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HARD HAT TOUR: Cincinnati Convention Center

September 11, 2025
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
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Cincinnati Convention Center
525 Elm Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
https://www.visitcincy.com/meetings/meet-in-cincinnati/convention-development/#reimaginedconventioncenter
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HARD HAT TOUR: Cincinnati Convention Center Transformation
Online registration is closed, as we have reached capacity for the tour.
Agenda
3:00PM - 3:30PM: Check-In & Networking
3:30PM - 4:30PM: Tour
Networking Happy Hour to Immediately Follow the Tour at Vintage on Race (500 Race St, Cincinnati, OH 45202)
*Please make sure to wear closed toed shoes, and plan to bring your own PPE if at all possible, we have limited extras available.
Join us for an exclusive behind-the-scenes Hard Hat Tour of the Duke Energy Convention Center as it undergoes a $240 million reimagining — part of Cincinnati’s bold $800 million Downtown Convention District transformation. Scheduled to reopen in January 2026, the revitalized Center will feature cutting-edge meeting spaces, upgraded ballrooms, a rooftop terrace with stunning skyline views, and enhanced energy efficiency throughout. The reimagined Convention Center will also showcase the new Elm Street Plaza, a two-acre outdoor event and activation space seamlessly integrated into the district. Don’t miss your chance to experience how Cincinnati is creating the Midwest’s premier destination for conventions, conferences, and events before it opens to the public in 2026!
Here are some of the key features mentioned above
- Gross Square Feet: 750,000, including setup and support space
- Exhibition Space: 200,000 contiguous square feet
- Grand Ballroom: 40,000 square feet, one of the largest in the Midwest
- Additional Ballroom: 17,400 square feet to comfortably host smaller groups
- Brand New Rooftop Terrace
- Meeting Space: 30 deluxe breakout rooms with flexibility to accommodate 24 to 4,100 attendees
- Loading Dock: 17 berths and three semi-truck portals that lead directly to exhibition space
- Full-Service Banquet Kitchen: 5,000 served in a single seating
- Levels: 3, multi-level concourse provides easy access to exhibit space, meeting rooms, and ballroom levels
- Skywalk Access: Direct connection to the brand new, 800-room Headquarters Hotel
- Extended Outdoor Space: Seamless flow to the new Elm Street Convention Plaza
PROJECT TOUR LEADERS

Bruce Tumlin, Project Executive, Messer Construction Co.
Bruce Tumlin began his journey with Messer Construction Co. in 1993. He earned his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Cincinnati. With 32 of experience, he has provided leadership on numerous landmark construction projects, such as UC Health’s largest construction project—the Emergency Department and Surgical Infill—earning the Associated General Contractors “Build America” Award, plus Children's Hospital, Major Hospital, and Indiana University. He is currently leading construction for the $240M reimagination of the Cincinnati Convention Center as the driving force behind quality, cost, schedule and safety goals. Beyond his professional achievements, Bruce actively participates in Dan Beard Council Boy Scouts of America and Hamilton County 4-H.

Jason Jones, President, THP Limited
Jason Jones, President of THP Limited, brings over 25 years of experience as a structural engineer, leading with a commitment to collaboration, innovation, and excellence in the built environment. His leadership fosters a culture that empowers both THP’s team and its partners to push creative boundaries and deliver impactful solutions. Jason’s passion for architecture and construction is matched by his deep understanding of the entire design and building process, allowing him to approach projects with a unique blend of technical precision and visionary insight. His attention to detail and dedication to team development have earned him the respect of colleagues and clients alike. His projects include Cincinnati Music Hall Renovation, Andrew J. Brady Music Center, Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame, and the Contemporary Arts Center.

Joshua Smitherman, Vice President, Business Development & Marketing, Jostin Construction
Josh Smitherman leads Business Development and Marketing at Jostin Construction, where he drives strategic growth, brand presence, and client relationships across the company’s core and emerging markets. A Xavier University graduate, Josh began his career in marketing at Ford Motor Company before returning to Jostin—where his experience spans both field and office roles.
His leadership has helped modernize Jostin’s marketing through initiatives like the Fast 5 video series, jobsite storytelling, and digital strategy enhancements. He also led the firm’s adoption of AI tools to streamline workflows and deliver greater value to clients. As a passionate advocate for the built environment, Josh focuses on shaping how clients experience and connect with Jostin’s work.
Josh serves on the board of the Springer School and Center, the Spirit of Construction Marketing Committee, and the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Emerging Philanthropist Council. Representing Jostin at SMPS Cincinnati’s Convention Center walkthrough, he brings a unique lens that bridges business development, storytelling, and community-focused construction.

Vince Terry, AIA, NOMA, NCARB; Senior Associate, Regional Director of Business Development, Moody Nolan
For Vince, design is much more than architecture–it is a beacon of hope for a better future.
As Regional Director of Business Development for the Greater Cincinnati area, his experience includes developing team and client relationships, identifying potential projects, facilitating client programing and kicking off design concepts with innovative solutions. With an expert eye for seeing the big picture, Vince is motivated by community impact and seeing positive change in the lives of others through architecture.
Vince facilitates Moody Nolan’s HBCU committee, helping to steward the firm’s investment in Historically Black Colleges and Universities. He is a member of the AIA, National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), and the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA). He holds a Bachelor’s in Architecture from the University of Cincinnati.

Kameron Smith, PE, Civil Enginer, Bayer Becker
A graduate of University of Cincinnati, Kam is a civil engineer with a passion for urban revitalization and community-building. After completing three co-op semesters with Bayer Becker, he joined the firm's Over-the-Rhine office full time, where he continues to contribute to transformative projects across the region. Kam is committed to delivering sustainable, practical solutions that strengthen neighborhoods and foster connection. Known for his collaborative spirit and adaptability, he brings both technical expertise and a people-centered approach to every project. He has made his mark on a number of notable projects in Cincinnati's urban neighborhoods including Cincinnati Convention Center Renovation, Sak's 5th Ave Redevelopment, Cincinnati Public Library Main Branch Renovation, and the OTR Recreation Center.

Matthew Blackburn, PLA, Landscape Architect, Bayer Becker
With over a decade of designing, Matthew's portfolio encompasses everything from complex projects with multiple stakeholders, to developer-led urban projects, streetscape improvements, and district placemaking initiatives. A graduate of Purdue University, his true passion lies in solving intricate challenges related to where we live, work, and play - crafting inviting and enriching human environments. He excels in building strong relationships, emphasizing his commitment to collaborative efforts that infuse human-scaled design into the built environment, ultimately enhancing the character of each location. Matthew's work can be seen in both Cincinnati and Greater Indianapolis, notably the Cincinnati Convention Center Renovation, The District at Deerfield, The District at Clifton Heights, and Cason Family Park.

Abby Sansom, PE, WELL AP, LEED AP BD+C, Electrical Engineer, CMTA
Abby Sansom is an electrical engineer with CMTA. Since she began working with CMTA in 2021, she has been involved in projects throughout the Cincinnati area including projects for Cincinnati Public Radio, Good Sam Hospital, The Christ Hospital, Cincinnati Art Museum, and the Cincinnati Zoo. She was the lead electrical engineer on the Cincinnati Convention center which included extensive switchgear replacement and lighting design. Abby’s approach combines technical expertise with a love for innovation, making her a trusted partner in the design process. Her work reflects a deep respect for place, people, and possibility. Abby specializes in crafting thoughtful electrical lighting solutions that enhance both the function and aesthetic of the built environment.

Owen Green, Mechanical Engineer, CMTA
Owen Green is a mechanical engineer at CMTA. Since Owen began working with CMTA in 2020, he taken on large scale mechanical projects over multiple market sectors. He is the lead mechanical designer for the Cincinnati Convention Center project. Owen has a passion for sustainable design and has contributed to the design of many low EUI / high performing buildings. Locally, you can see Owen’s work at the Cincinnati Art Museum, Gahanna School District, and Cincinnati Public Radio. Owen thrives in collaboration and is driven by a commitment to delivering meaningful results.
Please contact us at [email protected] to learn how you can support this or future programs.
For any questions on this program or registration, please contact Sam Rossell at [email protected].
Tickets
$0.00 Project Tour Member Ticket
$20.00 Project Tour Guest Ticket
$0.00 SMPS Member - Other Chapter

