Rachelle Branstetter | HDR Engineering, Inc.
In our member spotlight, Rachelle Branstetter takes time out of her busy day to chat with SMPS. Rachelle, who works for HDR Engineering, Inc. as their Alaska Area Marketing Manager, shares the rewards of her job and the benefits of being an SMPS member.
Q: How did you find your way to the AEC industry and your current firm?
A: Like almost everyone else, I found the AEC marketing industry by accident. My career started at a construction cost estimating firm, but during my last semester at UAA while pursuing an English Rhetoric degree, I took a marketing internship at an engineering firm. That experience sparked my passion for AEC marketing. In 2020, I joined HDR as a Senior Marketing Coordinator—right in the middle of the pandemic. Making a career shift during such an uncertain time was a challenge, but it was a risk worth taking. I now have the opportunity to work alongside incredibly talented professionals on impactful projects.
Q: What is your favorite part of the job?
A: I love the strategic side of marketing—digging into client motivators, crafting winning messaging, and collaborating with technical and business development teams. Understanding what drives clients and shaping proposals that resonate with them is both challenging and rewarding.
Q: What has been your most meaningful project?
A: The projects that stay with me the most are the ones that make a real difference in communities. Whether it's bringing first-service water to rural communities or working on transformative transportation projects like the Safer Seward Highway, knowing that our work improves lives is incredibly fulfilling.
Q: What are your challenges?
A: Deadlines, deadlines, deadlines. In this industry, they never stop!
Q: What was a pivotal point in your career?
A: Stepping into a management role a couple of years ago was a major turning point. It’s been a huge growth opportunity—both professionally and personally. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to partner with some amazing women, working together to win projects and support career development. That collaboration has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey.
Q: What advice would you give to someone who is about to enter the marketing or business development field?
A: Early in my career, someone told me, ‘Grab a seat at the table.’ That advice has stuck with me. Take every opportunity to visit project sites, attend client meetings, and immerse yourself in where the work is happening. Being present in those spaces helps you develop a deeper understanding of technical challenges and client needs—insights that are invaluable when crafting proposals and strategies. Also, find a mentor. I’ve been fortunate to have incredible mentors who have invested in me and shaped my career. Their guidance has been invaluable, and I encourage anyone entering the field to seek out mentors who can provide support and insight.
Q: How do you spend your time outside of work?
A: I am a huge bookworm. You can find me reading general literary fiction, as well as weird dystopian, sci-fi, and horror novels. I also enjoy hiking, spin class, and am passionate about disability advocacy.
Q: What does a typical day look like for you?
A: It’s a mix of strategizing, writing, and collaborating. My days are filled with proposal development, client research, and working closely with technical teams to craft winning strategies. And, of course, managing deadlines—it’s always a balancing act!
Q: Why is SMPS important to you?
A: SMPS has been instrumental in my career. It provides a strong network of peers, professional development opportunities, and a community that understands the challenges and rewards of AEC marketing. It’s a great resource for staying connected and continuing to grow in this field.
Q: Who inspires you?
A: My kids. I have two kids who somehow strike the perfect balance between always including others and questioning absolutely everything. They are creative, outside-the-box thinkers, and I’m inspired by their tenacity and compassion.
Q: Who would you choose to switch places with for a day?
A: I’d love to switch places with a Broadway performer. I can’t sing or dance to save my life, but experiencing the energy and excitement of a live performance from that perspective would be incredible.
Q: Would you rather attend a sporting event, concert, or neither?
A: A Broadway musical—hands down!
Q: Who do you consider a role model?
A: I’ve had the privilege of working with so many incredible professionals in the AEC industry who have helped shape my career. My role models are the leaders who take the time to mentor and uplift others while pushing for excellence.
Q: Guilty pleasure: What can you not live without?
A: Trashy reality TV shows. I’ve binged every season of Love is Blind, and I recently discovered the 90 Day Fiancé universe. It’s my ultimate escape!
Q: What’s on your bucket list?
A: Hiking in the Dolomites, Norway, and Scotland! Exploring those landscapes is something I’ve always wanted to do.
