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Member Spotlight |Michelle Yates

Posted by [email protected] on Nov. 19, 2025  /  Subscribe 0

Michelle started at Lochner in July 2024 as Regional Director of Marketing and Business Development. Lochner is an infrastructure services provider with more than 1,200 employees across 22 states, and she leads a team of marketers covering the east region, which is primarily focused on bridges and structures, highways and roads, and transit and rail. Michelle also helps facilitate client management programs and provides training in marketing and business development.

How has SMPS helped you in your career? What has been the most memorable SMPS event? What is the most important thing you have gained since joining SMPS? 

The network of people and long-lasting relationships have been the most important benefits of joining SMPS. It has also provided me with multiple leadership and learning opportunities that have contributed to my career development. Some of my favorite memories are from spending time with St. Louis members at national conferences.

What has kept you a member of SMPS for all these years? What makes the SMPS St. Louis Chapter unique? 

I believe in the value of SMPS and its members. In my experience, members have consistently been open to sharing their knowledge and engaging in honest discussions. Since I first joined, there have always been educational opportunities available to support me in my role.

SMPS was incorporated in St. Louis, and our chapter continues to be a leader. Our membership has grown significantly over the years, and St. Louis continues to offer high-quality programs for its members. 

What has been your most significant achievement in your career? Why do you feel this was important? 

Becoming an SMPS Fellow was one of the highlights of my career. Going through the application process created a detailed roadmap of my accomplishments, and I’m grateful for all the ways that so many SMPS members supported me. I’m happy to help others achieve their fellowship designation, so please don't hesitate to reach out if you’re interested.

When you were young, what did you want to be when you grew up? And why?

I was a big fan of Nancy Drew, so I thought I’d become a detective or have some crime-fighting job. When I graduated from college, I “accidentally” landed a job in marketing at HOK, which marked the beginning of my AEC journey.

What advice would you give someone new to the AEC Industry?

Take the time to get to know other members. Grab coffee or lunch, and stay in touch. The sooner you start to build relationships, the bigger and stronger your network will be. 

I also recommend saying “yes” to leadership opportunities such as board or committee service. These types of roles broaden your perspective and facilitate great relationships. And, it looks great on a resume!

Finally, always keep learning. Although I’ve been in the industry a long time, I consider myself a work in progress. Two books that inspired me early on were "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People" by Stephen Covey and "The Project 50" by Tom Peters. There is always something new to learn from an SMPS or industry event, book, podcast, etc.

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