Articles

Jean Kim

Jean, thank you for joining us today. Could you start by telling us what year you began your journey with SMPS?

I started with SMPS in 2006.

That's wonderful! How many years have you been a member of SMPS?

I've been a member for 20 years.

When you first joined SMPS, what was your role or title?

I was a Marketing Coordinator.

And what is your current role or title?

I am now the Northern California Business Strategy and Development.

Reflecting back to 1984, what were you doing at that time?

I was crying so I didn't have to go to preschool!

That's a funny memory! Speaking of the 80s, what was your favorite fashion style from that era?

Jelly sandals, scrunchies, neon everything, leggings, jean shorts, tops/jackets with large shoulder pads, and big hair.

What rad 80s hairstyle did you rock?

An uncontrollable perm!

Did you have a favorite 80s dance move?

None!

How about your favorite 80s band?

I don't think I had a favorite band... my favorite band was NKOTB but that might be the 90's!

What was your favorite 80s concert?

Concerts in my living room! My parents did a lot of Karaoke nights at home during our time in South Korea.

How did you get into AEC marketing?

A friend of mine, who was working as a headhunter, insisted I go to an interview. I had already accepted an HR role with a startup right out of college, but I agreed to go just to support her. As it turned out, I fell in love with the office—it was a major upgrade from the warehouse setup at the startup—and ended up taking the job! I didn't even know what an RFP or RFQ was!

What technological or software advancement has been the most impactful in your career?

A lot has changed. When I first started, we were creating proposals in Quark! Our CRM database has evolved tremendously since then, and the ability to use our phones as mini-computers has completely transformed the way we work. Not to mention, the work-from-home ability today post-COVID has really helped the workforce prioritize work value and productivity versus hours in the office at your desk.

What has been your favorite industry change?

At Swinerton, we live by the motto: Stay nimble and flexible—ride the wave. We're constantly evolving, and it's essential to embrace change as our world transforms before our eyes every single day!

And what has been your least favorite industry change?

It's my favorite but also my least favorite - our cellphones. We are way too accessible with our emails, texts, and calls. While it's so helpful and efficient, it's hard to balance boundaries.

What was your firm doing in 1984? Any big milestones or projects?

In 1984, Swinerton became 100% employee-owned through an ESOP—a defining factor that sets us apart when recruiting top talent, highlighting our culture, and fostering the entrepreneurial spirit essential for innovation and growth.

When did your firm open a Sacramento office?

In 1954 as HMH Builders.

What is your favorite SMPS memory?

I used to love our Meet the Board Breakfast meetings during my time as President. I loved our happy hours, too!

What was your presidency like? What were some of the challenges, day-to-day activities, and accomplishments?

Challenging but rewarding. We had a fabulous board, Frank Lippert had just moved to Sacramento, it was great times!

What were some of the programs or educational events that you hosted, or what's been your favorite program or educational event?

Honestly, I can't remember! We did a ton of webinars, free-to-members education events, we had national speakers fly in to host More Cowbells. We focused a lot on member give-back through education.

What is your biggest lesson learned or best piece of advice?

You get what you put in. Put in the work and the reward is even greater!

Why do you love SMPS?

It's the one place marketers can go to gain institutional knowledge, build a network of peers who understand you, and a place for genuine friendships!

Is there anything else you would like to share about the Sacramento region, SMPS, or the AEC industry since 1984?

It's been an incredible journey, and one I'm proud to be a part of!