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TZL: Back in 2011, when you first entered the AEC in- dustry, what was your biggest challenge and how did you overcome it? MA: Like many interns, I had to learn how to relate to re- al-world challenges. In our profession, no two projects are identical, so I had to learn how to apply those foundational concepts and problem-solving skills to each individual situ- ation, and to convey those solutions in a set of documents that could actually be used in construction. The satisfaction of solving these problems was similar to college; only this time, instead of a letter grade, the reward was a building; better than an individual accomplishment, it was a positive impact on a community. TZL: On the other hand, what was easier than you thought it would be? MA: The transition from classmates to co-workers was easi- er than expected. In college, we worked together to make it through one of the most rigorous majors we could have cho- sen. Entering the industry, I was pleased to find the same collaborative mentality, with everyone coming together to solve exceedingly difficult problems, and come up with the best solutions possible. I wasn’t treated as an intern or rookie, but rather as a valued member of the team. My peers and leaders respected my perspective and supported me in the transition to the industry. “I think our generation wants to be a part of something bigger than ourselves. We want to ensure that what we do every day, including our careers, has a positive effect on our world.” TZL: What do today’s CEOs and firm leaders need to know about the younger generation? MA: In my experience with my peers, I think our generation wants to be a part of something bigger than ourselves. We want to ensure that what we do every day, including our ca- reers, has a positive effect on our world. Through our proj- ects, we want to create solutions that are meaningful, con- scious of their environmental impact, and will make com- munities better for the current and future generations. Be- yond our professional work, I think many of us also like to be hands-on in making an impact, and gravitate toward a company that shares this desire. TZL: What is the biggest mistake you’ve made and what was the lesson learned? MA: In general, one of my biggest mistakes has been a lack of confidence. I’ve always had nothing but the greatest sup- port system my entire life. Yet, when I jumped into my ca- reer, or even my first quarter in graduate school, I was in- timidated. You feel as though you are surrounded by genius- es who know everything and it can be hard to think that you can ever reach their level of expertise and understanding. The learning curve is so steep when we enter our careers and we know we don’t have all the answers. However, recogniz- ing that lack of confidence was only going to hinder my po- tential and keep me from reaching all that I could become

has made me work even harder to improve. I’ve found sol- ace in recognizing that this industry is ever-changing, that we will always be learning, and that I’m also surrounded by selfless experts eager to share their knowledge and mentor me along this journey. TZL: There’s an increasing interest in the business side of the AEC business. Do you think the college curriculum could use a few non-technical courses? If so, what are your recommendations? MA: I think it is very important for everyone to understand the basics of business and how a firm operates as a whole. The more the individuals in a firm understand how we each play a role in the overall success of a business, the more ca- pable we are in helping the firm run effectively. At my first internship, I was fortunate enough to gain some experience in the financial aspects of the company, assisting with pay- roll, billings, and taxes, among other office management du- ties. This exposure stoked my interested in business and led me to enroll in an accounting course during graduate school, which introduced me to assets, liabilities, and the many other considerations of operating a business. In my current position, these principles have helped me manage projects and understand the associated financials. I certainly don’t claim to be a business expert (far from it), but I hope to con- tinue my growth in this area, as I realize how crucial it is to the financial health of individual projects and the company as a whole. In addition to business courses, other valuable courses would introduce students to soft skills, like commu- nication, leadership, and project-solving skills. The AEC in- dustry, like many others, is based on much more than tech- nical abilities. The more you can supplement your technical knowledge with business savvy and soft skills, the better. TZL: You received TETER’s 2018 Be Inspirational award for your work ethic and ability to finish a project. De- scribe being honored by your peers and how the celebra- tion fits into the company’s culture. MA: First, I was extremely humbled, and also a bit shocked to receive this award, as I am surrounded by peers who in- spire me on a daily basis. “Teople” are the heart of TETER, and we all strive to be EPIC (exceptional, professional, in- spirational, and connected to each other, our community, and our clients). These core values drive the work we do. Ev- eryone from our youngest interns fresh out of college and eager to contribute, to the servant leaders among our part- ners, associates, and veteran staff, exhibit these values, and I am grateful to be among colleagues who are as compas- sionate and selfless as they are hard-working and dedicated. That’s what makes this peer-voted award so meaningful and special to me, as it comes from those who daily demonstrate what it means to “Be EPIC.” TZL: Volunteering at an animal shelter. Mentoring high school students. Youth soccer and summer camp. What drives the philanthropic side of your life? MA: I know I wouldn’t be in the position I am today with- out the mentorship and encouragement I received from my parents, friends, co-workers, professors, and coaches who took the time to help me grow, and who continue to help me today. I am incredibly grateful for those who have invested See INCREDIBLY GRATEFUL, page 8

rch 18, 2019, ISSUE 1288

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