Meeting Information

Working the Room: How to Walk In, Speak Up, and Move with Confidence

 

June 24, 2026
9:00 AM CDT - 11:00 AM CDT

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Woodward Design+Build
1000 South Norman C. Francis Parkway
New Orleans, LA 70125
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Walking into a room full of unfamiliar faces can feel intimidating — even for seasoned professionals.

This summer’s interactive workshop is designed to take the guesswork out of networking and give you practical, real-world strategies you can actually use. From making a confident first entrance to starting meaningful conversations — and knowing how to exit them gracefully — we’ll break down the unwritten rules of professional interaction in a format that’s engaging, participatory, and anything but a traditional lecture.

Whether you’re attending industry events, client meetings, conferences, or social gatherings, you’ll leave with the tools to show up with intention, connect authentically, and navigate any room with more confidence and ease.

Presenters: 
Matt Lundy is the co-owner of REI Promos, which he has operated with his wife, Helen, for nearly 25 years. Matt has been an active member of the chapter as a sponsor, board member, and Membership Chair. A graduate of St. John’s University with a Bachelor of Science in Finance, Matt began his sales career on Wall Street with Oppenheimer in 1987 before relocating to New Orleans in 1992. With nearly 40 years of sales and networking experience, he enjoys helping professionals feel more confident, connected, and comfortable working a room.
Robin Carubba is the Marketing and Business Development Director at Carubba Engineering, Inc., a family-owned civil, structural, and marine engineering firm serving the Gulf South. Before transitioning into her current role, Robin spent nearly a decade working as a paralegal, supporting forensic engineering and legal consulting efforts through client communication and case management experience. She earned a Bachelor of Science from Louisiana State University and a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Paralegal Studies from Tulane University. Robin currently serves as Programming Director for SMPS Southeast Louisiana and is also the Lead Instructor for Mahjong Orleans, where teaching and community engagement have strengthened her public speaking and conversational skills.

Gia Pieri McCandless is a marketing professional with more than 17 years of experience in the construction, architecture, and engineering industries. She has spent a total of 12 years with Woodward Design+Build, where she oversees regional marketing and communications efforts. Gia earned a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Louisiana State University in 2008 and is an active member of SMPS Southeast Louisiana, currently serving in the Mentor/Protégé Program. Once a shy intern intimidated by networking events, Gia now enjoys building connections and is excited to help others gain confidence and comfort in professional networking settings.

Tickets

$25.00 Members

$35.00 Non-Members

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