Three years ago, I swapped firms after 15 years at the same one joining a firm with 16 offices across the states and took on caregiving for my elderly mom. Chaos? Absolutely. While my personal and professional lives were doing somersaults, SDA was the steady force that helped me keep my footing—at least professionally. That stability inspired me to take a hard look at how I was spending my time. This year I am stepping away from a state nonprofit board after serving 5 years, while wrapping up my role as a city arts commissioner, and decided 2025 would be my year to refocus on growth (and maybe sleep).

Since joining SDA in 2017, I’ve soaked up seminars, national conventions, and committee work—even presented a few Quick in 30s.  SDA has been my go-to for industry insight, skill building, and connecting with the kind of people who actually get what we do. I needed a reboot.

The plan? Double down on my growth, finally pursue my CDFO (Certificate in Design Firm Operations), and get back to the community that helped shape my career. I’d been missing EDSymposiums—those energizing annual gatherings of like-minded doers and thinkers—and the absence was starting to feel like skipping the main course of a really great meal. The flavor just wasn’t the same.

Enter: the PPC Grant. Perfect timing, perfect purpose. It gave me the opportunity to return to EDSymposium, reconnect with longtime colleagues, and plug back into the conversations that matter. Yes, the sessions were incredible, but let’s be honest—the shared war stories and tips from fellow members were just as impactful

However, of all the insightful sessions, a few stood out as game changers for me. First up on day one Kristin Kautz’s R(AI)sing Your AI IQ half day workshop. It really framed AI not as a buzzword but as a systemic shift—one we simply cannot afford to ignore. There are tools already at our fingertips, and many of us (guilty!) are either underusing them or don’t even know they exist. She made the entire topic approachable, acknowledging the concerns while championing the potential. I’ve been working with AI tools in Canva for SDA for over a year, and even I walked away with a fresh perspective—and a longer to-do list. Her message was clear: this train has already left the station. It’s time to get on board or risk being left behind.

The next day, Diane Mika picked up the thread with Managing Evolving Risks of AI in Design and Construction. Her session emphasized the need for firms to start drafting real policies now—addressing concerns around data, ethical use, and content credibility. It served as the perfect complement to Kristin’s session: practical, informative, and a strong reminder that AI isn’t just about convenience—it’s about responsibility.

After not only these workshops but also chatting with fellow attendees—whether in side conversations, between sessions, or yes, at the bar—investing in AI as a tool in my bag felt like a no-brainer. I’ve dabbled before, but once I got home, I made it official and got my own personal paid AI assistant. Now “Zoey” is by my side, helping me stay efficient, streamline tasks, and free up brain space to focus on the actual work. (Fun fact: Zoey even lent a hand getting this blog post written. So, if you’re enjoying it, thank her too—we make a good team 😉)

Now, let’s talk about the session that might’ve hit the most personal nerve: Carla Howard’s keynote address Courageous Conversations which came perfectly a day after her workshop on Critical Thinking. This was an early morning and over breakfast, but it was the perfect wakeup call addressing those “ugh, do I really have to have this talk?” moments and turned them into something empowering. She didn’t just tell us why tough conversations matters she showed us how to have them. She broke down the process into digestible “elements,” and somehow turned a potentially uncomfortable topic into something empowering, even energizing.  Her six steps—Candidness, Choosing Your Mood, and Inviting Collaboration, among others—were more than just slides on a screen. They were frameworks I could immediately apply. It seems I might use some of these in those family holiday conversations that tend to walk the tightrope of disaster. Carla reminded us that difficult conversations don’t have to be disasters. With the right tools, they can be opportunities for growth, clarity, and (dare I say) actual connection. And if you’re like me her outlines and breakdowns in the materials provided are your new go-to reference sheets—already highlighted, and living permanently on your desktop.

Now I’m back in my little corner of the world—juggling CDFO coursework, learning the ropes as your new SDA National Vice President (still not sure who let that happen), and seeking ways to boost our SDA membership (if you haven’t heard we all are connecting on LinkedIn, so connect with me already!)

Most importantly, I’m channeling everything I absorbed at EDSymposium into my work at MIG and into conversations with my colleagues—encouraging them to explore their own professional paths. I believe deeply that operations professionals deserve spaces to grow, learn, and lead. SDA provides exactly that, and I’m honored to be part of its leadership at this exciting time.

To the PPC committee: thank you. This grant allowed me to reconnect, reenergize, and realign with my goals. It wasn’t just about attending a conference—it was about re-entering a space that fuels me professionally and personally.

To anyone wondering if attending EDSymposium is worth it: It is. The content is rich, the people are brilliant, and the impact lingers long after you leave the ballroom.

And to those who might be considering applying for the PPC Grant in the future: Do it. Don’t hesitate. Invest in yourself—you’re worth it, and so is this experience.

Because at the end of the day, whether you’re crunching numbers, managing people, or holding it all together with spreadsheets and snacks—this is a career of opportunity and growth.

We’d love to hear from you! What part of Fran's EDSymposium25 experience resonated most with you? Leave a comment below to let her know! And while you're at it—think back to your own EDSymposium experience. What session, speaker, or moment made a lasting impact? Or if you haven’t attended yet, what are you hoping to gain when you do? Let’s keep the inspiration (and conversation) going! 

An addendum is something that is added to a document. Your rental lease might have an addendum attached to it. If a firm’s Bid Documents had a change after the fact, it was an addendum that added additional information to the documents.

Addendum is the singular form. Addenda is the plural form.

With reference to our industry, Bid Documents contain the plans, specifications, and estimates that are sent out to Bidders. If, for example, the Bidders then have questions or bring up a situation that might prompt a change to the Bid Documents, an addendum would be issued. After the bidding process, if there were any changes, the Owner might issue a set of Conformed Documents that would include that one addendum, or if Bidders prompted a number of different changes, then all of the addenda would be incorporated into the Conformed Documents.

It's easy to confuse the singular and plural forms; just remember that if there’s more than one addendum to the document, it’s considered plural, so addenda is the correct word to use.

Special thanks to our authors - Judy Beebe, FSDA and Carol Wanda Spradlin, CDFA - both with the SDA Pacific Northwest (formerly Seattle) chapter.

Whether you're an admin, office manager, or assistant in the A/E/C industry, mastering the art of performance reviews is crucial to both your success and the success of your firm. This isn't just about checking off a box; it's about enhancing productivity, fostering growth, and creating a culture where everyone can thrive. Let’s dive into why this process is essential, how to conduct it effectively, and the strategies you can use to make each review impactful.

The Importance of Performance Reviews: Performance reviews are more than just a formality; they’re a vital tool for both evaluating an employee’s contributions and setting the stage for their future growth. For admins and office managers in the A/E/C industry, these reviews are a chance to ensure that staff members are aligned with the firm's objectives, motivated, and equipped with the skills they need to succeed. When done correctly, performance reviews can boost morale, increase productivity, and help retain top talent.

Timing Is Everything - When to Do It Right: The timing of a performance review can significantly impact its effectiveness. While annual reviews are standard, consider incorporating quarterly check-ins to address issues in real-time and celebrate small wins. For remote employees or those working off-site, it’s essential to schedule reviews in advance to ensure both parties can engage in meaningful dialogue without distractions.

Planning and Preparation: The Foundation of Success:  A successful performance review starts long before the actual meeting. Begin by setting clear, measurable goals that align with the firm's objectives. Document your observations throughout the review period, noting both achievements and areas where improvement is needed. This preparation ensures that your feedback is specific and constructive, rather than vague and general.

Tailoring Reviews to Different Roles:  Not all reviews are created equal, especially in the A/E/C industry, where roles can vary greatly. Here's how to tailor your approach:

• Field Workers: Focus on hands-on skills, teamwork, adherence to safety protocols, and the ability to meet project deadlines.
• Project Managers: Emphasize leadership qualities, decision-making skills, budget management, and communication with both clients and team members.
• Engineers and Technical Staff: Highlight problem-solving abilities, technical proficiency, innovation, and the ability to adapt to changing project requirements.

Customizing your reviews based on the role ensures that you're evaluating employees on criteria that truly reflect their responsibilities.

Conducting the Review: Feedback Strategies That Work

When it comes to giving feedback, your approach can make all the difference. Start by conveying your positive intent to help the employee grow and succeed. Use the "STAR" method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to deliver specific feedback that focuses on observable behaviors rather than personal attributes. This approach minimizes defensiveness and opens the door to constructive conversation.

The Art of Virtual Performance Reviews

In today's hybrid work environment, conducting virtual performance reviews has become a necessity. To make these reviews as effective as in-person meetings, ensure you have a stable internet connection and a quiet, private space. Use video conferencing tools to maintain a personal touch and make eye contact. Share your screen to go over key points, and be sure to follow up with a written summary of the review to reinforce what was discussed.

Post-Review Action Steps: Turning Feedback into Progress

The real impact of a performance review lies in what happens afterward. Set clear action items for both the manager and the employee, with specific deadlines for follow-ups and progress check-ins. Regular check-ins help keep goals on track, provide opportunities to address any obstacles, and reinforce the commitment to continuous improvement.

Fresh Ideas for Performance Management

Innovation isn’t just for design; it applies to performance reviews too! Consider implementing peer reviews or 360-degree feedback to gain a broader perspective on an employee’s performance. Encourage self-assessments that allow employees to reflect on their achievements and identify areas where they seek growth.

Building a Culture of Continuous Feedback

Performance reviews should be part of an ongoing conversation, not a once-a-year event. Encourage open communication and make feedback a two-way street. When employees feel heard and valued, they're more likely to be engaged and motivated to reach their full potential.

Conclusion: Elevating Performance Reviews in the A/E/C Industry

Effective performance reviews are a powerful tool for driving success in the A/E/C industry, especially for admins, office managers, and assistants. By tailoring the process to fit different roles, preparing thoroughly, providing constructive feedback, and following up with actionable steps, you can transform these reviews from a dreaded task into a valuable opportunity for growth and development.

Stay connected with SDA for more insights and best practices that will help you elevate your career and add value to your firm. Together, we can redefine what it means to support excellence in the A/E/C industry.

Pro Tips for Admins: Streamlining Hiring & Operational Workflows

Admins and office managers are often the glue holding the hiring process together—whether you're screening resumes, juggling schedules, or helping managers prep for interviews. Here are a few tried-and-true tips to help you shine even brighter in your role:

• Centralize Your Communication:
Tracking candidate emails, interview notes, and feedback in one place (such as an ATS or shared platform) prevents critical info from slipping through the cracks. A centralized system = a smoother hiring experience for everyone involved.

• Standardize Interview Questions:
Consider building a firmwide interview question bank that aligns with your core values and culture. Not only does this keep interviews consistent and equitable, but it also helps hiring managers stay focused on what truly matters.

Proactive Practices to Keep You Ahead of the Curve

• Keep Job Descriptions Fresh:
Regularly update job roles and responsibilities to reflect what’s actually expected in the position today—not what was listed three years ago.

• Stay Legally Informed:
Attend SDA webinars or browse resources to stay current with employment laws, compliance updates, and administrative trends in the A/E/C space.

• Learn the Tools:
Even if you're not in HR, learning how to navigate or evaluate ATS platforms and AI-driven resume screeners can help you support your team more strategically.

Spotlight Resource: SDA Job Board

Looking for A/E/C-savvy candidates? SDA’s industry-specific job board reaches experienced, vetted professionals who already speak the language of design, engineering, and construction admin.

🔗 Post or browse jobs here