August Professional Member of the Month

Jill Boetger

Ryan Companies US, Inc.

Project Manager

1. Our line of work is built on the value of relationships and opportunities; what have you found is the best way to communicate in times of conflict?
   I have to remind myself to slow down and not try to immediately fix the problem on my own. I do my best to listen and be open to another perspective. Everyone has something to offer and something to teach if we’re willing to listen and have a genuine desire to learn.  Usually, there is a common ground or a hybrid solution that both sides can agree to.

2. Sometimes our careers can be demanding; how do you wind down in the evenings to maintain a balanced lifestyle?
   My evenings are spent with my husband TJ and our two boys Zavier and Greyson. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle is a continuous challenge, but we do our best to try and be present during family time. Most nights feature cooking/eating as a family followed by watching tv or reading together before bed. Revisiting some of our favorite childhood chapter books with our kids has been fun.

3. In 2018 technology is at our fingertips - what is your favorite app and/or website?
   At work the app I use the most is Procore. We use it for all things project related (drawings, financials, meetings, RFIs, photos, etc.). It’s been a game changer for punch lists.  One the personal side the two apps I find myself going to are Class Dojo and Pinterest. Class Dojo allows me to get a glimpse into my kid’s daily lives at school. I love it when their teachers post photos of all the fun/silly/creative things they’re doing.

4. As professionals we are versed in community interaction and collaboration; what are you involved in outside of your profession?
   The two organizations that are near and dear to my heart are the ACE Mentoring Program and Iowa Women in Architecture. ACE is a free after-school mentoring program for High School students that allows them to get first-hand experience with the Architecture, Construction and Engineering disciplines by going through a mock project. I’ve been involved with ACE for 12 years as a mentor, team leader and member of the Board of Directors. I have the honor of serving as the Chair for our Central Iowa affiliate this year.  I’ve also been very fortunate to be involved with Iowa Women in Architecture for the last 4-5 years. I was the Co-Chair for the Education & Programs Committee from 2014 to 2016 and have remained involved with that committee. Our events and programs are enlightening and empowering and I can’t say enough for our socials. I look forward to them and really enjoy the great conversations that come out of those mornings.

5. We are Iowa Women in Architecture; who were the female role models that inspired you?
   My parents were my first role models and really set the stage for me. They always told me that I could do anything I set my mind to and have continuously supported and encouraged me along the way. I’m so thankful for them.  Professionally, I’ve had a lot of great mentors. Many females stand out: Ann Reinhart, Nicki Jensen and Heidi Pollmann. One of my most influential mentors has been Brian Clark, which is a testament to the fact that women don’t need only female role models. In our industry there are not always female role models readily available so be open to learn from whomever inspires you.