For our member spotlight, Julie Kost, FSMPS, CPSM, sat down for a virtual chat with us to share what it means to be an SMPS Fellow. Julie is marketing manager | associate at Schmidt Associates.
Could you please share what it means to you to become an SMPS Fellow? It’s incredibly meaningful. SMPS has been a constant in my career—a place where I’ve grown, led, and built lasting connections. Becoming a Fellow isn’t just a recognition of what I’ve done; it’s a chance to give back in a bigger way. It means continuing to advocate for the role of marketing in our industry, supporting others through mentorship, and helping more people see what’s possible in this profession. It’s both an honor and a responsibility, and I’m ready for both.
How do you see this designation changing or elevating your professional role? It gives me a stronger platform to share what I’ve learned, contribute at a broader level, and be seen as a go-to mentor in our industry. At Schmidt Associates, I already have a seat at the table, but this reinforces the value of marketing in firm leadership and supports my long-term goal of becoming a principal. I also see it as a way to get more involved at the Society level—whether through special initiatives, committees, or eventually the board. This designation helps me continue to lead with purpose while helping others see what’s possible in this profession.
What would you like to accomplish as an SMPS Fellow as it relates to the Society or A/E/C industry? I want to help more people see the value of SMPS and the potential of a career in A/E/C marketing. Most students have no idea this path exists, so I want to start earlier—connecting with high school and college programs to introduce the profession and help build a pipeline of future marketers. I also want to help chapters and the Society communicate the member journey more clearly. If we can show people where SMPS can take them, we can grow stronger engagement and retention. I’ll continue to be a partner and advocate for my local chapter, and I’d like to contribute at the national level—whether that’s shaping new programs, supporting member engagement strategies, or helping define the future of A/E/C marketing within SMPS.
How would you like to be a resource to SMPS members? I want to be a sounding board, a mentor, and someone who helps others grow into the kind of leaders they may not see in themselves yet. Whether it’s one-on-one conversations, speaking engagements, or creating tools and templates, I’m always looking for ways to give back and share what I’ve learned. I’d also love to help members map out a path through SMPS—from joining a committee to earning a CPSM, serving on a board, and maybe even becoming a Fellow. I believe in this organization, and I want to help others find their place in it.
Any final thoughts? Get involved. That’s the advice I give every member, because I’ve lived both sides of it. The first time I joined SMPS, I didn’t engage and dropped out after two years. But when I came back, I jumped in—joined a committee, then the board, became chapter president, HRC co-chair, earned my CPSM, and now I’m honored to be a Fellow. The difference was night and day. I learned more, felt more connected, grew my network, and made real friends. This community has so much to offer, but the value comes when you show up. I’m grateful I did.