Member Spotlight – Q&A with Shane Harris
Shane Harris
Business Development Manager
Poettker Construction Company
Member Spotlight Q&A
Shane Harris currently serves as Business Development Manager with Poettker Construction Company, a relationship-driven construction firm specializing in construction management, design/build, general contracting and self-perform services since 1980. Poettker actively serves local, regional and national clients from its offices in Breese, Illinois, and Charlotte, North Carolina, and continues to expand its diverse portfolio in commercial, distribution, mixed-use, municipal, educational, federal government, healthcare, hospitality, industrial, recreational, retail and energy markets.
Q:
When did you decide to get into the commercial real estate industry? Was it always your focus?
A: When I was young, I always thought I would go to law school, but one semester into college and I realized I wanted a new path. With a little guidance I found engineering and fell in love with the principles surrounded by math, chemistry and analytical thinking.
My career started as a Field Engineer with the state, focused on bridge projects. After 10 years in that position, I wanted to expand my career. So, I made a transition to be a sales engineer for a concrete company. This introduced me to many new clients and the real estate industry. Over the last nine years, I have continued to grow my career with an engineering firm and recently made a wonderful move to Poettker Construction. My path has allowed me to see real estate developments literally from just an empty lot or old building into a beautiful, completed project.
Q:
What are some of the things you love about your job?
A: Simply, I love to meet new people and develop long-lasting relationships. This industry is about trust and helping one another. I pride myself on being able to provide those things with my clients, friends and colleagues. My career path has given me the advantage of making friends in many markets and several disciplines.
Q:
What is your CREW-St. Louis origin? When did you join? Why did you become a member?
A: I was first introduced to CREW in 2014 when I attended a Happy Hour event. It was a fabulous event, and everyone was so nice. As I learned more about CREW, I found out how welcomed I was and the mission to promote and support Women in real estate. My friend, Michelle Yates, was the first to tell me I should be a member and could join. In 2017 I joined and immediately joined the membership committee, to help spread the word and promote CREW. To this day, CREW is my favorite organization and we truly help our members promote business together.
Q:
What was the first CREW event you attended and what were your impressions?
A: In 2014, I attended three events because some friends recommended CREW. I have to say I had my reservations that I would be accepted at the events. I quickly learned how welcomed I was and how the members help each other. The CREW events are always valuable, great networking, amazing content and fun locations. CREW also puts a lot of focus into their member-only events and Dine-arounds as well, making sure the members get to know each other.
Q:
Please name a few of the projects you’ve been involved in, specifically in the St. Louis area that you are proud of.
A: Throughout my career, I have been involved with several developments on various levels. One of my favorite projects is my first job out of college, “The Creve Coeur Lake Bridge,” where I learned so much about engineering, construction and teamwork.
I am proud of the projects I have brought to my team that include industrial warehouses, commercial/medical office buildings, multi-family housing, school districts and community projects as well.
Q:
What other associations or volunteer activities are you involved with?
A: CREW (Membership Committee)
SLCCC (Golf Committee)
CCIM (Member)
ULI (Member)
MOSHE (Member)
KIDstruction (Volunteer)
Friends of Kids with Cancer (Volunteer)
Q:
How has COVID-19 impacted you and your organization?
A: COVID created a need for me to adjust my style of business development. Typically, there would be weekly local networking events and multiple conferences across the country allowing great opportunities to meet wonderful people and potential clients. Due to the shutdowns, the meetings have transitioned to on-line interaction and fewer face-to-face.
Q:
What else would you like your fellow CREW-St. Louis members to know about you?
A: On the personal side: Let me tell you about my family. I have an amazing wife, Kaelin, who is a pediatric nurse, an adorable 21-month-old son, Hudson, and 150-pound Great Dane named Mongo. Spending time outside with my family is my happy place.