Week 3: Into the Swing of Things
Sunday, June 2, 2013 at 5:49PM This was a short week because of Memorial Day and boy did it fly by.
This week I worked on contract boards, finish boards, furniture specs, and a million other tiny things in between. I think one of my favorite things is when the different reps come in and teach us about their product and what the behind the scenes of making it looks like. A designer also came in and talked about her art and the many different ways you can use art in a healthcare setting. That presentation was so interesting because the designers ask tons of different questions about what is up to code and meets fire code, they are so detailed its so crazy, I love it. I love watching their knack for finding a product that can keep a patient as safe as possible. I also love presentation because sometimes the rep will say this can outlast tears and scratches. And as soon as they it and someone gets the sample in their hand they will try to destroy that sample to make sure it is up to par with what they are representing.
And sometimes people send you really long samples of rubber base and you have to model it. (Lauren our comedic relief!)
This week I talked to Leslie about legal recognition, professional interaction and professional design. First we talked about the legal aspects of design. At ESa you must have a license and be registered in the state of TN. Values of the company are very important to this company. You also must take the NCIDQ when the time comes. Most everyone is involved with IIDA, many are LEED accredited and others are working closely with EDAC. They are also apart of life long learning and promote that with the CEUs that they attend. Not only does ESa have high values for their designers but is incredibly involved within their community. They do pro-bono work frequently with surrounding companies, they have a $5 Friday wear jeans and contribute to a local charity, work closely with the American Heart Association (David Miller is on the board) and during Christmas work with Ginger town to raise support (last year they raised over $2,000 this money went to children’s hospital, senior living facility, etc.) They also have a mentoring program called ACE that helps unprivileged students in schools be mentored by designers/architects to learn the basics of engineering, construction and make them aware of good design. We also talked about conflict within the job and what that looks like. Leslie said she has found most of her conflict to be with the clients and them wanting products to be a certain thing and meet their needs. Sometimes Leslie has to stand her ground and show them that it needs to meet code more than wanting their way or showing them new products that do the same thing as the old ones they are attached too. The only other conflict has been like a scheduling conflict when the client thought they were having a phone interview and going over the final review and the designers were unaware it was suppose to be their final presentation.
This week I want to introduce you to my supervisor, Leslie. Leslie is from Auburn University and has been working with ESa for a number of years. Like I’ve said before Leslie is very involved with the pro-bono projects, which she enjoys the most by receiving the affirmation from her clients when the design is finished. Leslie is also very involved in the many different programs of ESa and is the coordinator of many as well (ginger town). I’m very grateful Leslie has taken on the job of supervisor and takes the time to answer so many of my small questions, she has a lot of knowledge of this firm and is always willing to help us out.
week 3
Reader Comments (2)
Thank you for introducing Leslie! I always love putting a face with a name. I am not surprised that ESa is a strong community supporter and involved in pro bono work. In the future, be sure and include examples of the projects with which they've been involved. Does ESa support designers in sitting for the NCIDQ exam? Also, do they assist with designers becoming "licensed" with the State of Tennessee? What is the difference in architectural licensing and interior design licensing? You need to understand the distinction between the two. You may want to inquire with Leslie the benefits to the firm about pro bono work and the connection to the charitable endeavors. The connection between professionalism and building strong community seems to be linked. I would like you to investigate further, and what are your personal thoughts around all this?
As you know I am a detail hound. I want to know more about Leslie, how long she's been there, when she graduated from Auburn and any hobbies? Does working at a firm include a personal life? What does she do for fun? Inquiring minds want to know!
Again, continue to edit your posts. Each week should show improvement. Addition of images is great. Have a great week 4!
You look like you are having a great time at ESa! I can't wait to read more of your posts!