IAQA Annual Meeting & Expo, June 1-4, 2025
Lexington Marriott City Center &
Residence Inn Marriott City Center
Lexington, KY
Pre-Conference Workshop, Sunday, June 1
11:00 am Registration Desk Opens
1:00-5:00 pm | Mycotoxins and Advanced Mold Testing, Eric Althouse
Eric Althouse
This workshop provides an in-depth exploration of mycotoxin and mold DNA testing, presented in an engaging and hands-on format. Participants will learn about the common and important mycotoxins found in indoor environments and explore the significance of testing for mycotoxins, endotoxins, or 1,3-B-D-Glucan when screening buildings. The workshop will cover best practices for conducting statistically valid air sampling and include hands-on experience with mycotoxin sampling techniques. Strategies for using mycotoxin sampling to identify hidden mold problems will also be discussed.
Additionally, the workshop will delve into the interpretation of human testing results and their potential connection to indoor mold exposure, as well as recent research on mycotoxins in indoor environments. We will discuss common objections to mycotoxin testing and address challenges with ERMI testing, including how to use PCR effectively. We will provide a draft protocol for effectively remediating a IICRC Condition 2 including accumulated mycotoxins. Finally, the workshop will explore how air pressures and the hygric buffer capacity of buildings can impact mold growth, providing a comprehensive understanding of the factors that influence mold and mycotoxin development in indoor spaces.
Testimonial:
The training that I have received from Eric Althouse on mycotoxins has been a game changer. I can better relate to the potential relationship between molds found, the laboratory analysis that occupants have had completed on blood or urine, and the health symptoms people are reporting. This has been a total reset for me and we have changed the scope of work on remediation projects for properties that have mycotoxin contamination. - Robert Bennett
5:00 - 6:00 pm Reception in the Exhibit Hall
IAQA Conference Program, Monday, June 2
* Monday and Tuesday's specific presentation times are subject to change.
7:00 am Registration Desk Opens
7:00 am Breakfast Buffet in the Exhibit Hall
8:00 am Annual Meeting & Town Hall: Please join IAQ President Lisa Rogers, First Vice President Stanley Yeskolski, and the IAQA Board as we discuss our future plans and upcoming events, showcase recent association developments, and thank our outstanding sponsors and exhibitors!
8:55 am Conference Welcome
9:00 am | Lessons Learned: 20 Years of Experience in Indoor Air Quality Home Assessments and Remediation, Jill Heins-Nesvold, MPH
Jill Heins-Nesvold, MPH
Indoor air quality impacts individuals with lung disease. Particulate matter, allergens, biologic contaminants, and gas contaminants contribute to poor indoor air quality and trigger symptoms for individuals with asthma and COPD.
For the past 20 years, the American Lung Association has conducted in-home and virtual home assessments and remediation for individuals with lung disease. With findings from well over 2,000 participants, the American Lung Association has found these home visits change people’s lives. Home visits have shown to decrease day and night symptoms, improve daily function, improve school and work attendance, decrease emergency department visits and hospitalizations, and save health care dollars.
The American Lung Association will share its significant experience, findings, and lessons learned with the indoor air quality professionals in attendance and provide our insights into meaningful, high-quality, low-cost remediations to improve your clients’ lives.
10:00 am Refreshment Break in the Exhibit Hall
10:30 am | Silicone Wristband SVOC Monitoring After East Palestine, Ohio Train Derailment, Sydney Shafer, MPH
Sydney Shafer, MPH
On February 3, 2023, a train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio led to a chemical release and fire, followed by a controlled burn of five train cars containing vinyl chloride.
Study Overview:
As part of the East Palestine Health Tracking Study, 80 participants wore silicone wristbands for a week in July 2023. These wristbands act as low-cost, non-invasive personal sampling devices, capturing environmental chemicals. Participants also completed surveys on their activities.
Chemical Analysis & Findings:
Researchers analyzed 135 semi-volatile organic chemicals (SVOCs) across nine classes, including dioxins, furans, Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and phthalates. No dioxins, furans, or 16 other classified chemicals were detected. PAHs (produced when organic materials are burned) were higher in smokers and those working with heavy machinery. Other potential PAH sources included Canadian wildfires and heavy truck traffic clearing derailment debris.
Ongoing Analysis
Researchers are conducting mapping analyses based on participants' home addresses to determine if there are any geospatial patterns of exposure to certain chemicals and classes.
Learn how silicone wristbands have proven to be valuable tools for personal chemical exposure assessment, particularly in the aftermath of disaster events like the East Palestine train derailment.
11:20 am | Healthy Schools, Luke Gard, CIEC, CMC, BOC
Luke Gard, CIEC, CMC, BOC
This course is under construction. Description coming soon!
12:10 pm Lunch Break in the Exhibit Hall
1:30 pm | The Shift Away from IAQ toward IEQ, Carl Grimes, HHS, CIEC
Carl Grimes, HHS, CIEC
Healthy Buildings initiatives have shifted from focusing solely on indoor air quality (IAQ) to a broader view of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) which considers the interactive indoor environment, including occupants. IAQ is more effectively included as one of the four primary factors of IEQ. Because the indoor environment, by definition, includes the people in the buildings, defining "health" and "well-being" in this context has become critically important.
This class will explore key developments shaping the future of Healthy Buildings, including:
- The new HUD rating system;
- ISIAQ’s journal name change from Indoor Air to Indoor Environments;
- The status of ASHRAE’s Position Document on health, along with updates to Guideline 10: Interactions Affecting the Achievement of Acceptable Indoor Environments
- Hayward Score’s expansion into education and clarification of the interactions of people and homes;
- A University of Texas peer-reviewed publication demonstrating the success of educating occupants, and the dynamic linkage of the objective indoor environment with the subjective occupant experience.
Gain insights and learn how to apply the evolving standards and research driving healthier indoor environments.
2:20 pm | Clean Air, Moldy Surfaces: A Sampling Paradox, Onell González-Martinez, Ph.D., CIEC, CMA, LEED AP O&M
Onell González-Martinez, Ph.D., CIEC, CMA, LEED AP O&M
A mold and moisture assessment was conducted in select areas of a gym facility in San Juan, PR, following reports of recurring surface mold growth. While visible mold was confirmed on various surfaces—including concrete ceilings and ventilation diffusers—air samples showed little to no airborne spores, indicating a near mold-free indoor air environment. Significant dust accumulation was observed, particularly on hard-to-reach surfaces, furniture, and HVAC components, with return dampers partially blocked by dust.
Despite well-controlled temperature and humidity levels, the presence of multiple portable dehumidifiers suggested ongoing moisture issues. This case highlights the limitations of air sampling alone in assessing mold presence, especially when surface growth is undisturbed or not yet sporulating, and emphasizes the need for thorough visual and environmental evaluations.
2:20 pm | Wildfire Damage Assessment: A Practical Guide for IAQ Professionals, Jeremy Beagle, CIH
Jeremy Beagle, CIH
Wildfires can significantly impact indoor environments, and IAQ practitioners play a key role in assessing that damage. This session provides a practical overview of the wildfire assessment process—from collecting background data before arriving on-site to understanding the unique safety considerations involved.
We’ll cover how to evaluate interior and exterior conditions for fire-related impacts, distinguish them from other sources of contamination, and implement effective sampling strategies to support your findings.
This class is perfect for IAQ professionals looking to build confidence in wildfire response and improve assessment accuracy in smoke-affected buildings.
3:10 pm Refreshment Break in the Exhibit Hall
3:30 pm | Triumphs, Tests and Trials: IAQ in a Public Health Setting, Yvette A. Mitchell, MS, BA, CRIE
Yvette A. Mitchell, MS, BA, CRIE
Housing quality directly impacts health and well-being, yet the availability of safe, affordable, and healthy homes remains elusive in urban areas. Cost barriers often prevent necessary home maintenance, potentially leading to issues that result in poor indoor air and indoor environmental quality.
To address these issues, the Cleveland Department of Public Health’s Division of Air Quality (CDPH DAQ) launched an Indoor Air Quality Program to respond to public complaints and concerns. The program has grown to include promoting the principles of Healthy homes; phone consultations and referrals; planning for an asthma home management program addressing asthma home triggers; and promoting smoke-free living in multi-unit housing. Despite the program’s successes, funding limitations restrict its reach. A dedicated funding source with broader eligibility is needed to expand services and improve housing conditions for more residents.
This session will highlight key lessons from the program, including: primary indoor concerns from residents and strategies for other health departments to implement similar initiatives.
3:30 pm | Streamlining Home Service Businesses: Reduce Admin, Increase Profit, Courtney Boomer
Courtney Boomer
In the home service industry, businesses often struggle with manual administrative tasks, scheduling inefficiencies, inconsistent follow-ups, and revenue leakage due to outdated or disconnected systems. Without proper management software, home service providers face missed appointments, poor customer communication, delayed invoicing, and difficulty tracking marketing ROI.
This presentation explores how implementing the right management software and automation tools can dramatically improve efficiency, reduce administrative burdens, and ultimately increase profitability. We’ll break down real-world strategies to implement automations, streamline workflows, and improve client retention by using:
- CRM (Customer Relationship Management): Automate lead capture, follow-ups, and client communications.
- Scheduling & Job Management: Reduce missed appointments and ensure efficient dispatching.
- Automated Billing & Payments: Minimize delayed payments and cash flow issues.
- Marketing & Follow-Ups: Leverage automated email & text sequences to convert more leads.
- Key Performance Indicator (KPI )Tracking & Reporting: Use data to optimize operations and make better business decisions.
Attendees will walk away with actionable steps to enhance customer communication, increase revenue, and maximize efficiency.
4:20 pm | Big House, Big Challenge: Formaldehyde Survey & Purge, Robert Bennett, CMC, CMRS and Stanley Yeskolski, CIEC, CMC, CMI
Robert Bennett, CMC, CMRS and Stanley Yeskolski, CIEC, CMC, CMI
Formaldehyde is common in many construction materials, including flooring, cabinetry, and insulation. This case study explores the assessment and mitigation of formaldehyde contamination in a newly built 12,000 sq ft home that was rendered uninhabitable due to off-gassing. The investigation included air quality monitoring (TVOC, temperature, humidity) and formaldehyde sampling using lab-analyzed badges and a Formaldemeter across 45 interior zones. Despite careful material selection during construction, formaldehyde levels exceeded LEED's threshold of 0.03 ppm in all areas. A custom flushing protocol based on LEED guidelines was developed, and the homeowners completed the mitigation with expert oversight.
4:20 pm | Forensic Science, Albert Baerren, CIEC
Albert Baerren, CIEC
The world of science is a wonderful place where facts still exist and are used as the basis for making good, informed decisions. There is an art to the collection, interpretation, and presentation of facts that significantly impacts how much influence they have on the perceptions of others, particularly a jury. This discussion will focus on the use of the scientific method in an investigation to gather facts as forensic evidence that supports an expert opinion.
5:15 pm Reception in the Exhibit Hall, Hosted by our Amazing Industry Partners
Conference Program, Tuesday, June 3
7:00 am Registration Desk Opens
7:00 am Breakfast Buffet in the Exhibit Hall
7:50 am Morning Welcome
8:00 am | Committee Confidential - Updates on Standards Development in ASTM, ISO and IICRC, Lisa Rogers, FASTM
Lisa Rogers, FASTM
Industry standards play a critical role in ensuring consistency, accuracy, and reliability in fungal sampling, analysis, and investigations. This presentation will provide key updates on newly established standards, those currently in development, and upcoming initiatives across leading organizations. Attendees will gain insight into the challenges faced in standardization efforts, how different organizations approach the process, and practical ways to get involved or stay informed. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, this session will help you navigate the evolving landscape of industry standards and their impact on IAQ practices.
8:50 am | Keynote: Second Responders are Heroes, But Not Actual Superheroes, Dr. Trevor Wilkins, PhD with Derrick Denis, CIAQP, CAC, CIEC
Dr. Trevor Wilkins, PhD, LPCC-S, NCC, CCTP in conversation with Derrick A. Denis CIAQP, CAC, CIEC
Not all heroes wear capes, some wear disposable coveralls, impermeable gloves, and air purifying respirators.
Environmental professionals ride headlong into chaos to help others in their time of need. In our “Second Responder” industries of restoration, remediation, environmental consulting, and industrial hygiene, we often throw ourselves and our teams into the aftermath of extreme weather events, fires, sewer backups, hoarding houses, unattended deaths, drug overdoses, suicides, regional disasters, local tragedies, and so much more.
In the course of this honorable work, we cannot help but…
SEE, what cannot be unseen,
HEAR, what cannot be unheard, and
SMELL, what cannot be unsmelled.
We take painstaking steps to decontaminate our equipment and our bodies, but currently we do little-to-nothing to wash away the trauma. The “Second Responder” industries have no mechanisms, formal or informal, for preparing, assessing, or supporting our workforce who are affected through intimate and often multi-day involvement in traumatic events.
Join Derrick Denis, an IAQ industry veteran, and Dr. Trevor Wilkins, a renowned trauma therapy warrior, in this no holds barred session. Let’s have a frank discussion, add some tools to your toolbelt, and share some available resources to move the needle for “Second Responder” mental health.
10:00 am Refreshment Break in the Exhibit Hall
10:30 am | Are the Standards for the use of Critical Barriers in Mold Remediation for Attics Adequate? Robert Bennett, CMC, CMRS
Robert Bennett, CMC, CMRS
National microbial remediation standards like those from the U.S. EPA, NYDOH, and IICRC S-520 focus on removing contaminants and protecting workers and occupants—but they often overlook the importance of covering attic insulation during remediation. This presentation explores how failing to protect insulation can increase microbial contamination (IICRC Condition 2) and impact long-term indoor air quality, even when standards are followed.
Laboratory findings from air, tape, and mycotoxin samples collected before, during, and after remediation will be shared, highlighting the value of using a protective barrier over insulation. This session is essential for remediation contractors and consultants developing effective and comprehensive protocols.
11:20 am | When Garage Floor Epoxies Go Wrong - A VOC Investigation, Luke von Oldenburg
Luke von Oldenburg
When you mix an epoxy flooring compound in your attached garage, you are creating a chemical reaction in your home. Join me as we investigate how a contractor took a short cut and created a chemical sensitivity scenario and how the site was investigated and abated. We will also answer the question: can poorly applied epoxy flooring affect the painted ceiling in the garage? Learn how to perform your own investigation.
12:10 pm Lunch Break in the Exhibit Hall
1:30 pm Exhibit Hall Closes
1:30 pm | Uncovering Hidden Threats: Mastering Mycotoxin Detection, Eric Althouse
Eric Althouse
This course will delve into the critical role of mycotoxins in assessing indoor environments and identifying hidden mold growth. Participants will learn how the detection of mycotoxins can uncover mold issues that may not be immediately visible, allowing for more accurate assessments of indoor air quality and potential health risks. This session will cover best practices for collecting mycotoxin samples from a variety of sources, including bulk materials, swabs, settled dust, vacuum, and air samples. Attendees will also gain insights into the mycotoxins commonly found in water-damaged buildings, with a focus on ensuring reliable laboratory results for accurate identification.
In addition, the session will explore a groundbreaking discovery concerning mycotoxins that affects up to 7 million housing units in the United States, underscoring the public health implications of mycotoxin contamination. This essential workshop will equip you with the tools and knowledge to assess, prevent, and enhance your expertise in detecting mold and mycotoxins, ultimately improving the safety of indoor environments.
1:30 pm | Beyond Compliance: How a Well-Executed Pre-Construction Asbestos Survey Benefits Contractors, Consultants, and Owners Alike, Kevin Hutton
Kevin Hutton
How to identify and limit errors that cause worker exposure, disruption to work, change orders, and delays.
This course:
IS: For all users of asbestos surveys
IS NOT: A “how-to” on asbestos surveys (maybe)
IS: “Why” we do asbestos surveys
IS NOT: About bashing inspectors (I am one)
IS: About how surveys affect the success of the project
IS: How to spot good and bad surveys
2:20 pm | Engaging Healthcare Providers to Increase Indoor Air Pollution Clinical Screening and Patient Education, Jill Heins-Nesvold, MPH
Jill Heins-Nesvold, MPH
The American Lung Association conducted a survey (December 2023–February 2024) of 901 healthcare professionals in the U.S. to assess their understanding and clinical experience with indoor air pollution. Analysis indicates that knowledge gaps exist, and clinical practices often overlook indoor air pollution exposure, potentially hindering patient care. In response, the American Lung Association has developed clinical tools and resources to help healthcare providers assess exposure and educate patients on mitigation strategies. These tools were pilot tested in select clinics and will guide future improvements. This presentation will share key survey findings, highlight lessons learned from pilot testing, and outline the Lung Association’s ongoing strategies to better equip providers to address indoor air quality in patient care. Learn how IAQ professionals can champion these tools to build relationships with healthcare providers.
2:20 pm | Passive vs. Aggressive Dust Sampling for Aerosol Source Detection, Onell González-Martinez, PhD, CIEC, CMA, LEED AP O&M
Onell González-Martinez, Ph.D., CIEC, CMA, LEED AP O&M
An IAQ assessment was conducted at a beachfront home in Dorado, PR to investigate potential contributors to upper respiratory symptoms (runny nose, congestion, sore throat, cough, sneezing). The study included airborne aerosol characterization, monitoring of particulates, VOCs, and psychrometric parameters, along with a qualitative inspection of building conditions affecting IAQ. Key allergen and contaminant reservoirs—carpets, upholstery, and soft furniture—were evaluated. Protocol included mimicking typical occupants’ activities (walking, sitting/standing up, opening/closing drawers, opening/closing doors, etc.) between consecutive sampling and monitoring periods, in order to evaluate reservoirs’ resuspension potential.
The findings highlight dust reservoirs as major indoor aerosol sources and the role of resuspension through normal activities. Understanding these factors is essential for mitigating allergen exposure and improving indoor air quality.
3:10 pm Refreshment Break
3:30 pm | Residential Ventilation Strategies for Healthy Air, Patrick Nielsen
Patrick Nielsen
The continuing effort to build dwellings that are extremely airtight and energy efficient is increasingly leading to concerns regarding insufficient ventilation and thus compromised indoor air quality, especially for those with respiratory issues such as asthma. Many homes now lack enough “natural” ventilation – that is, holes in the building envelope from leaky doors, windows and other openings, which can be a source of fresh air. While on-demand local bathroom and kitchen ventilation is important, the clear answer for both an efficient – and more importantly healthy home – is whole home ventilation.
Almost half of all states have now adopted codes requiring whole home ventilation in new construction. Conversely, while many older, leakier homes may be able to meet minimum ventilation standards relying on infiltration alone, the source of ventilation air is uncontrolled and can lead to excess pollutant entry from outdoors. This session will begin with a review of ventilation basics and include a review of three different whole home ventilation approaches – exhaust, supply, and balanced with recovery (ERVs).
3:30 pm | Inside the Case File: A Real-World Introduction to Expert Witness Work, Jeremy Beagle, CIH
Jeremy Beagle, CIH
Curious about adding expert witness work to your IH or indoor environmental consulting career? This session offers a behind-the-scenes look at the process through a real case involving mold contamination of clothing after a water loss. You'll learn about expert witness disclosure, how to build and support your opinion, and what to expect during deposition, motions to strike, and a Daubert hearing. By the end, you'll understand the key steps—and potential challenges—of expert witness work and how to prepare for them with confidence.
Conference Wrap Up
Evening Social Event: TBA
Post-Conference Workshop, Wednesday, June 4
8:00 am Registration Desk Opens
8:30 am - 5:00 pm | Assessment of Educational Facilities for Moisture Affected Areas and Fungal Contamination, Eric Shapiro, CIEC, CMC, CMRS and Jay M. Stake, CIE
Approved for 8 CEUs in Florida
To provide consistency and improve the assessment of educational facilities, a standard practice is needed to guide assessor(s) through a set of procedures with a goal of obtaining a healthy indoor environment for educational facilities.
IAQA’s new School Mold Standard provides uniform and repeatable procedures to identify areas in educational facilities and their associated materials, equipment, and systems that are affected by moisture available for fungal growth, or are suspected of fungal contamination, or have conditions associated with fungal contamination.
During this workshop, attendees will:
- Understand the Purpose of the Standard: Learn how the standard provides a structured approach for assessing educational facilities for moisture intrusion and fungal contamination.
- Define the Scope of Application: Gain clarity on when and how to apply the standard to on-site assessments, including its specific focus on fungal issues (excluding other biological contaminants).
- Explore Required Assessor Competencies: Discover the skills and expertise assessors must have, including knowledge of mold assessment, remediation strategies, and applicable regulatory frameworks.
- Identify Key Knowledge Areas: Examine the essential knowledge assessors need in building systems, including HVAC design, building science principles, regulatory requirements, communication practices, and indoor environmental quality.
- Learn Fungal Assessment and Remediation Protocols: Dive into practical guidance on identifying problem areas, understanding remediation fundamentals, and using appropriate sampling techniques.
- Recognize Safety and Regulatory Compliance Priorities: Understand the importance of health and safety practices and staying in compliance with local, state, federal, and tribal regulations.
We are pleased to welcome the following industry leaders to our exhibit hall:
BRONZE SPONSORS
Enthalpy Analytical LLC
Mycometer Inc
ICP – Fiberlock & Benefect
IICRC
Mikropor
Particles Plus, Inc.
Priority Lab
TSI Incorporated
U.S. Enzyme LLC
EXHIBITORS
More Soon!
Speakers & Biographies:
Eric Althouse
Eric Althouse
Eric Althouse has been providing consultation and environmental hygiene services relating to indoor environmental quality (IEQ) for 35 years. He is a Certified Indoor Air Quality Professional and a Florida- and Texas-licensed Mold Assessment Consultant. With 25 years of experience at private environmental consulting firms, Eric has developed a deep expertise in the field. Previously, Eric served the Florida Department of Education as the Director of Environmental, Health and Safety for all of Florida’s School Districts, Colleges and Universities. For over 20 years, he has been the President of Air Intellect, LLC, a consulting firm which specializes in IEQ assessments and building science. He has performed IEQ investigations, assessments and testing in over 4,500 buildings. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of South Alabama. He has co-authored articles related to fungal sampling and IEQ, including a book chapter on IEQ in the American Industrial Hygiene Association Engineering Manual. Currently, he serves as an Indoor Environmental advisor for Analytics Global, a laboratory specializing in advanced microbial and mycotoxin analysis.
Albert Baerren
Albert Baerren, CIEC
Mr. Baerren is the owner and President of AB Indoor Environments, a scientific consulting firm based in Palm Beach, Florida. Albert has a formal education in the forensic sciences, and over 24 years of diverse experience in using science to solve problems related to the indoor environment.
Since 2009, Mr. Baerren has successfully merged the two disciplines and applied his skill set to become one of Florida’s foremost experts on water damage and mold. He has always sought to understand emerging trends and is here today to provide us all with his unique perspective on the use of forensic science to evaluate reported events.
Jeremy Beagle
Jeremy Beagle, CIH
Mr. Beagle is a Senior Principal Scientist and Board-Certified Industrial Hygienist having over 20 years progressive experience in the consulting industry. His subject matter expertise includes determining the origin, cause and duration of water damage (plumbing failures, building envelope failures, HVAC etc), moisture related concerns and fungal growth in the indoor environment. Mr. Beagle’s expertise also includes, but is not limited to, smoke damage assessments, microbial assessments, chemical exposure assessments, and odor assessments. Mr. Beagle provides expert witness testimony and peer review services. He regularly presents at conferences and workshops throughout the country. He is a current board member of the IAQA and the Vice Chair for the IICRC S530 Mold Assessment Standard.
Robert Bennett
Robert Bennett, CMC, CMRS
Mr. Bennett has 33 years’ experience in Environmental Consulting. He is the President and owner of Farsight management Inc and has been in business as an Indoor Air Quality Consultant and Remedial Contractor for 24 years. He has completed approximately 6,000 indoor air quality site assessments. He has taught classes in completing Microbial Assessments to Home Inspectors for InterNACHI; classes on microbial and mycotoxin issues to Health Departments; and construction science and moisture control to Building Contractors and Maintenance Departments. Mr. Bennett has provided expert witness testimony for real estate transactions, construction craftsmanship issues and indoor air quality concerns.
He is the current/past director of the Indoor Air Quality Association for Northeast Ohio. He is a Certified Microbial Consultant and a Certified Microbial Remedial Supervisor by the American Council for Accredited Certification.
Courtney Boomer
Courtney Boomer
Courtney Boomer is a business strategist and operations expert specializing in helping home service businesses streamline their operations through automation and systems. With over a decade of experience in the concrete coatings and home service industry, Courtney has helped businesses scale by eliminating bottlenecks, increasing efficiency, and leveraging technology to improve profitability.
As the founder of ScaleUp with Courtney, she has helped countless service-based businesses implement management software, automate their workflows, and grow their revenue while reducing administrative headaches. A former Director of Operations, she combines systems, strategy, and technology to create scalable solutions that work for busy contractors and field service professionals.
Courtney brings real-world experience in running a coatings business, optimizing CRM systems, and implementing practical solutions that business owners can apply immediately.
Derrick Denis
Derrick A. Denis, CIAQP, CIEC, CAC, CEOP
Mr. Denis is a practitioner, inventor, educator, author and volunteer, who has provided professional industrial hygiene (IH), environmental health and safety (EH&S), infection control (IC), and indoor environmental quality (IEQ) services domestically and abroad for over 31 years. He is a sought-after presenter, who has provided hundreds of educational sessions for associations around the world. As a subject matter expert, Mr. Denis has appeared on television programs, been interviewed on radio talk shows, written and headlined educational videos, been quoted in major and local newspapers, authored many industry articles, and been published in peer-reviewed scientific literature. Mr. Denis’ long history of volunteerism has included positions on numerous Boards of Directors for IEQ Industry Organizations, including IAQA, Environmental Information Association Arizona Chapter (EIA-AZ), American Council for Accredited Certifications (ACAC), and more. Since 2000 Mr. Derrick A. Denis has been the Senior Vice President for Clark Seif Clark, Inc. (CSC), an environmental consulting and industrial hygiene testing firm. Mr. Denis is an inventor of, and patent holder for, Sewer Gas Solutions®, a pourable product that inhibits evaporation of water from plumbing traps (p-traps), thereby preventing sewer gas and sewer pest infiltration into buildings. Mr. Denis is also the inventor of the disposable fit test hood.
Luke Gard
Luke Gard, CIEC, CMC, BOC
Healthy School Program Manager
Environmental Health Program|Strategy, Innovation, and Partnerships
Children's Mercy Hospitals and Clinics
Kansas City, MO
Onell González-Martínez
Onell González-Martínez, PhD, CIEC, CMA, LEED AP O&M
Onell González-Martínez holds a BSc in Natural Sciences from the University of Puerto Rico and earned both MSc and PhD degrees in Sustainability with a focus on Building Science from the San Francisco Institute of Architecture. He is a Council-certified Indoor Environmental Consultant, EPA/PRDRNA-accredited Lead-Based Paint and Asbestos Inspector, EPA/PRDRNA-accredited Asbestos Air Sampling Specialist, Certified Mold Assessor, LEED AP O+M, and Registered Specialist in Exposure Decision Analysis (AIHA).
With over 15 years of experience, Mr. González leads Zimmetry’s Industrial Hygiene division, overseeing training, development, and project management. He has conducted approximately 2,000 environmental building assessments across diverse property types. He is a member of ASTM subcommittees on asbestos and microbial assessment, serves as an NSF proposal reviewer, and is a published technical writer and expert witness in industrial hygiene and sustainability.
Carl Grimes
Carl Grimes, HHS, CIEC
Carl Grimes has worked with people who feel better when they leave their house for over 30 years. He entered this industry because of the experiences he had in his own home. Starting in the mid-1980s, he was functionally disabled for nearly three years, and it was another ten before he could work reliably. One of the many doctors suggested Mr. Grimes work with his patients on why they felt worse when at home, which led to a book in 1999: Starting Points for a Healthy Habitat. He was invited to speak at the first IAQA national conference, and served on the IICRC committees for the S520 and the S500.
Mr. Grimes served on the IAQA Board for 13 years, including two terms as President, and as VP of Practice for ISIAQ (International Society on Indoor Air Quality and Climate). He also served as an environmental resource for the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology medical practice parameters. He currently chairs ASHRAE Technical Committee 1.12, Moisture Management in Buildings, and is past Chair of the committee that updated Guideline 10, Interactions Affecting the Achievement of Acceptable Indoor Environments. He is currently the Director of Health Homes for Hayward Healthy Home Institute in Carmel, CA. Mr. Grimes continues to actively teach and present nationally and internationally about the link between objective buildings and subjective people.
Jill Heins-Nesvold
Jill Heins-Nesvold, MPH
Jill Heins-Nesvold serves as Nationwide Senior Director of Health Systems Improvement and Indoor Air Quality for the American Lung Association. She holds masters’ degrees in Health Management and Business Administration and has completed doctoral coursework in evaluation studies. Ms. Heins-Nesvold has over 35 years of public health and healthcare experience.
Kevin Hutton
Kevin Hutton
Kevin Hutton is President and CEO of EAST Centers of NY, a leading provider of asbestos, environmental, and safety training in western New York. He is the Environmental Information Association’s Treasurer, Asbestos Committee Co-Chairman, and Conference Chair. He serves as EAST's Training Director for AHERA Asbestos, NYS DOL Mold, and EPA Lead programs and serves as an expert witness in matters involving asbestos work practices. Kevin is also a certified OSHA Outreach trainer and an adjunct professor at the Rochester Institute of Technology.
Kevin is actively involved in his community, having served as President of the Board of Education in Spencerport, NY, and as President of PACNY (Professional Abatement Contractors of NY). In his spare time, Kevin enjoys landscape photography and photo-documenting urban decay in the northeast.
Yvette A. Mitchell
Yvette A. Mitchell, MS, BA, CRIE
Yvette Mitchell is an Environmental Program Manager in the Cleveland Division of Air Quality’s Outreach Program. Her primary duties include program and project management; stakeholder engagement; facilitator; supervisor; marketing and communications amongst other activities. She has been employed with the Cleveland Department of Public Health since 2018 where she was hired to create and develop the city’s first Indoor Air Quality Program.
She holds a Joint Master of Science Degree from Tufts University. Her studies included Urban and Environmental Policy and Planning (Environmental Justice) and Civil and Environmental Engineering (Public Health). Her interests include helping communities achieve environmental justice, health promotion, and disease prevention. One of the prominent areas of her work today includes updating the City of Cleveland’s Air Code Ordinance, which has not received any significant overhauls since 1977. One of the changes to be included is the formal establishment of the Indoor Air Quality Program, with the goal of helping to improve air quality for all residents regardless of age, race, income, zip code and other confounding factors.
Patrick Nielsen
Patrick Nielsen
Patrick Nielsen is the Global Technical Products Manager for Broan, a leading manufacturer of residential ventilation solutions. Patrick has 23 years of experience with Broan including roles in product development where he used his engineering background to launch a wide range of innovative ventilation products to solve a variety of IAQ and customer challenges. More recently his focus has been tracking industry trends, codes and standards and projecting longer-term product needs/opportunities. He is former chair of the Home Ventilating Institute (HVI) Board of Directors, chair of their Codes and Standards committee and is active in multiple other committees addressing industry issues. Patrick is also a member of ASHRAE, RESNET and EEBA.
Lisa J. Rogers
Lisa J. Rogers, FASTM
Lisa J. Rogers has been a science nerd since she could crawl, but it was when, at four years old, she made mud pies with poison ivy that lay the foundation of a lifelong focus in the environmental health and safety field. She has been very fortunate over her decades long career to rub elbows with kind and brilliant icons in the EHS and IAQ disciplines. Although she declines to be a name dropper, her experience earned her an invitation to participate on a NATO Science Advisory Committee developing international guidelines for indoor air quality issues.
Other things that occupy her time include:
• ASTM Fellow and Chair of ASTM committee, D22, Air Quality, and Chair of subcommittee D22.08 Assessment, Sampling, and Analysis of Microorganisms
• Head of US Technical Advisory Group (TAG) for TC 146 SC6 to the International Standards Organization (ISO).
• Member of the AIHA and the Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) Committee,
• President of Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA)
• Emeritus Director for the Board of the Environmental Information Association (EIA).
• Former member of ASHRAE Standard 62.1, Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality for 12 years
Since 2007, Lisa has served as President of Mycometer Inc., the US subsidiary of a Danish based technology firm.
Sydney Shafer
Sydney Shafer, MPH
Sydney Shafer just finished her second year of the PhD in Epidemiology & Biostatistics program at the University of Kentucky. She earned her Master of Public Health degree with a concentration in Epidemiology from the University of Kentucky in 2022, and her bachelor’s degree in public health from Wayne State University in 2019. Sydney began working with Dr. Erin Haynes’ lab last summer to analyze the SVOC wristband data collected after the train derailment in East Palestine, OH. She produced and shared reports with each participant detailing their own chemical levels and how they compared to others' in the study.
Eric Shapiro
Eric Shapiro, CIEC, CMC, CMRS
Eric Shapiro has been working in our profession for 29 years, with experience in HVAC air-duct cleaning, mold remediation and assessments, and healthy homes. Eric presented the first Healthy Home Specialist course in Australia in May 2009 for the Western Australia Department of Health. Notably, he also presented a case study on “Physical Factors and Distribution of Fungal Contamination in a High-Rise Building” at the International Conference on Bioaerosols Fungi, Bacteria, Mycotoxins and Human Health, Saratoga Springs, NY 2003. Eric has taught several certification preparatory classes for over 10 years for NAETI, in Ocean, NJ. Other work includes project oversight for duct cleaning and refurbishment at the Homeland Security Building in 2002; and he was boots on the ground during Hurricane Katrina, Hurricane Wilma, the Nashville floods in 2010, and SuperStorm Sandy. Eric currently serves on the board of IAQA.
Jay M. Stake
Jay M. Stake, CIE
Jay M. Stake is the Owner of J. & J. Consultants, a construction and indoor air quality assessment firm established in 1992, and President of Structural Sciences, Inc. (SSI), established in 2006, which focuses on serving the relocation industry.
In addition to a diverse background in crisis management, manufacturing and real estate, Jay also provides training to indoor environmentalists and renovators, most recently as an adjunct instructor in Environmental Sciences for Greenville Technical College. In 1998, Jay joined the Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) and has been actively involved in the association ever since, attending the annual conferences, volunteering on a variety of committees, and serving on the Board of Directors. He was elected President of IAQA in 2018 and currently serves on the Board as Immediate Past President. He is also very involved with the standards in the Indoor Air Quality arena with the goal of bringing consistency to the industry. As a community-based business, charitable causes have always been an important part of Jay’s activities.
Luke von Oldenburg
Luke von Oldenburg
Luke von Oldenburg is an environmental chemist, a certified industrial hygienist, and serves on the board and as education chair of IAQA. He has been investigating and testing hazardous/ chemically impacted sites as a contractor for the US EPA since 2007. He has performed VOC investigations for the military, government agencies, private industries, residential, and the VA. He is also a consultant for the SAG-AFTRA movie industry.
Dr. Trevor Wilkins
Dr. Trevor Wilkins, PhD, LPCC-S, NCC, CCTP
Dr. Trevor Wilkins is an anger, trauma, stress, and PTSD specialist dedicated to serving high performers, public safety professionals, military personnel, and adults with childhood trauma. With a background in law enforcement, firefighting, and emergency medicine, he brings firsthand experience to his work at The NeuroTrauma Project. Dr. Wilkins combines Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy and Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to deliver an aggressive, no-nonsense approach to mental health. He is a sought-after speaker, adjunct professor, and Clinical Mental Health Director for The Wounded Blue, advocating for trauma recovery with a balance of scientific rigor and practical application.
Stanley Yeskolski
Stanley Yeskolski, CIEC, CMC, CMI
Stanley Yeskolski was educated in science and business. He began consulting on construction and inspection projects in 1998 after twenty years of working in farming, real estate, insurance, owning a restaurant/bar, and working in the construction industry. Stanley has forty years of combined experience in the construction and inspection industries, as well as educating other professionals. In addition to presenting at education conferences, he currently teaches home inspection and construction courses at his Building Practices and Trades School. He has focused on building investigations and IAQ since 1998. He is a dedicated and accomplished professional who serves with integrity and care. Stanley currently serves as the First Vice President of the IAQA Board of Directors.
