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I am one of two principals with OWH and am the lead business development and marketing person for the firm.  I have been with SMPS for over 25 years and have been a semi-active member participating in the many events provided by SMPS.

Since becoming a SMPS member, what do you believe were the biggest changes over the years?  The biggest changes in my career is removing the stigma of marketing from the profession.  It used to be a three martini lunch that got the next project.  Now it is much more sophiscated, tangible and equitable.

You have been a member of SMPS for 25 years. What kept you coming back year after year and wanting to be a member? Good programs and good interaction with other members

Similar to the SMPS question, after your years in the AEC industry, what do you believe have been the biggest changes to the industry over time? The level of professionalism in the marketing industry has greatly improved and certainly the technology is immense in how we deliver our messages.

In your role, what do you find to be the most rewarding aspects? And the most challenging? The most rewarding are the relationships we develop with our clients, our consultants and our peers.  The most challenging is keeping good people on board.

If you were put in front of a room of AEC marketing/business development professionals who were new to the industry, what are three pieces of advice you would tell them as they begin in this industry? First, understand who you are and what you are promoting.  Don’t overextend.  Second, make sure your people are on board with your marketing/business development work and are participating with you.  Third, treasure your clients and treat them well.

With your retirement looming at the end of this year, do you already have a bucket list of things you wish to do when you retire? If so, what are the things you are looking forward to the most? I am still trying to figure that out but I definitely want to travel, work in the yard, teach swimming, keep knitting and do more artwork.