30 Oct, 2020
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.
Quickfire
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
Let’s Get To It……
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.