Kelly Uhrich is a Project Manager in the Phoenix office. She has a passion for outdoor projects that bring family and friends together to create lifelong memories. An avid outdoorswoman herself, Kelly shares more about why working at RVi has been a breath of fresh air and a source of inspiration.

What initially inspired you to pursue a career in Landscape Architecture?

The reason I wanted to pursue a career in Landscape Architecture is because I wanted to be a golf course architect. Throughout my adolescence, I spent a lot of time playing sports and attending my siblings’ games. I wanted to design outdoor spaces for people to recreate and gather with friends and family, like my family did. I associate parks with friends, and golf with family, so I wanted to be able to provide those places for other people to enjoy.

Can you tell us about a (RVi) project or achievement of which you’re particularly proud?

I am proud of the work we are doing with Greenlight Communities. They focus on workforce housing here in the Phoenix metro area and have been very successful. We are growing the number of projects we do with them, and it has been very rewarding.

What is one professional goal or aspiration are you currently working toward?

Professionally, I want to continue to grow and learn as a project manager. RVi sent me to a great training program to set a solid foundation and I want to keep seeking out ways to be better. In my spare time, I’ve been listening to podcasts and reading articles to build on that foundation.

Tell us about a challenge you faced in your journey and how you overcame it.

I have struggled at times to find my place in the realm of landscape architecture. There are so many facets of the job, and for a while, I wasn’t sure where I fit in. I started my college studies in structural engineering, and I didn’t think I was the most creative person in the world. But, as a project manager, I’ve discovered I get to focus on logistics and construction along with elements of creativity. For me, it’s the best of all worlds.

Why RVi?

I haven’t had the best experiences at all my jobs in the past and RVi has been a deep breath of fresh air. The people, the culture, the understanding that we are all human and life happens–it all contributes to a culture and atmosphere I’m grateful to be part of. I have always felt supported in both personal and career goals. A lot of companies say, “We’re like a family,” but at RVi, it’s true.

Do you have any exciting plans for the summer?

I look forward to going home to Minnesota this summer. I have a family wedding to attend, so I will be spending time with friends and family, as well as relaxing at my parents’ cabin on a lake. My brother and I share season tickets to the MN Loons soccer team, and I make sure to attend at least one game when I’m home. I’ll be fitting some golf in there too, of course!