Soliman Abusamra
| Alto |
| As a member of CNAM’s Board of Directors for the past four years, I have had the distinct honor of collaborating with leaders in asset management. CNAM stands as a pivotal association for infrastructure asset management professionals, fostering connections, sharing insights, and advancing industry knowledge across Canada and beyond. I am enthusiastic about continuing my service and supporting the growth of CNAM and the asset management sector. My vision for CNAM is to further assist organizations in embracing infrastructure asset management by raising awareness of its significance. This heightened awareness will enable organizations to prioritize asset management within their operations and service delivery. I aim to empower asset management professionals to articulate the narrative behind infrastructure assets. This can be achieved through creativity and the promotion of innovative methodologies and approaches that underpin the asset management industry, while encouraging connectivity among members. CNAM has established various platforms, including the annual conference, webinars, knowledge pods, and the fall summit, to facilitate the exchange of ideas, efforts, and challenges. I believe that transparent dialogues offer opportunities for knowledge and capacity building, addressing the needs of asset management professionals both in Canada and globally. As a leader in the infrastructure asset management industry, CNAM serves as a hub of information, best practices, and relationships. The association has developed a robust and forward-looking strategic plan to guide ongoing efforts in creating value for our members and fostering relationships throughout the asset management industry. Building upon CNAM’s strategic plan is crucial, as it reflects the needs of the public infrastructure asset management community. Implementing the strategic plan will highlight the opportunities and risks facing CNAM, including strategies to enhance the value of CNAM membership and strengthen relationships with industry organizations. This can be achieved by seeking feedback to identify trends, strengths, and areas for improvement. In addition to the member survey, I advocate for enhanced communication to educate members about CNAM’s mission, goals, and the benefits of membership, thereby propelling CNAM to the forefront of asset management organizations. Engaging with members about their industry concerns and challenges will guide CNAM in providing leadership in an ever-evolving environment. As Vice-Chair, I would take decisive action to continue implementing CNAM’s strategic plan and strive to make CNAM an inclusive organization for all professionals managing infrastructure assets. CNAM represents the collective voice of asset management professionals on a national scale, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to its future. |
| Dr. Soliman Abusamra is a distinguished senior leader with over 15 years of experience spearheading innovative initiatives, executing and managing major infrastructure projects. Currently, he serves as the Director of Commercial and Contracts at Alto – Highspeed Rail (HSR), Canada’s largest infrastructure undertaking, where he is responsible for overseeing contract management and commercial structuring. His dedication to advancing resilient and sustainable infrastructure reflects his commitment to supporting future generations. He earned his Ph.D. in Civil Engineering with a focus on Asset Management from Concordia University. He has authored several books, journal articles, and conference papers on municipal infrastructure asset management. His thought leadership is further demonstrated through speaking engagements at notable conferences, including TED Talks, and other media appearances. He has participated in industry forums such as the IAM and has served as a lecturer at Toronto Metropolitan University. He has been volunteering with the CNAM Board of Directors since almost 3 years, co-chairing CNAM’s 2025 National Conference, and leading the Communications and Marketing Committee. |
Shekar Sharma
| Vancouver Airport Authority |
| As a long-standing advocate for asset management excellence in Canada, I am honored to submit my candidacy for Vice Chair of CNAM. My vision is to strengthen CNAM’s role as the national leader in asset management knowledge, collaboration, and innovation. By leveraging my experience in data integrity, strategic asset planning, and industry engagement, I will contribute to advancing CNAM’s mission and ensuring it remains the trusted voice for asset management professionals across Canada. My Vision for CNAM If elected as Vice Chair, I will focus on three key priorities: 1. Enhancing CNAM’s Role as a Knowledge Hub o Asset management is evolving rapidly, and professionals need reliable, accessible resources to navigate challenges. o As Chair of CNAM’s Knowledge Hub Committee, I have worked extensively on organizing webinars, conducting surveys, and developing resources, that bring value to CNAM members. o I aim to expand the Knowledge Hub, introducing more interactive tools, case studies, and practitioner-led discussions to drive engagement. 2. Strengthening Peer-to-Peer Connections & Community Building o Asset management is strongest when professionals can collaborate, share challenges, and learn from each other. o I have led initiatives with other passionate AMPs in Vancouver region to bring together practitioners by organizing informal events such as pub socials and formal events such as community of practice groups to create a space to discuss common issues and best practices. o As Vice Chair, I will work to expand CNAM’s regional engagement efforts, supporting more local initiatives and professional connections across Canada. 3. Advocating for Data-Driven Decision-Making & Innovation o My work at Vancouver Airport Authority focuses on ensuring data integrity and quality for asset management decisions. o Data plays a critical role in policy development, lifecycle planning, and investment strategies. I will also focus on driving organizational progress through reliance on data, from our members, committees and community. o I will work to strengthen CNAM’s advocacy efforts by helping members access the latest tools, research, and analytics to make informed decisions. Why Me? • Experience & Leadership: I have served as a CNAM Board Member, Chair of the Knowledge Hub Committee, and Co-Chair of CNAM’s Fall Virtual Summit (2024). • Passion for Collaboration: I have worked with diverse organizations and professionals to develop meaningful asset management initiatives. • Commitment to CNAM’s Mission: I believe in CNAM’s role as the leading voice for asset management in Canada and want to help expand its impact. I look forward to the opportunity to serve as Vice Chair and work alongside CNAM members to drive innovation, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing in asset management. Thank you for your support. |
| Shekar Sharma is a seasoned infrastructure asset management professional with over a decade of experience in the industry. As the Manager, Asset Data and Integrity at Vancouver Airport Authority (YVR), he leads a team dedicated to ensuring data integrity and quality across YVR’s asset portfolio. Shekar has a proven track record of supporting organizations in business decision-making and long-term planning through the development of asset management plans and data-driven strategies. An active member of CNAM, Shekar serves as a Board Member, Chair of the Knowledge Hub Committee, and Co-Chair of CNAM’s Fall Virtual Summit (2024). |