Change occurs in many forms throughout our business careers. It can happen gradually, in the form of technological advancements that have occurred over the last 25 years and have changed the way we work. Or quickly, when a business associate or client may leave their job or a fellow employee is relocated or reassigned. The downturn in the economy has created a great deal of change for a large number of people in the construction industry. Virtually all companies that work in construction related fields have felt the effects of the downturn.

My company was hit very hard by the economic downturn and even with the layoff of half my staff. I came to realize that I could both struggle through the down turn with drastically less revenue and put the remaining employees at risk or attempt to secure more stable employment for myself and the remaining employees. I was fortunate that Hankins & Anderson recognized the value of my company's remaining employees and acquired my firm in March 2009. In joining Hankins & Anderson I've benefited greatly from a big picture mentality encouraged by Mike Mathews (CEO of Hankins & Anderson and past president of ACEC Virginia). The reading and mentoring he's offered have been both motivating and important in my development. I was encouraged to read several books relating to company development, leadership and management. That reading has fueled my interest in other books on management and leadership. I came to my new position within Hankins & Anderson willing to change and with a desire to learn. It's been particularly revealing to me how I had handled issues with my own company (or didn't handle them), the opportunities I missed and the resources available to me that I didn't utilize. I've learned that ACEC Virginia and the relationships you foster within the groups and committees can be a valuable aid both from a management perspective and as a resource to connect with other professionals.

• Learn as much as you can. Ask lots of questions but do your research so you avoid asking about the obvious.
• Be willing to change most everything you do but don't change your core values. If your values don't align with the company's values you are in the wrong place.
• Be positive. People want to work with upbeat people.
• Speak up. Remember you offer a new perspective.

I've shared some of the elements of change I've experienced but I'd like to hear other people's views.

Steve Applegate