Welcome to our “Meet Our Project Managers” series! At ReadiTech Engineering, we know that our greatest strength lies in our people. Each team member brings a unique blend of expertise, experience, and personality that drives our success. In this series, we’re excited to introduce you to the talented Project Managers who lead our projects with passion and precision.
In this spotlight, we sat down with Terry Kassian, one of ReadiTech Engineering’s Senior Project Managers, to learn more about his journey, leadership style, and what inspires him in his role.
Read Terry’s answers below!
Can you tell me about your background and how you got into project management?
“I got into telecommunications back in the late 80s, working with a construction company installing copper facilities. From there, I went to college for Engineering Technology and Industrial Technology. Once I graduated, I started working at an engineering firm in 1996/1997 as a drafter in telecommunications. Throughout my career, I have been able to advance in job positions. Starting as a drafter, to an outside construction observer to a designer to a project manager.”
What has been your most challenging project?
“I cannot name one specific project. As far as project management goes, there are a multitude of projects, whether small or large, that can be challenging. The most challenging projects are the ones that involve Federal Entities that regulate what you can and can’t do and where you can and can’t construct. It can be challenging to get through those hurdles to place the facilities for our clients. These challenges cause changes to scopes, schedules, and budgets.”
What emerging trends in engineering and project management are you most excited about?
“The emerging trends that I am excited about and working with are the advancements in computer software and the new technologies that are coming out. They have a good basis for allowing my job to become easier, however, not everything is foolproof. These technologies are helping to assist with project management.”
What advice would you give to someone aspiring to become a project manager in the engineering field?
“I would tell them that they need to stick with it for a while to see if they like that role as project management in the engineering field is ever changing. I would also tell them that there are going to be hiccups in every project and stress involved but learning how to work through those to see the project to the end makes it all worth it. Another important aspect of being a project manager is being incredibly detail oriented. This is important because when those hiccups happen or if something changes you must be able to ensure that everything you have laid out will follow through and work with the project. The biggest piece of this is to stick with it and really take on and embrace those challenges.”
What do you enjoy most about your job?
“The first is being able to see a project from start to finish, seeing a project be successful in the end is the great thing. Another part that I love is seeing a project for the rest of your life and being able to say, ‘I did that.’”
We hope you enjoyed getting to know Terry, stay tuned for our next spotlight in July!
