We have an amazing group of staff members at SIMPCO and we want to make sure you all get to know them! Say “Hello” to February’s Staff Spotlight, Joe Surdam. Joe serves as a Regional Planner for SIMPCO.
Who Inspires you?
A. The two people that inspire me the most are my parents. Through their examples and values they have led me to be a better person, more dedicated in all my works, and making the best out of everything.
Q: Where is your favorite place in the world?
A. I haven’t traveled to many states outside of the Midwest, but I would list Denver, Colorado as my favorite place to visit. I have visited Denver multiple times with family, friends and even through a class as student at Iowa State University. All of my visits to Denver have been great and there are countless outdoor recreational activities to partake in. As a Regional Planner, I’ve come to appreciate how much emphasis a city, like Denver, places on urban design and environmental-friendly features.
Q: What do you like best about working for SIMPCO?
A: The thing I like the best about working for SIMPCO is the variety of projects that are available to work on. Whether it is a comprehensive plan, a grant, GIS mapping, or simply putting together data, I think its’ a great opportunity for one to become a better-rounded planner.
Q. What are you most proud of?
A: One of the things I am most proud of is receiving my Community and Regional Planning Degree at Iowa State University. Throughout high school and the beginning of college, I wasn’t necessarily the greatest student. But the group of friends I made at Iowa State had a very positive impact on me, which led me to become more dedicated in my studies and passionate about the Community and Regional Planning profession.
| Thank you to Joe Surdam for sharing with us! SIMPCO members are encouraged to reach out to Joe for assistance with projects and grants! |