What are the most rewarding aspects of your job and why?
I have never in my professional career experienced such outstanding support, consideration and confidence in what I am doing to drive new business. The whole team works as one toward the goal of constructing amazing buildings. From leadership to boots-on-the-ground tradespeople, we are all focused on being the best in the business.
Who do you look up to or admire in business and why?
My dad. He opened Hometowne Bakery (in Platteville) because it was his dream. He left a director position to do this. Everyone thought he was crazy, but he loved the work. His work ethic and drive rubbed off on me at an early age. His knowledge and business acumen gave me unmeasurable insight on how a business operates and what it takes to create successful relationships in life and in business.
What has been the high point of your career so far?
This. This is it. I am beyond excited and humbled to be part of this amazing team and spearheading JP Cullen’s business development.
Careerwise, what advice would you give your 21-year-old self?
Listen more. Talk less.
What would you say are the best things about living and working in Dane County?
All of the great things to do with my family. We love hiking, playing golf (mostly for me, but the kids are getting into it), and finding new places to visit … in Madison and throughout Dane County.
Do you have any secret talents or abilities that people would be surprised to discover?
Hmm … I can lick my own nose. I can also play pretty good golf as a righty (I am naturally left-handed). When I started playing golf (at) age 8, I started as a right-handed golfer. It was quickly determined that I was, in fact, a lefty. I also brought my early baking experience home and love baking with the kids. One of our specialties is monkey bread.
What are your guilty pleasures?
Tabletop role-playing games (like Dungeons & Dragons). I own several thousand polyhedral dice — think 20-sided, 12-sided, etc. — which is my most guilty pleasure. I have been playing some form of role-playing game since my pre-teens, so for about 30 years. I still get together with some of the original gamers from 30 years ago to “nerd it up.”
