Monica Klinkmueller’s journey into the AEC industry started as a happy accident. After graduating with a degree in Communications and Graphic Design in June 2020, she was searching for any job that would allow her to use her design skills. “I thought I’d end up at an ad agency, but the pandemic had other plans,” she says. A post in the Marketing Women of Atlanta Facebook group led her to an opportunity at Blue Cypress Consulting, and she’s been there ever since.
She quickly found herself drawn to the unique blend of creativity, strategy, and impact within the AEC space. “The work we do truly makes a difference in our communities,” Monica says. That same desire for meaningful work and growth is what led her to join SMPS Atlanta. “It offered a space to grow professionally while learning from experienced marketers and industry leaders.”
Since joining in early 2022, SMPS Atlanta has played a significant role in Monica’s professional development. “From day one, I felt welcomed by a group of professionals who are generous with their knowledge, support, and encouragement,” she says. “One of the aspects I value most is how SMPS creates ongoing opportunities to learn. The shared commitment to professional development within the organization keeps me motivated to keep learning and evolving.”
Among her proudest accomplishments is earning her CPSM certification in September 2024. “I spent much of the summer studying and attending the study group sessions, so I was thrilled to find out I passed,” she recalls. “Being awarded the CPSM Scholarship from SMPS Atlanta made it all possible.”
In her current role as a Senior Marketing Coordinator at Blue Cypress, Monica enjoys the variety and challenge of each day. “Whether it’s proposal development, creating graphics, or planning company events, every day looks different and I like how that keeps things exciting and allows me to grow in my role.” As part of a two-person marketing team, she’s learned the importance of structure and focus during busy seasons. “My strategy is to block my calendar with focus time, make a big to-do list with everything I have on my plate, put my headphones on, and get to work!”
Her involvement with SMPS has continued to deepen. Encouraged by her supervisor Heather Collins, she joined the Communications Committee and recently began attending Membership Committee meetings as well. “I love assisting with creating event and program graphics because it lets me stretch my design muscles,” she says. “The committees are also a great place to grow your network and build deeper connections.”
When asked what advice she’d give to someone considering joining SMPS, Monica doesn’t hesitate. “It’s so refreshing getting to talk to other people who ‘get’ what you do each day and can relate to the challenges and frustrations you face.”
Outside of work, Monica enjoys being outdoors and staying active. “Spending time outside is my favorite way to decompress. I love walking or running on the Beltline, playing in my kickball league, or if the weather is nice, reading a book on the patio.” Her weekend highlight is a trip to the local farmers market. “It’s almost time for my favorite season: tomato season!” And if you’re looking for a fun fact about Monica, she casually drops, “I’ve gone skydiving,” proving she’s just as adventurous in life as she is in her career.
