LaJuan Counts to chair World Demolition Summit

Leila Steed Editor, Demolition & Recycling International

25 October 2024

LaJuan Counts, the Executive Director of Detroit’s Construction and Demolition Department, has been named chair and moderator for this year’s World Demolition Summit (WDS) conference, which will take place next month in Stockholm, Sweden on the 6 and 7 November and is expected to attract over 400 demolition, deconstruction and civil engineering professionals from around the world.

LaJuan Counts, Executive Director for the City of Detroit. (PHOTO: City of Detroit)

LaJuan first became involved with WDS as a speaker at the 2023 event in Toronto, Canada, where she presented on strategic demolition planning. Following this, she was appointed the judging panel of the World Demolition Awards, further contributing to her active role in shaping the industry. s

With over 30 years of experience in construction and contractor management, LaJuan has overseen numerous major projects, including the strategic demolition of thousands of blighted properties in Detroit.

Her leadership in Detroit’s demolition initiatives, backed by a half-billion dollar budget, has earned her recognition, including being named a Michigan Chronicle Woman of Excellence in 2024.

In addition to also being a member of Wayne State University’s College of Civil and Environmental Advisory Board, last month, LaJuan was appointed as the President of National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Detroit Chapter #183.

Commenting on her role as chair of WDS 2024, LaJuan said: “I’m honoured to serve as chair/moderator for the 2024 World Demolition Summit conference.

“This conference is vital in bringing together industry leaders and driving innovation in demolition. Having participated in previous conferences, I’ve seen firsthand how these discussions push our field forward.

“I’m excited to contribute to this important dialogue and to work alongside other professionals shaping our industry’s future.”

LaJuan’s leadership and insight are set to add tremendous value to this year’s summit as the industry explores some of the world’s lastest demolition projects, new sustainability and asbestos regulations, and approaches to leadership and collaboration.

To attend the 2024 #WorldDemolitionSummit or to find out more, visit: World Demolition Summit | 6-7 November 2024 | Stockholm, Sweden