Member Spotlight: Melanie Conrad

Each month we try to feature a Chapter member, asking them about SMPS and more. Find out below how Melanie got into the A/E/C industry, her unusual favorite local spot, and other items of interest!

 
Melanie Conrad
Senior Marketing Coordinator
Fehr & Peers

What led you to the A/E/C industry?
Coincidence and good timing! The company I was with—a big law firm—ended up suddenly folding, forcing me into a pretty quick job hunt. It was a blessing in disguise, as working all day around people suing each other had started to take its toll. I wanted to work in a place where people truly cared about the work they do in connection to the surrounding community, and where the only thing that mattered wasn’t how many millions you could win in a lawsuit. I looked at insurance companies, other law firms, and local sports teams to name a few, but none of it felt quite right until I started learning about A/E/C companies—the tangible projects everywhere I looked, the efforts to further the industry through research and practice, and the fact that everyone I talked to genuinely cared about and was proud of their work. I knew I had found the right industry for me, and I’ve never looked back.

Why did you join SMPS and/or why do you continue to be a member?
Coming into A/E/C from a completely different industry was a little overwhelming, so I jumped at the chance to join a group of my new peers. I continue to be a member because I appreciate the sense of community within SMPS – it’s a connection for me both within my company and externally. I’ve also been able to continue my professional development through SMPS training programs, and just generally really appreciate the community of people who understand what I go through in my job every day.

What’s your favorite job task?
Getting to hit “submit” on a proposal.

Do you work from home, in the office, or a hybrid?
Hybrid for about a month and a half now, after two full years at home.

How has 2020-2021 changed you?
I’ve learned to find more silver linings and appreciate the little things. I will also never again take for granted the ability to spend time with loved ones.

Any hobbies?
Travel, reading, and extremely amateur baking.

Favorite movie?
The Princess Bride

Favorite Book?
The Lord of the Rings.

Favorite Local Spot?
It’s super random, but there’s a life-size whale statue outside the Lawrence Hall of Science on the Cal campus. Since it’s way up in the hills, there’s a fantastic panorama view of San Francisco and the Bay Area. Whales are my favorite animal, and I love going up there super early in the morning to watch the sun rise over the Bay.

Vacation spot you recommend?
Greece, Australia, and New Zealand

Any upcoming vacation plans?
A safari trip to Africa this summer with my family. It’s a bucket list item that was originally planned for summer 2020, so the anticipation has been building up for over two years now!

What do you like to do most in your free time?
Go to the beach and cheer on my sports teams (Go A’s, Go Warriors!).