In this episode of the Infrastructure Hot Seat podcast, host Chad Smeltzer interviews Mackenzie App, the Regional Manager for the East Coast at Emmy Simpson Company. They discuss Mackenzie's journey into the infrastructure industry, the challenges faced by women in the field, and the changing landscape of business development in the digital age. Mackenzie also shares insights on the budget constraints and competition within the industry, as well as the importance of proactive asset management and building relationships with engineering firms.
Key Takeaways:
- Mackenzie's background in the water and wastewater industry was influenced by her father, who has been in the industry for almost 30 years.
- Women in the infrastructure industry face challenges but are making progress, with the majority of men being supportive and professional.
- The digital landscape is changing the way business development is done, with LinkedIn and virtual meetings becoming more important.
- Budget constraints and competition are still challenges in the industry, but there is a growing need for new technologies and proactive asset management.
- Building relationships with engineering firms is crucial for success in the industry, as they often play a key role in decision-making for infrastructure projects.
