Meet
Laurie
Barkman
Your Growth Strategist
I’ve always been
excited by building value.
Growing up, I launched my first services business at age 10, mowing lawns, raking leaves, and babysitting. In high school, I leaned into leadership, learned how to address challenges head-on, and make a lasting impact on my community.
That drive to build winning teams took me to Cornell University, where I studied Industrial and Labor Relations. I began my career at Ingersoll-Rand, a global engineering firm, working shoulder-to-shoulder with engineers and plant teams to reengineer operational processes for productivity and cost improvements. It was there that I first saw how analytical, technical leaders think.
Massive potential gets unlocked
when you’re supported by strong
systems and scalable strategy.
Later, I earned my MBA from Carnegie Mellon University, intentionally choosing a rigorous quantitative program to refine the analytical skills I knew I’d need to lead and advise in structured, technical environments. Over the years, I built a career spanning Fortune 500s and startups, leading teams through high-growth transformation, including time in logistics, SaaS, e-commerce, and operations, often in collaboration with engineers, data-driven founders, and technical teams.
But the biggest turning point came when I was tapped to lead a $100 million company as CEO.
The search was part of a long-term succession plan. A third-generation family business and leading transportation and logistics company in North America sought a new divisional CEO. In the interview process, I was told, “We’re not interviewing you for the next 2 years…we’re interviewing you for the next 20.” Playing the long game excited me. Taking on this role was a perfect storm of high expectations, internal resistance, and every eye was watching. I wasn’t necessarily who they expected, but I knew how to create value. I steadied the ship and shifted mindsets towards transformation. Eventually, we guided the company to a successful sale to a Global Fortune 50 company. After the acquisition was completed, I stayed on as a senior executive and served on the Integration Steering Committee, advising on the launch of new e-commerce fulfillment services.
Back to the original notion of staying in the company for 20 years. As things played out, my tenure was only three. Was I disappointed? Heck no. I realized that while we may have a plan, sometimes plans change for good reason. The acquisition “put some money in my jeans” and gave me the flexibility to pursue my entrepreneurial passions.
Great firms aren’t just built. They’re B.U.I.L.T.
With vision as the blueprint. With systems as the structure. And with leadership that supports a future-ready firm, even when you’re not in the room.
After the acquisition, I founded The Business Transition Sherpa® to work with founders who are stuck in the center of their business. These are often analytical, high-performing professionals in technical, project-based firms—like those in architecture, engineering, construction management, and related design services—who are ready to lead smarter and scale with intention. That leads me to today…
I Help AEC Firm Owners
who are overworked, over-relied on, and ready for more.
More freedom. More time. More choices.
Whether you want to take Fridays off, develop a second-in-command, or prepare for a future sale, I help you build a firm that can run and grow without you.
Using my proprietary B.U.I.L.T.™ Method, I work alongside founders to reduce owner dependency, increase enterprise value, and create a business that not only grows but also gives back to your life.
This isn’t about checking out. It’s about leveling up. Leading smarter. Living freer. And building a business that’s ready for whatever comes next.
BUILT
Other things
to know about me:
One of my superpowers is clarifying complex issues using a collaborative and analytic approach. It’s a big reason why analytical owners work with me to get RESULTS.
I serve as an Independent Advisory Board Member for family-owned enterprises, including a diversified construction services firm and a skilled nursing services business.
I’m a former Advisory Board Member of SafetyIO, a software company owned by MSA Safety that specializes in connected safety solutions for gas detection.
I’m also an adjunct professor of entrepreneurship at Carnegie Mellon University
I live in Pittsburgh with my husband, my college sweetheart, and we have two incredible kids.
I’m a gardener, podcast host, author, and someone who believes deeply that you didn’t build your firm to be a prison. You built it to be a path to freedom. Let’s make sure it is.
Real Results
from Owners
Like You
Like most things in business, planning is #1 priority. It’s important to also map out exit strategy, consider impact on personal values, and work towards these goals.
Christian CarrFSG
I believe succession planning is important and it’s never too soon to start.
Andrew HessProduction Products Inc.
This is information that all business owners need early in the life of the company.
ANTON BIZZELLThe Bizzell Group
You don’t have to
choose between growing your business and getting your life back.
Values I Live and Work By
Be real,
not polished
Authenticity beats appearance. I choose stories with scars over perfection without purpose.
Bounce back > look perfect
I believe in falling seven times and rising eight. Every comeback is a testament to character.
Always
get better
I never want to be a year older—only a year better.
Say the
hard thing
Courageous conversations change lives. I speak the truth in love (even when it’s uncomfortable) because real growth requires real talk.
Redefine
who you are
Your past doesn’t have the final say. Every chapter is a chance to rewrite the narrative.
Go again.
Then go again
Persistence fuels purpose. When it doesn’t go as planned, reset, refocus, and go again. And again. And again.
Lead
with humility
True leadership isn’t about being the loudest in the room. It’s about lifting others.
Book Laurie
to Speak
Hire a speaker who…
Moves rooms with strategy, stories, and straight talk
Uncovers blind spots and reframes the owner’s role
Brings real-world insight as a former CEO, M&A advisor, and Carnegie Mellon educator
Knows the AEC industry’s unique leadership and growth challenges
Laurie has been featured in
Signature Keynote
The Emotional and Practical Lessons Every AEC Firm Owner Needs Before Letting Go
Other Popular Talks
The Freedom Factor: Build a self-sustaining firm without burning out
From Growth to Legacy: Creating value beyond the founder
What’s Your Business Really Worth?: Demystifying valuation for technical firms
Laurie only accepts a limited number of speaking engagements per year.
Praise from Leaders Like You
Laurie educated and informed my CEO members about the life cycle of a business, helped non-owners understand how to create/build value, thwart complacency, innovate, and position a business for sale. Her style was engaging, down-to-earth, and she met the group exactly were they were!
Claudia Williams,
President, The Human Zone LLC
Laurie Barkman is an invaluable resource for entrepreneurs navigating succession planning. Her engaging and informative keynote presentation provides actionable insights, helping business owners think beyond 'who will take over' to focus on creating value and planning early. Her approachable style makes complex topics empowering and worth the time.
Tara Gerek
Assistant Membership Director,
The Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence
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Laurie Barkman
You don’t have to choose between growing your business and getting your life back.
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