Join Us for the Inaugural Women in the Boiler Industry (WIBI) Symposium - Open To All!

Greg Goossens & Howard Berny

Pre-Conference Technical Session: NBIC Part 2 Inspection Code & Changes
Howard Berny, Chief Boiler Inspector for the State of Minnesota and a U.S. Navy veteran, has decades of experience in operations, inspections, and training. Greg Goossens, Director of Jurisdictional Affairs for the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors, has over 40 years in safety, inspection, and jurisdictional compliance.

This joint pre-conference session will cover recent updates to NBIC Part 2 – Inspection Code & Changes. Attendees will gain an understanding of what’s changed, how it impacts compliance, and practical steps for applying the updates in day-to-day operations. Ideal for inspectors, engineers, and plant managers committed to safety and code adherence.

Catherine Tojaga, P.E.

Fireside Chat & Dessert Social Guest Speaker
Catherine Tojaga is the founder and President of CT Mechanical, a $30M commercial HVAC firm, and Hemingway Chimney. With over 25 years in the industry, she has bridged the gap between contractor and engineer while leading award-winning companies. Catherine founded She Builds, an organization connecting women in construction through dynamic events, and was the first woman appointed to the SMACNA Greater Chicago Board.

In the Fireside Chat & Dessert Social, Catherine will share candid insights on leadership, resilience, and building a thriving career in a male-dominated industry. The conversation will be moderated by Nancy Simoneau, CEO of Groupe Simoneau and Chair of the ABMA Board, one of the first women to lead an industrial boiler manufacturing company in North America. Expect authentic stories, practical advice, and inspiration from two trailblazers in the field.

Ruth King

Known as the Profit & Wealth Guru, Ruth King has spent more than 30 years helping contractors in industries like HVAC, plumbing, and construction grow profitable, sustainable businesses. She holds an MBA in Finance and multiple engineering degrees, has authored several bestselling business books, and has spoken in 49 U.S. states. Ruth has a gift for making complex financial concepts easy to understand and apply.

In her session, Business & Personal P&Ls, Balance Sheets, and KPIs, Ruth will walk attendees through how to read, interpret, and act on financial statements. She will share practical tips for turning financial data into actionable strategies that improve cash flow, profitability, and long-term business value.

Howard Berny

Boiler Hazards, Maintenance & Safety

Howard Berny, Chief Boiler Inspector for the State of Minnesota, has over 30 years of experience in boiler operations, inspections, and safety training. A U.S. Navy veteran and ASME Designee, he is recognized for his expertise in code compliance and operator education.

This session will cover common and critical boiler room hazards, essential maintenance practices, and safety protocols. Drawing on real-world examples, Howard will share practical steps to improve compliance, reduce risk, and ensure safe, efficient operations.

Colleen Keyworth

Innovate & Elevate – Boosting Productivity with AI
Colleen Keyworth is Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Online Access and a nationally recognized voice in HVACR digital marketing. Growing up in her family’s HVAC and plumbing business gave her firsthand insight into contractor challenges. Colleen has served as president of both Women in HVACR and the International Network for Women in Cooling (INWIC), and serves on multiple industry boards.

In her session, Colleen will explore how AI and modern digital tools can help contractors and business leaders improve productivity, creativity, and marketing impact. Attendees will gain practical ideas for integrating technology into everyday work in ways that save time and drive results.

Paule Genest

Positive Communication Isn’t a Soft Skill—It’s a Leadership Multiplier
Paule Genest is Director of Sales & ESG at TGWT and an advocate for using communication as a strategic leadership tool. With a career spanning sales leadership and environmental, social, and governance initiatives, she understands the link between strong communication and business success.

Paule’s session will help you transform how you communicate as a leader. She’ll share techniques for building trust, fostering collaboration, and creating clarity in high-pressure situations—showing why positive communication is a measurable leadership advantage.

Jackie Hodes, Melissa Raphan & Tricia Staible

Fireside Chat: Igniting Confidence – Strategies for Negotiating & Self-Advocating
Jackie Hodes, founder of J2advisors, brings deep legal expertise in high-value transactions. Melissa Raphan, partner at Dorsey & Whitney, is known for her litigation skills and advocacy for diversity in leadership. Tricia Staible, President of Robinson Fans, combines operational and legal leadership experience.

This fireside chat will explore real-world strategies for advocating for yourself, navigating negotiations, and building career confidence. Expect actionable advice from three women who have led in high-stakes environments and championed the advancement of others.

Jessica Cooper, Madiha El Mehelmy Kotb, Heather Kozak, Scott Schindlbeck

Closing Luncheon & Leadership Panel – Empowering Excellence: Insights from Top Industry Leaders

Jessica Cooper – Senior Vice President, Inspection Services, HSB

Jessica Cooper leads inspection services at Hartford Steam Boiler, bringing deep expertise in nuclear operations, inspection, and technical training. With an MBA from Kaplan University and extensive leadership experience at HSB, she has built a career grounded in operational excellence and team development. Her background includes service in the U.S. Navy, where she honed skills in high-stakes, technical environments.

Madiha El Mehelmy Kotb – Past President, ASME
Madiha Kotb is a globally respected engineering leader who has spent her career advancing safety standards and promoting sustainable solutions. A 35-year veteran of the Quebec Provincial Government as Chief Boilers and Pressure Vessels Inspector, she became the 132nd President of ASME, making history as the first from the Middle East to hold the role. She has been recognized with numerous awards, including the ASME Ralph Coats Roe Medal and the NB Safety Medal.

Heather Kozak – General Manager, Northern Blower
Heather Kozak oversees operations and strategic direction at Northern Blower, bringing a practical, solutions-focused leadership style to the manufacturing sector. Known for her ability to lead cross-functional teams and implement operational improvements, Heather has helped strengthen Northern Blower’s position as a trusted industry supplier.

Scott Schindlbeck – President & CEO, Karl Dungs, Inc.
Scott Schindlbeck is a transformative leader with over 25 years of experience in industrial, HVAC, and energy companies. Appointed President & CEO of Karl Dungs, Inc. in 2025, he has a track record of driving growth, fostering innovation, and leading successful mergers and acquisitions. His leadership style emphasizes collaboration, customer focus, and empowering teams to deliver sustainable, high-impact solutions.

Moderated by Shaunica Jayson, ABMA’s Vice President of Membership & Marketing, this closing panel will explore leadership journeys, lessons learned, and strategies for empowering the next generation of industry leaders. Panelists will share insights on mentorship, organizational culture, diversity, and the evolving challenges and opportunities shaping the boiler industry’s future.