigo provides modern, cloud-based solutions for capital infrastructure and private owners to help them plan with confidence, build with quality, and maintain their assets efficiently. With more than $300b of capital programs under management, Aurigo’s solutions are trusted by over 300 customers in transportation, water and utilities, healthcare, higher education, and the government on over 40,000 projects across North America. Aurigo helps capital program executives make better decisions based on proprietary artificial intelligence and machine learning technology. Aurigo is a privately held US corporation headquartered in Austin, Texas, with global offices in Canada and India. Learn more at www.aurigo.com.
Procore
Procore is a cloud-based construction management platform that streamlines project workflows. It connects all project stakeholders—from owners and contractors to subcontractors—on a single, collaborative platform. For public sector projects, this means improved transparency, accountability, and efficiency. Procore facilitates real-time communication, document control, bid management, and cost tracking, helping ensure projects stay on time and within budget. It enhances collaboration, reduces risk, and provides valuable data insights for better decision-making throughout the project lifecycle, ultimately benefiting taxpayers.
TorcSill
TorcSill provides turn-key, creative, and cost-effective solutions for renewables—Solar, Wind, Storage, Hydrogen, Renewable Fuels, and Carbon Capture.
By eliminating concrete and utilizing TorcSills, our original brand of helical piles, customers can reduce their CO22 footprint while compressing the project schedule and decreasing the overall construction cost.
By eliminating concrete and utilizing TorcSills, our original brand of helical piles, customers can reduce their CO22 footprint while compressing the project schedule and decreasing the overall construction cost.
Trimble
Trimble is a global technology company that connects the physical and digital worlds, transforming the ways work gets done. With relentless innovation in precise positioning, modeling and data analytics, Trimble enables essential industries including construction, geospatial and transportation. Whether it's helping customers build and maintain infrastructure, design and construct buildings, optimize global supply chains or map the world, Trimble is at the forefront, driving productivity and progress. For more information about Trimble (Nasdaq: TRMB), visit: www.trimble.com.
2026 Agenda
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