The best part of my job has always been helping people connect, whether that be to ideas, opportunities, or each other. When I joined Catalyst Construction this summer as a Development Executive, I found a team that shares this same mindset. We don’t just build projects; we build partnerships. And that’s what makes this work so rewarding.
Finding My Way to Catalyst
Before joining Catalyst, I built more than 20 years of experience across retail, business development, and recruitment, including time dedicated to the construction industry. My career has taken me through a variety of industries, from staffing and recruitment to for-profit education, and each experience has shaped how I approach relationship-building today.
When the opportunity arose to join Catalyst, it felt like a natural next step. I came from a competitor where I was in the same role, often bidding against Catalyst on projects. I already knew of the company’s stellar reputation and strong leadership team, and that was a huge draw for me.
On a personal note, Catalyst President Adam Arndt and I go way back, all the way to our days at Thomas More High School in Milwaukee. When I first got into construction, Adam was a great resource for me as I learned the ropes, so reconnecting with him and joining the Catalyst team just made sense.
What I Do Day to Day
As a Development Executive, no two days are the same, and that’s exactly what I love about this job. My role centers around building relationships with people who are shaping the commercial real estate landscape: brokers, architects, developers, and lenders.
Most days you’ll find me out meeting with clients over coffee or lunch, attending networking events, or walking through projects with our leadership and estimating teams. I thrive in that variety, every day brings new conversations, challenges, and opportunities.
At its core, my job is about connecting people and helping them see how Catalyst can bring their vision to life. It’s a long-term, relationship-driven process, not a transactional one. For me, success comes from trust and follow-through, not quick wins.
Clearing Up Common Misconceptions
Since joining Catalyst, I’ve realized there are a few common misconceptions about who we are and what we do.
Some people assume Catalyst only builds churches, schools, or senior living communities. While we’ve certainly built a strong reputation in those sectors, our work extends far beyond that. Our dedicated commercial team takes on everything from small tenant improvements and remodels to large ground-up builds across industries like retail, industrial, healthcare, and multifamily.
Another common misconception is that Catalyst only works with a single real estate partner. While we collaborate closely with many industry professionals, Catalyst operates independently, partnering with a wide range of developers, brokers, and business owners throughout Wisconsin and beyond.
Big or Small, Every Project Matters
One of the things I’ve enjoyed sharing with clients is how flexible and responsive Catalyst is when it comes to project size. We take on everything from 2,000-square-foot renovations to 100,000-square-foot buildouts, and we approach every project with the same level of attention and urgency.
Responsiveness is a big focus for me. In my previous role, turning estimates around quickly was key, and that’s something I’ve carried over to Catalyst. We strive to deliver estimates with accuracy and urgency for our clients, and even if we’re not the front-runner for a project, we’ll often compare bids, provide early test fits, or offer pricing insights to help clients make informed decisions. That kind of openness and collaboration builds trust and lays the groundwork for future partnerships.
What Sets Catalyst Apart
Being in the construction industry, a few things stood out to me right away about Catalyst.
First is creativity and open-mindedness. The team doesn’t default to “no.” Instead, we look for ways to make projects work, even if it takes a little extra effort or out-of-the-box thinking.
Second is responsiveness. I’ve heard from many clients that they’re impressed with how quickly Catalyst follows up and keeps communication flowing. In an industry where some inquiries can go unanswered for weeks, that reliability makes a difference.
Finally, there’s reputation. Time and time again, when I meet with people in the community, they describe Catalyst as an excellent company with a great reputation. That kind of brand equity has been built over decades, and it’s something I’m proud to be part of.
Looking Ahead
Even though I’m still relatively new, I see tremendous opportunity ahead for Catalyst’s commercial team. We already have a strong foundation and leadership structure, and now it’s about expanding our reach, both geographically and across industries.
I’m excited to continue growing Catalyst’s presence in sectors like retail, industrial, healthcare, and multifamily, while also supporting projects throughout Wisconsin, South Dakota, and Arizona.
For me, it’s all about awareness, helping more people understand who Catalyst is, what we can do, and why we’re the right partner to bring their vision to life.
Closing Thoughts
The past few months have reaffirmed something I’ve always believed: relationships are at the heart of everything we do. Whether it’s a small renovation or a large-scale build, the most rewarding part of my job is helping people see what’s possible, and then making it happen.
I’m looking forward to what’s ahead for Catalyst and for the opportunity to continue building lasting partnerships that move our communities forward.
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