M id A tlantic Real Estate Journal — Women in Business — October 21 - November 17, 2022 — 19D
www.marej.com
Women in Business
Tell us how and when you began your career in the profession you are in: After graduating from Wentworth In- stitute of Technol- ogy with a Bachelor of Science in Archi- tecture during the
Tell us how and when you began your career in the profession you are in: I started my career in sales in 2013, and transitioned into the Life Safety and Fire Protection industry in 2017. It was a smooth transition
Allison Calder Branch Manager Oliver Fire Protection & Security Years with company: 7.5 Years in construction industry: 10
Katie Hoogerwerff Contract Sales Oliver Fire Protection & Security Years with company: 1 Years in field: 5 Fire Protection Organizations/ Affiliations: Tentatively GBCA/CLC, CREW
2008/09 recession, finding a position in architecture was a challenge. I was a volunteer fire fighter for many years, so it was an easy decision for me to go back to school to attain my Associates degree in Applied Science in Fire Protection Engineering Technology. Partnering my background in architecture and my interest in fire safety has led me to my current career with Oliver Fire Protec - tion & Security. What is your current position? I oversee branch operation for Oliver’s NJ office. I also manage the projects that are awarded through our office. What was your greatest professional accomplishment in 2021? I accepted a promotion to take over branch operations of Oliver’s NJ office and it has been one of my greatest accomplishments thus far. Who or what has been the strongest influence on your career?
when deciding to come onboard with Oliver. Their team of sales representatives and project managers offered great guidance to propel my skills further into the industry. I feel as though I caught on very quickly and am now able to provide accurate pro - posals and am enjoying establishing long-lasting relationships with our customers. What is your current position? I am a Contract Sales Estimator of Automatic Fire Protection systems. How do you manage the work/life balance? In order to find balance with a very tight schedule between work life and home life, I am have become very diligent in getting my work done in a timely manner so I can be present for my family in the afternoons and evenings.
continued on page 20D
In addition to my lifelong interest in construction, the women that I have met through NAWIC (National Association of Women in Con - struction) inspire me every single day. I’ve met women who have worked in construc - tion since the 1960’s. Being in an industry with less than 10% women in 2022, it’s hard to believe how it would’ve been back then. I admire the tenac - ity and grit of those women. It’s because of them that I am in the position I am today. What were some of your early goals and did any- thing happen in you career /profession to enhance or change them? My childhood dream since I was eight years old was to be an architect. Although I did not continue to pursue architecture after graduation, I stayed in the construction industry. What unique qualities and or personality do you feel makes you most suc- cessful in your profession? I think my ‘go with the flow’ personality is critical in my line of work. Adapting to daily changes is essential. What outside activities do you enjoy during you free time? I enjoy hiking and travel. I am currently working towards a goal of visiting the high point in every state! What inspiring word of advice would you give to a young woman about to go into the field of commercial real estate or your allied field? Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want. You may be surprised that you actually get it. MAREJ
Service - Maintenance - Inspections Fire Protection & Security
We provide quality inspections & services Combine multiple facilities of any size to a single contractor for easy invoicing Hassle-free services scheduling Quick and easy to understand reports Friendly and courteous team 24/7 Emergency services & repairs 24hr continuous monitoring
FIRE PROTECTION & SECURITY OLIVER
Mid-Atlantic Region’s Inspection and Service Partner for Fire Protection & Security #1
Protection in
Call our offices today to schedule (610) 277-1331 (908) 832-5111 Pennsylvania New Jersey
in Follow us
Made with FlippingBook interactive PDF creator