Member Spotlight: Elaine Moal

ELAINE MOAL
Director of Marketing + Business Development
Altura Associates

What led you to the A/E/C industry?
Creative talent. I was transitioning away from radio broadcasting after 13 years. Even though the industry was full of dynamic, colorful on- and off-air personalities, I felt that my passion for it was waning because the broadcasting world was changing significantly. Creativity was losing ground to corporate control. Through a warm connection at Dahlin Group Architecture Planning, I landed my first position in the A/E/C industry.

Why did you join SMPS and/or why do you continue to be a member?
SMPS is a sophisticated network that is invaluable, expansive, and fruitful on multiple levels. Initially, for me, SMPS was “A/E/C 101” – foundational learning, such as what is the “A”, the “E”, and the “C”, the acronyms, the vernacular, and so on. At some point, it evolved to higher-level professional development and networking. At this moment, right now, I know that I can count on any member, whether I have known that person for 15 years or 15 minutes, to lend a helping hand with just about any request - professional or personal. I love SMPS!

Do you work from home, in the office, or a hybrid?
Hybrid. I love Altura for many reasons. One is the flexibility to work from just about anywhere. About half the team is assigned to one of our physical offices, while the rest of the team works remotely from all around the country. When I am pushing hard deadlines, I stay put at home to allow me uninterrupted time for strategic thinking. In between, I enjoy being in the Oakland and Newport Beach offices for eyeball-to-eyeball collaboration.

How has 2020-2021 changed you?
I feel even more passionate about my career than ever before. It is a combination of factors, primarily driven by joining a firm with inspiring future-forward leadership. The environment is highly trusting. Every person on the team is empowered to bring their best self… and everyone delivers exactly that. Altura’s culture is exceptional.

Any hobbies?
In addition to a variety of Peloton classes, inventive culinary creations, and hiking new trails, I love my role as an adult leader for my son’s Boy Scout Troop. From coaching the Scouts with leadership skills to organizing week-long summer camp outings, I feel greatly rewarded by my involvement. I also enjoy engaging in their activities, especially field sports.

Favorite TV show? The Mandalorian + The World According to Jeff Goldblum.

Favorite movie? Cruella. I love the story, the costumes, the music. Super excited for the next Cruella movie.

Favorite local restaurant? Bridges in Danville.

Favorite local spot? The Ferry Building on Saturday mornings. It’s vibrant, full of activity and energy, lots to eat, drink, and do, with an awesome mix of people. It’s colorful and truly a slice of life in the Bay Area.

Vacation spot you recommend?
Catalina. For a short regional getaway, it is easy to get to – the ferry ride is part of the experience. Avalon feels like a quaint European town. Driving around in a golf cart is entertaining.

Any upcoming vacation plans?
I am super excited for an uncommon family road trip this summer. We will be hitting the highway in our 1955 Chevy to participate in Northwest Deuce Days, a triennial car event in Victoria, British Columbia. Along with spending uninterrupted time with my husband and son, traveling off the beaten path and exploring obscure spots is what I am looking forward to the most.

What do you like to do most in your free time?
Hop on an ATV, open-up the throttle, and unleash. My favorite terrain: dunes or desert. The muddier I get, the better.