OneAEC Member since.
OneAEC Member since 2012 (or earlier, back when we were still Marketing Associates of Spokane – MAS). I served on the Board during the MAS days and was the “Social Media” chair as we figured out how to reach people on their cellular phones instead of through phone books – RIP yellow pages!
What value does OneAEC Membership bring to you?
OneAEC keeps me connected to the Spokane AEC community in a meaningful way. It provides consistent opportunities to learn, share ideas, and build relationships that have helped both personally and professionally over the years. Even as an “old dog,” I still value the mix of education, networking, and camaraderie.
Tell us about a specific OneAEC meeting or event that you found to be of professional and/or personal value.
One that stands out was an early MAS/OneAEC session on digital marketing and emerging communication tools. It helped our whole group navigate the shift away from traditional directories and toward online and mobile outreach. The discussion was practical, forward-thinking, and directly applicable to the work we were all doing at the time.
What do you enjoy about OneAEC’s socials?
I enjoy the relaxed atmosphere where you can catch up with colleagues outside the usual meeting format. The socials make it easy to reconnect with familiar faces and meet new people in the AEC industry in a fun, low-pressure setting.
Anything else you would like to add related to your experiences with OneAEC?
I’m grateful for the friendships and professional growth OneAEC has provided over the years. It’s been rewarding to watch the organization evolve while staying true to its roots of supporting marketing and business development professionals in the Spokane AEC community. I still look forward to every event.
I have been a OneAEC member since 2004.
OneAEC regularly brings together A/E/C professionals in a collaborative environment, allowing industry professionals to discuss opportunities and challenges that impact us as a whole. Our industry, like many others, is in flux and therefore adaptation to change is imperative. OneAEC addresses these challenges whether through representative discussion panels, professional development, or training seminars. A range of topics are covered including industry specific themes, construction delivery methods, and best practices for professional presentations. OneAEC’s Board works hard to keep on top of trends that affect our A/E/C community.
One of my favorite meetings is the annual Education Panel. Diverse representatives from both higher education and K-12 schools are invited to give feedback on experiences from an owner’s perspective. The panel’s advice, criticisms, and hopes for the future tend to be very informative and are often based on recent experiences directly involving OneAEC members. As RFQ/SOQ requirements and delivery methods change, insight from a panel of experts is invaluable. Many panel members have noted, one-size does not fit all; however, discussions on what to do versus what not to do helps A/E/C members better understand priorities and selection committee expectations.
I have attended many conferences and seminars over my professional career. In almost every instance I come away with recurring criticism, I wish for more networking time. OneAEC Socials are really for this exact purpose. They offer A/E/C professionals in our community the opportunity to socialize, network, and connect with friends in an environment that is all about having a good time.
In both my professional career and school board role, a consistent piece of advice I pass along to students is how important networking is to their future success. In my experience, relationships are a precursor to success. At any given meeting, seminar or social, OneAEC offers invaluable opportunities to connect and open doors. Continued member involvement and recruitment greatly benefit our A/E/C industry in the region.
