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Happy National Volunteer Week! To celebrate the occasion, CSI would like to give a resounding round of applause to all our current and past volunteers. All week, we are putting the spotlight on CSI members who go the extra mile for their colleagues and the built community at large. Today’s spotlight is on CSI member Roby Peters, who values volunteer opportunities for the paths they create to meaningful connections.

How did you first decide to volunteer, and what is your area of expertise?   

I met a group of wonderful people at a monthly meeting and the energy was vibrant, the people were kind, fun, and I signed up for wherever help was needed.

I don’t have an area of expertise per se, but it started with me helping people with their name tags and that slowly evolved to event planning for the emerging professionals. I’m now a board member for CSI’s Portland Chapter and will be ABO’s future secretary once voted in.

Why is the work you do as a volunteer important to you?

For me, it’s a chance to get out of my comfort zone and meet new people. You would not guess that I am introverted, but when I am out and about, I love connecting people to people and doing my best to help make uncomfortable people comfortable and get them the information they need.

What impact have other volunteers had on your career?   

Through knowing the members, I have been introduced to the right people at the right time and have managed to have great events because of people’s friendships and belief in one another.

How might other AECO professionals volunteer in their community, and why might you encourage them to do so?   

I always ask myself, What am I doing with the rest of my time, when I am not working or sleeping, and how could I be of use? I am very new to the construction industry and I occasionally sign up with Habitat for Humanity. They are organized, provide tools, materials, and instructions. While they help educate me, I help them with labor and work along with the future homeowner. It’s heartfelt time if the temperature is just right, and perhaps I can make another connection that leads to yet other connections.

Favorite book?

Dharma Bums by Jack Kerouac

Hobbies?

Lately, it is finding a jazz record at the ABQ Collective and playing it while I paint. I’m also into mixed martial arts. I love riding my Thruxton motorcycle and camping out with my Golden girls, Anna and Kody.

You’re invited to learn how to become a CSI Volunteer or opt in to the CSI Volunteer Pool to easily apply for opportunities that are a match for your interests and availability.