Hello!
I’m Ansley Watkins, and I'm honored to introduce myself as a new Project Manager at MurphyEpson!
Here’s a little bit about me:
I grew up in Metro Atlanta and later moved to Ohio for school. I have experience as an analyst, researcher and interpreter. I’ve specialized in natural resources and have been privileged to see many parts of the world. I also enjoy learning about and utilizing different spatial tools, including GIS (Geographic Information System). Earlier this year, I spent some time backpacking, scuba diving and utilizing my map skills across a few countries – including Japan, Pakistan, Guatemala and Australia – to learn more about landscapes and other cultures. I believe this global perspective, including my work in sustainability and community engagement, will translate incredibly to this role.
I value purposeful, accessible work – something ME does every day!
Here’s a bit about my first week at ME:
The ME team starts each week by sharing updates and overviews on projects and providing outlooks for the week regarding workloads, events and other project elements. It’s a meeting of the minds in the conference room. This session – known as the Work in Progress (WIP) – was a valuable way to get started.
I left the meeting with a better sense of what was in store for the days ahead – and I think my new teammates did, too!
Throughout the week, I had the chance to sit down and learn from each member of the ME team. I learned about the roles of Project Managers, Project Coordinators, Art Directors, etc. I picked their brains about leading engagement conversations, designing impactful collateral and pitching stories to the media, to name a few areas of our work. Everyone welcomed me with kind words and generously offered to answer any questions.
It was fascinating to learn how the team gets projects across the finish line. These conversations made me feel more in tune with the mission. Plus, I began to understand why ME has been so successful for the past 35+years!
Throughout the week, I found the team to be deeply mission-driven. Everyone has an acute respect for their clients, their audiences and – at the end of the day – the greater good. The staff is excited and driven to hear and guide clients. This is clear at every moment.
Looking Ahead
As the weeks continue, I look forward to diving into my projects, learning about the team and meeting clients/partners individually. I am most looking forward to seeing the positive impacts of ME projects on Central Ohio, getting to know community members/partners and utilizing different tools to get the job done.
I’m excited to get started!
