Articles

Angela Tombolini

Thank you for joining us, Angela. To start, can you tell us when you first became involved with SMPS?
I joined SMPS in 2014 and have been a proud member for 11 years.

What was your role when you first joined, and what is your role now?
When I first joined, I was a Business Development Coordinator. Today, I serve as the Marketing & BD Manager for Industrial Buildings.

Looking back to 1984, what were you doing at that time?
In 1984, I was making a big move—relocating from Oregon to California.

Since we are celebrating the 1980s, what was your favorite fashion trend from that era?
I loved scrunchies, jelly sandals, big hair, jean shorts, leggings, and tops or jackets with large shoulder pads. Neon everything was also a staple!

Did you have a signature 80s hairstyle?
Absolutely! I had shoulder-length hair with a perm and bangs. My head looked like a puffy, strange triangle, but at the time, I thought I was the coolest.

What was your favorite dance move from the 80s?
The Running Man.

What about music—who was your favorite band from that decade?
New Kids on the Block. I had the biggest crush on Joey McIntyre!

How did you get into AEC marketing?
I transitioned into AEC marketing after working in project manager recruitment. I was fascinated by the similarities in the sales process and found fulfillment in navigating the industry’s complexities. I loved the dynamic interactions with talented individuals and how we shared insights that contributed to both personal and professional growth.

What technological or software advancement has had the greatest impact on your career?
The evolution of CRM systems has been transformative. They’ve grown from basic data storage to sophisticated, AI-driven tools that enhance customer relationships, integrate analytics, and drive business growth.

What has been your favorite change in the industry?
The increasing adoption of design-build contracts. While this approach has long been utilized in the private sector, its expansion into the public sector is encouraging. It fosters collaboration and helps mitigate challenges such as tight schedules and budget constraints. I enjoy working within large, diverse teams because they bring a wealth of perspectives and talents to the table.

Conversely, what has been your least favorite industry change?
The challenges within AEC marketing, including resource limitations, balancing business development with long-term branding, and the difficulty of directly linking marketing efforts to sales in a proposal-driven environment.

What was your firm, Stantec, doing in 1984? Were there any significant milestones?
Between 1984 and 1993, Stantec experienced significant diversification, expanding its services and geographic reach. During this period, we added pavement management, interior design, and structural engineering, particularly for bridge and sports facility projects.

When did Stantec establish its Sacramento office?
Our Sacramento office was first established in 1987 as part of James M. Montgomery Engineers. Over the years, it has grown into a flagship location specializing in integrated water resources planning, engineering design, and construction for local, state, and federal agencies.

What is your favorite memory from your time with SMPS?
My first Mentoring Pathways roundtable discussion. It was an eye-opening experience to be surrounded by so many exceptional professionals who truly spoke my language. Finding a vibrant professional community where I could learn and grow was a game-changer for my career.

Can you share some insights from your presidency? What were some of the challenges and accomplishments?
I served as president a year into the pandemic. While we were transitioning out of shelter-in-place policies, fear and uncertainty still loomed large. We also hosted that year’s Pacific Regional Conference (PRC), where our focus was on connecting, learning, and engaging safely. From initiatives like ‘Beers with the Board,’ launching the Leadership Forum, hosting webinars, membership drives, and charity events, none of it would have been possible without the incredible teamwork of our members.

What have been some of your favorite programs or educational events?
The Mentoring Pathways program is truly transformative. It is designed to foster leadership development and career advancement, bringing together individuals eager to grow. Successful mentorship is built on strong relationships, where participants support one another in defining and achieving their professional and personal aspirations.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned, or what advice would you share?
Recognize your worth and take pride in your experiences. AEC marketing allows you to wear multiple hats—you are a project manager, a creative thinker, a brand ambassador, a corporate writer, a resource authority, a knowledge organizer, and a vital partner in any consulting team.

Why do you love SMPS?
My involvement with SMPS has profoundly shaped my career in countless positive ways. Volunteering has helped me develop communication and leadership skills, gain networking experience, and participate in program planning. However, what I cherish most are the incredible friendships I have formed along the way. SMPS has not only influenced my professional growth but has also shaped who I am as a person. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of such an inspiring community.

Lastly, is there anything else you’d like to share about the Sacramento region, SMPS, or the AEC industry since 1984?
The tools, software, and teams we engage with daily are continuously evolving, becoming more intelligent and efficient. As processes improve, marketers have the opportunity to expand their roles and integrate into every aspect of business operations. We are corporate historians, the voice of our organizations, fiscal stewards, and indispensable partners in the AEC industry.