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SMPS OC’s 2022 Student Member Spotlight

Meet SMPS OC’s First Student Member, Britnie Ball!

Britnie has been involved with SMPS from the time she was a college undergrad through her Master’s program and beyond. She has been working in the A/E/C Marketing industry for a few years now and is a Marketing Specialist at Stantec.

How were you introduced to SMPS?

When I was an undergrad, one of my marketing professors brought in a guest speaker from SMPS to share how this marketing industry organization was available to us. It was the first I’d ever heard of A/E/C marketing. It was a career path I never knew existed, but since I was always interested in architecture and infrastructure, learning about SMPS and this type of Marketing intrigued me. So, I switched gears a little and decided to follow this not-so-typical marketing career. I am so glad I was introduced to SMPS as a college student.

How did you engage with SMPS?

I initially engaged with SMPS by becoming a member of the on-campus chapter so I could get a better understanding of the industry. Once I moved to California, I joined the Orange County Chapter and started attending events. Then my boss encouraged me to join the Mentorship program and—hands down—it’s the best thing I have done. It’s so nice to have someone who can give me advice, feedback, and serve as a sounding board in a safe space. In addition to participating in the Mentorship program, I am also on the Student Liaison Committee.

How has your SMPS involvement benefitted you in both your work and education efforts?

In my education, SMPS has helped me focus more on the topics that I need for this niche work we do. My connection with SMPS also helped me find an internship in the A/E/C industry while still in school. It has helped me grow my network, which is very helpful since I am still somewhat new to the industry. In terms of career, SMPS has helped me identify new opportunities, educated me about new areas of our industry, and connected me to the right people who are now helping me develop and refine my skills and grow my career.

What would you tell potential student members about SMPS?

My advice to students who may thinking about joining SMPS is: Just Do It! It opens your eyes and opens so many doors. It’s low commitment and high reward. It’s inexpensive and there are so many informative events and networking and educational opportunities. And if you’re like me…you’ll fall in love with both SMPS and the A/E/C marketing industry.

How do you plan to stay active in SMPS?

Next year I am going to help with Communications and serve as the Email Blast Chair and will also stay involved on the Student Liaison Committee. I will continue attending luncheon and educational events, as well. And maybe in a couple years, I’d love to pay it forward and serve as a Mentor in our Mentorship Program and help the next Britnie!