Jessy Post | Coffman Engineers
In this month's member spotlight, Jessy Post takes time out of her busy day to chat with SMPS. Jessy, who works for Coffman Engineers as their Communications Specialist, shares the rewards of her job and the benefits of being an SMPS member.
Q: How did you find your way to the A/E/C industry and your current firm?
A: It was kind of by chance. I was exploring other job opportunities when I came across a job posting for Coffman that seemed like it fit my skill set and professional goals. I’ve been in the marketing and communications field most of my career and have worked for a wide range of organizations, from newspapers and nonprofits to the governor’s office and to universities. I had never been exposed to the A/E/C industry as a potential career path, but it’s been a really great fit so far.
Q: What is your favorite part of the job?
A: I like how dynamic it is – I’m always doing something different, whether it’s writing and editing, design/layout, working on business development efforts, or coordinating and collaborating with staff on projects, activities, and events. I find creativity and challenge in all the variety.
Q: What has been your most meaningful project?
A: My greatest challenge is that I’m still new to the A/E/C industry. There are endless terms and jargon, projects to learn about, and best practices in every industry, so I think that will all become more familiar to me with more time and experience.
Q: What was a pivotal point in your career?
A: I found my stride working at the University of Alaska Southeast when I served as the Alumni Relations Manager. I was charged with enhancing engagement and communications with alumni, donors, students, and friends of the university to gain greater support for the university. I built relationships with so many different people and groups that were really meaningful – both professionally and personally. I also crafted university news, social media content, email marketing campaigns, and alumni stories, fundraised, managed a board of directors and budgets, developed programs for engagement, had public speaking duties, and led events for alumni and the community. The experience made me step up as a leader and pushed me out of my comfort zone.
Q: What advice would you give to someone who is about to enter the marketing or business development field?
A: Immerse yourself as much as you can. Find blogs, training, and podcasts on your subject matter. Join societies like SMPS that connect you with other professionals who have experience and create a network! Build relationships – people love to talk about their work and their passions. And lastly, find a mentor.
Q: What’s on your bucket list?
A: So many more countries to travel to and spend time in! Turkey, Morocco, and Nepal are some that are high on the list.
Q: How do you spend your time outside of work?
A: I like to be outside and move! I enjoy hiking, trail running, biking, splitboarding, and skiing – especially with my dog and partner. I also play hockey and soccer and like dreaming up backcountry and international travel plans. Cooking and spending time with friends and family is important to me too. I also volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters.
Q: What’s the best and worst part of the pandemic for you?
A: For a while, the worst parts were the limitations on seeing people in person and traveling. But oddly enough, the forced, universal “slow down” connected or reconnected me to friends and family in new ways. And I’m not going to lie, I love the hybrid work schedule and more flexibility.
Q: What does a typical day look like for you?
A: At work, I’m a huge list maker, so I’m usually spending the beginning of my day getting organized and prioritizing my tasks. It usually involves drafting up various internal and external communications and marketing pieces, coordinating activities, meetings, and tea and snack breaks!
Q: Why is SMPS important to you?
A: I’m new to the A/E/C world and SMPS, so I wanted to get involved in meeting other A/E/C marketers, building relationships, and learning from each other. It feels nice to know there are others out there who do what you do – especially when there is only one or a very small team of marketers at each firm.
Q: What do you look forward to most in a post-COVID world?
A: Our communities (and world) being more prepared and unified in how we approach and take on unprecedented challenges.
Q: Who inspires you?
A: Writer and activist Glennon Doyle. I’ve read several of her books and frequently listen to her podcast, “We Can Do Hard Things.” She has a pretty incredible story. She is also married to former soccer star Abby Wambach, who I also respect (growing up, soccer was a big part of my life). Together, they use their platforms to create social change and raise funds for people in need and a variety of important causes. They are also just entertaining!
Q: Who would you choose to switch places with for a day?
A: Someone in a tropical place in the winter…
Q: Would you rather attend a sporting event, concert, or neither?
A: Oh, probably a concert, but I enjoy both.
Q: Who do you consider a role model?
A: My dad. He’s so even-keeled, has a good sense of humor about life, is such a hard worker, and has always been my greatest supporter.
Q: Guilty pleasure: What can you not live without?
A: Sweets, like homemade baked goods!
