Veteran Member Spotlight: Kendra Chong

For this month’s veteran member spotlight, we spoke with Kendra Chong, Senior Marketing Manager at OTJ Architects. Find out why Kendra stays engaged with SMPS and what drives her approach to our industry.

Name: Kendra Chong

Company: OTJ Architects

Title/role: Senior Marketing Manager

Hometown & Current Town: Frederick, MD; Washington, DC

Alma Mater(s): George Washington University (GWU), Goucher College

Favorite DC-area restaurant: Tail Up Goat

Favorite DC tourist destination: The National Arboretum

Favorite travel destination: Paris and Costa Rica

Favorite book – business and/or pleasure: The Martian Chronicles by Ray Bradbury

Food you always crave: Bagel with lox and cream cheese

Favorite celebrity/brand to follow on social: The Home Edit

Favorite app: Instagram

Favorite movie: The Princess Bride

Currently binging on Netflix: Schitt’s Creek

When I’m not at work you’ll find me: Spending quality time with my young family

Dream job: Fashion Illustrator

What got you into the AEC industry and what keeps you here?

The architects and designers. Their work inspires me, and I am energized by the near constant flow of creativity.

When and why did you first join SMPS, and what keeps you coming back?

I joined SMPS to be connected to other individuals who did what I did. It is a great professional resource for networking and advice.

What advice do you have for our newer SMPS DC members about getting the most out of their membership?

Take as many webinars as possible, they are informative and can help you to think outside the box.

What has been your favorite SMPS DC or SMPS event?

I participated in the mentorship program. It was an excellent way to meet seasoned professionals and our field. My mentor helped me to navigate several professional hurdles and I am thankful for the advice I received.

Best work-related advice you’ve ever gotten?

Print it out. Typos are embarrassing and annoying, so I print everything and reread it. They really jump out at you on paper.