March 2026 Networking and Technical Event

Join us for a fun and informative networking and technical event in March 2026!

Welcome to the March 2026 Networking and Technical Event! Join us for a special event ot celebrate International Women's Day. Please note that the location has changed - This special event will take place at the Arup Building in 121 Bloor Street East, Suite 900. Don't miss this exciting chance to collaborate and grow professionally. See you there!

About the Presentation:

The Skill Exchange Women in Action

To bring together accomplished leaders in project controls and infrastructure to share practical insights on leadership, influence, adaptability, and career growth in the public sector. Through real experiences and actionable frameworks, our speakers will explore the skills that drive impact, elevate performance, and empower professionals to grow from technical experts into influential leaders.

About the Presenters:

Ldya Tekle - Topic: Adaptability

Ldya is a financial and economic analyst at Arup with experience in infrastructure, energy, and transportation projects. She holds a BA in Economics and Business with a Finance specialization from the University of Waterloo and focuses on economic policy, financial analysis, and data-driven decision-making. Her work includes analyzing infrastructure pilot programs, reviewing financial models for energy projects, and conducting cost-benefit assessments for transportation initiatives. In her session on Adaptability, Lydia will share how analytical thinking and flexibility are essential skills for navigating complex projects and evolving industry demands.

Kaitlin Shung - Topic: The Power of Persuasion: Communicating with Clarity, Credibility, and Impact

Kaitlin is the Senior Director of Legal Services at EllisDon Corporation, with 10 years of legal experience, including six years with one of Canada’s largest general contractors. She specializes in identifying, managing, and mitigating legal risks throughout project execution and dispute resolution. Kaitlin has overseen complex P3 infrastructure disputes and provides strategic guidance on legal risk management during project delivery and operations. In her presentation, The Power of Persuasion: Communicating with Clarity, Credibility, and Impact, she will discuss how effective communication strengthens leadership presence and drives successful project outcomes.

Samin Bidhendi - Topic: From Expert to Executive – Control in Project Controls

Samin is the Practice Lead for Commercial Management at Charter, bringing over 18 years of experience in commercial advisory, claims, project controls, and risk management. She has worked across Canada and the U.S. on major infrastructure projects delivered through both traditional and alternative models, including P3 and Design-Build. Samin leads commercial and dispute resolution services, supporting clients through all phases of the project lifecycle. In her talk, From Expert to Executive – Control in Project Controls, she will explore how mastering commercial strategy and risk allocation enables professionals to transition from technical specialists to influential leaders.

Angela Brinklow - Topic: The Evolution of Leadership

Angela is an executive leader in public sector transportation with over 15 years of experience and a Master of Urban Planning specializing in transportation. She has led major initiatives including modernizing project controls for Metrolinx’s $50 billion capital program and supporting the launch of the UP Express. With deep expertise in enterprise reporting, performance measurement, and risk management, she has overseen performance management for the Eglinton and Finch West LRTs and established controls for a $1.4 billion state-of-good-repair program. In her session on The Evolution of Leadership, Angela will share insights on how leaders grow from technical experts into strategic decision-makers who drive organizational impact.

See you there!

AACE Toronto Section Team