Member Spotlight: Michelle Rodrigue
Each month we try to feature a Chapter member, asking them about SMPS and more. Find out below how Michelle got into the A/E/C industry, her “more than a hobby,” her favorite vacation spot, and much more!
What led you to the A/E/C industry?
Nine years ago, a friend reached out to me letting me know that her engineering firm needed a marketing coordinator. The role made me realize that I enjoyed the world of proposals more than the B2C marketing that I was doing at previous firms and I have stayed in the industry ever since.
Why did you join SMPS and/or why do you continue to be a member?
I started my SMPS journey with the LA chapter attending skill building workshops and networking events. Once moving to the Bay Area, I quickly joined the SF Bay Chapter and knew I wanted a bigger role in the organization that helped me so much in my early career. I’m now the job bank manager as part of the membership committee. I enjoy connecting with other marketers, sharing best practices, and venting a little about troublesome proposals!
Do you have a favorite job task?
I would say my favorite part of the process is interview prep.
Do you have a least favorite job task?
Scheduling meetings for more than six people that will work best for everyone.
Hint: There’s never a time that works best for everyone.
Do you work from home, in the office, or a hybrid?
Hybrid: I typically work three days at home and two days in the office and I always go into the office on Thursdays, aka: bagel day!
Do you have any hobbies?
I am an avid swimmer and part of the Masters swim team, MEMO, in Alameda. I regularly train in the mornings before work and complete occasionally. I was recently able to represent the USA at the 2023 World Master Championships in Japan, where I swam 5 individual events and 4 relays. My 200 IM relay team won the gold (by 0.7 seconds!), while my 200-freestyle relay team won the silver for the US! It was an extraordinary experience to compete with others all around the world and to meet other like-minded athletes. Perhaps it’s a little more than a hobby!
Do you have a favorite TV show?
The Office. I quote this show way too much.
Do you have a favorite local restaurant?
Trader Vic’s in Emeryville.
Is there any vacation spot you recommend?
Rarotonga, Cook Islands. It’s a 6-mile-wide island in the middle of the South Pacific with no internet connection and one road. I could spend months there, but I only went for a week.
Do you have a secret skill?
I have a passion for astronomy and can name most of the constellations.
What do you like to do most in your free time?
Swimming, rock climbing, board game nights, going to the Alamo theater in the Mission, and buying more plants for my apartment.
