Page 18 - May-June 2017 Vol. 35 No.1
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2016 TCAPWA/SWANA CONFERENCE SURVEY RESULTS
Advice from Industry Professionals
What’s the one thing you wish product and your business than anyone further yourself in the working world.”
someone had told you when – don’t be afraid to talk to engineers, – Kristin Franklin, City of Chattanooga
you were younger as you were owners, customers about your product.
making career path choices? They know less than you.” – Mike Kusch, “Having more resources to varying
Forterra Pipe and Precast industry heads that explained the
“Pick work enjoyment over financial differences between them.”
compensation.” – Jayne Young-Pezeshk, “That communication skills were vital to – Michael Irwin, City of Memphis
City of Memphis engineering and Public Works.”
– Richard Yarbrough, CZRL “Get involved in your professional
“When I joined the City, I knew nothing association – you will make lifelong
about Public Works and worked in the “Find opportunities to learn new skills friends, develop crucial business
office. I wish I had gone outside earlier!” and experience different situations. These relationships and develop personal and
– Nicholas Bradshaw, City of Knoxville elements will increase your value and professional skills that will serve you well
enrich your life.” – Kenny Diehl, SSR throughout your career.”
“I wish someone would have told me – Keith Pugh, City of High Point, N.C.
what Public Works really was and how “You don’t have to do one specialty for 30 “Pray and ask Jesus what He wanted me
rewarding the career is.” years. Careers are dynamic and you can to do with my life.” – Bobby Allen, City of
– Rodney Keeton, Stringfellow, Inc. reinvent yourself over and over!” Memphis
(Retired City of Collegedale) – David Brace, City of Knoxville
What advice do you have for
“Engage professionals in your career path “How important internship was and someone wanting to follow in
and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Most what my degree would let me become, your footsteps?
people love to talk about their successes what jobs and markets would be at my
and learning moments.” – Jeffrey Old, fingertips.” – Joe Tipton, Forterra Pipe and “Seek a broad base of experience in
Fisher and Arnold Engineering Precast Public Works. Value the experience and
advice of Public Works veterans. Know
“Remember you know more about your “I think that it would be to get out and when to listen and when to speak. Be
meet people to make connections to
18 TPW May/June 2017
