April is Administrative Professionals Month, and at SDA, we’re taking time to recognize the dedicated professionals who keep A/E/C firms running smoothly. Many of our members may not always be in the spotlight—but day in and day out, they bring knowledge, leadership, and consistency to their teams. This month, we're celebrating their contributions by sharing insights, experiences, and stories that highlight the value they bring to our industry and to one another. This week we hear from Susan Lankey, CDFA. Susan is a member of our National Membership Committee, a Past National President, and a member of the SDA Mid-Atlantic Chapter. 

Every month, I make it a priority to join SDA’s First Friday Coffee Chat—and for good reason. It’s more than just a casual check-in; it’s a collaborative space where real challenges meet real solutions. Whether you’re looking for advice, fresh perspectives, or simply a way to connect with peers who understand the unique demands of the AEC industry, this is the place to be.

A Trusted Space for Honest Conversations

One of the greatest benefits of these sessions is the ability to seek honest advice in a trusted environment. If you’re struggling with a workplace issue—whether it’s holding project managers accountable, improving financial workflows, or handling team dynamics—chances are, someone else has faced a similar challenge. The open discussion format allows participants to share experiences, offer solutions, and provide fresh perspectives that you may not have considered.

Unlike structured webinars or formal training sessions, First Friday Coffee Chats feel more like a conversation among colleagues. There’s no pressure to come with prepared remarks or polished insights—just bring your questions, challenges, and curiosity. Some of the best takeaways come from spontaneous discussions sparked by a simple “Has anyone else dealt with this before?”

Diverse Voices, Valuable Insights

What makes these conversations so valuable is the diversity of voices in the room. SDA members from firms of all sizes and specialties bring a wide range of expertise. Whether you’re navigating office politics, learning new software, managing international employees, or implementing new firm policies, the insights shared come from real-world experience.

This mix of perspectives is what keeps me coming back. It’s one thing to read about best practices online, but it’s another to hear firsthand how your peers are tackling the same challenges. It’s also reassuring to know that even if no one has the perfect answer, you’ll leave each session with new ideas, a fresh outlook, and a supportive network of peers who are always willing to help.

Real-World Examples That Make a Difference

Over the past year, I’ve walked away from these chats with practical solutions that I’ve implemented in my own firm. Here are just a few examples of topics we’ve discussed:

✅ How to encourage project managers to take ownership of budgets and deadlines
✅ Strategies for training new employees on firm policies and workflows
✅ Best practices for managing remote teams and keeping them engaged
✅ How to advocate for better technology and software upgrades in your firm
✅ Ways to handle difficult conversations with leadership or team members

These aren’t just abstract concepts—they’re actionable insights that have helped me improve efficiency, communication, and overall job satisfaction.

Building Connections That Last

Beyond the professional benefits, First Friday Coffee Chats are also a great way to build lasting relationships within the SDA community. Working in firm operations can sometimes feel isolating, especially if you’re the only person in your role at your firm. These chats serve as a reminder that you’re not alone—there’s a whole network of experienced professionals who understand your challenges and are willing to offer advice and encouragement.

I’ve made meaningful connections through these conversations, and many of those connections have turned into ongoing professional relationships. Whether it’s collaborating on a project, sharing resources, or simply having someone to vent to on a tough day, the support system within SDA is invaluable.

If You Haven’t Joined Yet, Here’s Why You Should

If you haven’t attended a First Friday Coffee Chat yet, I encourage you to give it a try. There’s no formal agenda, no pressure to speak—just a welcoming space where you can listen, learn, and contribute when you’re ready. It’s one of the easiest ways to tap into SDA’s collective knowledge—and you might just walk away with the solution you’ve been looking for. So grab your coffee, pull up a chair, and join the conversation! You never know what insights or connections you’ll gain.

Thanks Susan. Our April Virtual Coffee will be our SDA National Open House in honor of Administrative Professionals Month. Join us for the conversation on April 4, 2025 at 11:00 am eastern. It’s free to attend—register here (and invite someone who needs to know about SDA to join you):  https://www.sdanational.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1873455