Member Spotlight: Josh Mannix
Each month we try to feature a Chapter member, asking them about SMPS and more. Find out below how Josh got into the A/E/C industry, why he stays in SMPS, his favorite job task, hobbies, and much more!
What led you to the A/E/C industry?
I went to school for journalism and public relations, but I was always around the construction industry because my dad was a Superintendent. I even worked as a stocker/scrapper for a while. My dad connected me with some of the marketing folks at Swinerton, which led to a remote internship during my last semester at Chico State. After graduating in May 2023, I started full-time at Swinerton in June 2023.
Why did you join SMPS and/or why do you continue to be a member?
My manager, Cathy Kohatsu, recommended I join SMPS when I started full-time. I’ve continued to be a member because it helps me connect with others outside of Swinerton who are in similar roles. I also participated in the mentorship program about a year ago, which was helpful. I enjoy the online webinars, and even though I don’t attend as many events as I should, SMPS has been a great community.
Do you have a favorite SMPS event or program?
The mentorship program stands out—it gave me a chance to connect with people further along in their careers and learn from them. I also really enjoyed the 2024 Topaz Awards. It was a fun and inspiring event.
What are your main responsibilities at Swinerton?
I handle internal communications such as memos about new projects, new hires, and promotions. I also manage San Francisco swag for the company and help coordinate events. I do a lot of event and project photography—especially when it comes to self-performed work. Overall, I wear many hats and help with whatever is needed.
Do you have a favorite job task?
Definitely field photography—whether it’s at events or job sites. As someone who works hybrid, it’s nice to be outside, around people, and in the sunshine.
Do you have a least favorite job task?
Not really. If I do one thing for a long stretch, it can get tedious, but there isn’t a single task I dread.
Do you work from home, in the office, or a hybrid?
I’m hybrid. I work from home and go out into the field as needed.
Have you thought about where you want to go in A/E/C marketing?
I’m currently leaning more toward the communications side rather than proposals. I enjoy events and photography, which align well with communications and business development.
Do you have any hobbies?
I play rugby with a men’s club team in San Francisco and I’m part of the Swinerton softball team, which plays in the A/E/C San Francisco League. I also enjoy spending time with my girlfriend.
Do you have a favorite TV show or movie?
TV show: The Rehearsal by Nathan Fielder—it’s super interesting.
Movie: No Country for Old Men is my go-to when I can’t decide.
Do you have a favorite local restaurant?
The Laundromat on Balboa in San Francisco. They have incredible deep-dish pizza with sausage and cherry peppers, plus Brussels sprouts with balsamic honey glaze and feta—highly recommended!
Is there any vacation spot you recommend?
I recently went to Japan and loved Osaka for the food and nightlife. But my top recommendation would be Cork, Ireland—where my family is from. Great food, amazing beer, and super friendly people.
Do you have a secret skill?
Cooking! I usually start with a recipe and then make it my own. One of my favorite dishes to make is spicy mezcal rigatoni from the Knife Drop cookbook—it’s flambeed, which always impresses guests.
What do you like to do most in your free time?
Cooking, playing sports, exploring new restaurants, and spending time with my girlfriend.
