As I step down from my role as president of the SMPS Foundation, I’m filled with a deep sense of pride and gratitude. This past year has been transformative for our organization as we’ve worked tirelessly to elevate the role of marketing and business development professionals in the A/E/C industry. It has been a year marked by collaboration, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to our mission.
A Year in Review
Our efforts this year have been focused on solidifying the Foundation’s position as a leader in thought leadership and research within the A/E/C industry. We’ve made significant strides in raising awareness of the Foundation’s work, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Foundation board of trustees, HQ staff, and the SMPS board. Together, we’ve worked in unison under the banner of “One SMPS,” promoting each facet of the industry and showcasing how we can elevate it together.
One of our most notable initiatives was our partnership with researchers and organizations to deliver cutting-edge insights that address the challenges and opportunities facing A/E/C professionals. Our work on the AEC.BD report, a follow-up to the popular Sell. Do. Win. of 2015, exemplifies this commitment. This report, developed in partnership with Stambaugh Ness, offers valuable insights into the evolving world of business development, helping firms stay ahead in a rapidly changing landscape.
We also focused on member and donor outreach, governance, and member engagement. These efforts have not only strengthened our organization but have also fostered a sense of community and shared purpose among our members. The enthusiasm and dedication of our board of trustees have been instrumental in these achievements. Their tireless work has attracted new interest from members eager to get involved at the committee level, further energizing our working board.
Amplify A|E|C: A Highlight of the Year
This year’s Amplify A|E|C, the annual SMPS conference in Salt Lake City, was a testament to the strides we’ve made. The SMPS Foundation hosted its inaugural Emerging Trends in A/E/C Marketing and Business Development, featuring the visionary Carla Johnson. Her keynote presentation and the subsequent roundtable discussions provided attendees with fresh perspectives on the latest industry trends and challenges. The insights gained from this session are invaluable, and while the full notes are currently exclusive to attendees, we’re committed to continuing this dialogue and expanding our research in the coming year.
Speaking of conference, the SMPS Foundation had a goal of raising $5,000 at Amplify A|E|C. Thank you to those who supported our initiative. As of August 14, the Foundation has raised $4,370—which means we are almost there! Please consider donating to help us reach our goal.
Looking Ahead: The Future Under Michele Raftery’s Leadership
As I pass the torch to Michele Raftery, I am confident that the SMPS Foundation is in capable hands. Michele brings a wealth of experience, passion, and a clear vision for the future. Under her leadership, the Foundation will continue to build on the momentum we’ve gained, with a focus on expanding our research initiatives, increasing member engagement, and furthering our commitment to diversity and inclusion within the A/E/C industry.
Michele’s leadership style is collaborative and forward-thinking. She is dedicated to ensuring that the Foundation remains the preeminent resource for A/E/C growth professionals, providing the research and information they need to advance their firms. I have no doubt that under her guidance, the SMPS Foundation will reach new heights, continuing to serve as a beacon of knowledge and inspiration for our industry.
Thank You
I want to express my deepest gratitude to the SMPS Foundation board of trustees, with whom I have depended on for their expertise, leadership, diversity of thought, and pure grit to get so many things accomplished. Additionally, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the SMPS board of directors, donors, and our members at large. Your support, dedication, and passion have been the driving forces behind our successes this year. It has been an honor to serve as your president, and I look forward to seeing the incredible things the Foundation will achieve in the years to come.
As we move forward, let us continue to work together as “One SMPS,” united in our mission to elevate the A/E/C industry and empower the professionals who drive its success. Thank you for an incredible year, and here’s to an even brighter future.
Article written by SMPS Foundation President Janet Lively McCauley, CPSM, Assoc. AIA.
The AEC.BD report can be downloaded from the SMPS website. Please scroll down to the Latest Research section on the About the Foundation page.
