SMPS Chicago New Member Lunch - October

As this month's official guest David B. Copeland, CTS, LEED AP BD+C, answered a few questions on how SMPS has helped his career and professional growth.

For questions regarding the lunch, contact: Lauren Mead, Matthei & Colin Associates, LLC at [email protected].

1. Where do you work and what’s your role? I work for Shen Milsom & Wilke, a technology and acoustics consulting firm. At SM&W, I am a business development associate, responsible for all aspects of market and relationship development to promote our consulting services.
2. Why did you join SMPS Chicago? Immediately after starting with Shen Milsom & Wilke, my boss directed me to SMPS as an excellent resource for developing my networking and marketing skills as well as building long-term relationships with current and new clients. Hands down the best AEC industry focused marketing and networking organization in the Chicago area!
3. How has SMPS been beneficial to you, your firm, and/or your career?I have joined or attended events for several marketing organizations, but SMPS is the absolute best organization for our firm. Through the amazing network of SMPS, I have met literally hundreds of contacts, shared ideas, leads, and teaming opportunities, and learned so much from my peers! It is an amazing group of individuals!
4. How can a new member of SMPS get the most out of their membership?New members should get out there – attend events, meet their peers, and then join a committee!
5. What was the most fun event you attended for SMPS? There have been so many great events, so it’s hard to pick just one. I think the Holiday Party last year at Studio Paris was pretty great.
6. What do you do to kick back and relax?If it’s Sunday during the fall, then there’s a football game with my name on it! Otherwise, I love watching movies and enjoy relaxing in the evening with a movie on.
7. What is your favorite musical group/performer? I’m a big fan of Coldplay, but also like to listen to jazz and classical a lot.
8. What is the most interesting place you’ve visited? I spent two weeks in Israel during college – that was an amazing trip!!
9. Name the most famous person you’ve had a face to face encounter with (“brush with greatness”)? I met Jane Fonda in Atlanta at the opening of the Jane Fonda Center at Emory University. Not sure that counts, but…
10. If you could spend 15 minutes with any living person, who would it be and why?Queen Elizabeth II – she has been queen for over 60 years and it would be amazing to hear about her life.