Co-Chair Member Spotlight: Patricia Verburgt
Thursday, Aug 19, 2021
Patricia Verburgt currently works at DIRTT Environmental Solutions Inc. (DIRTT) A local business starting right here in Calgary in 2004, as the Business Development Manager for Alberta. Currently the Co-Chair for CREW Calgary Events Committee, this is her 2nd term in this role (made all the more interesting with COVID!)
My day job does not feel like a job at all, because I get to do what I love, which is connect, and relationship build with our Business Community at large. Daily I get to meet and learn about clients (prospective and many existing), A+D, GC’s, Commercial Real Estate professionals (from brokers, property managers, developers, building owners etc.). Getting to be part of their trusted circle, finding solutions to their challenges is my “best day”! (plus sharing wine on a patio!)
DIRTT in a nutshell is a leader in Modular Interiors. A wholly different process to customize and envision the build out of interior commercial spaces. “Digitizing Construction” is made possible with ICE; our software and technology platform. It drives your unique design, our engineering, specification and manufacturing. We make this process so much easier through our immersive VR; “see and experience” your space, before it gets constructed.
One of DIRTT/ELEMENT’s most exciting project is the CMLC’s Platform Innovation Centre, just recently announced. This is a wholly new incubator space created for the emerging Tech Sector. This 50,000 sq/ft facility will provide “under one roof” - work, gathering, class room spaces for startups, innovators, entrepreneurs; where they can interconnect and test their technologies. DIRTT is thrilled to be part of the Project Delivery Team.
- What do you enjoy most about working in the Commercial Real Estate Industry?
Being peripheral to the Commercial Real Estate Industry, it is that moment, when you are their trusted support, providing key resources, like visualization or costing tools; delivering on a successful space for the tenant that is most rewarding and enjoyable.
2. How has CREW brought value to your career?
Without a doubt, being able to connect and network with the members, learn about their business and in turn giving me opportunities to engage (ask for advice, getting an introduction) has been so valuable to me on a personal and professional basis.
3. What are three reasons you would encourage a colleague to join CREW?
- The Calgary CREW Chapter is such a welcoming and active chapter; with such dynamic women (and men)
- Great opportunities to make personal connections with the Commercial Real Estate Industry
- Excellent Networking opportunities
4. How are you positively adapting to the work-from-home and work/life challenges presented by COVID-19 measures?
COVID has really showcased how resilient we are. It didn’t take long to find ways to personally adapt ourselves and motivate ourselves; That included going to virtual wine/chat sessions. We rejigged the house, so my husband and I had proper works spaces. We also found opportunities to take breaks together aka have lunch together. There was also checking in on each other and making sure there was actually an “end to the workday”
5. Share an interesting or little-known fact about yourself.
Interesting fact about myself: I was born in the Netherlands (My first language is Dutch) Verburgt is actually my maiden name (a very dutch last name)
A favorite hobby is biking (the pedal kind); 2 years ago, my husband entered us in an 80km bike ride around Panorama. It was a fund raiser for Branch Out. I hadn’t biked in many years. I had to buy a brand-new bike that year (in April) and do a lot of training so that I would be confident that I could do this ride. The ride was mid-June. Unbeknown to me, the ride was timed. I came in 3rd for the women. Are you kidding me…
On my bucket list is to travel to Egypt – this part of the world and its history has been a lifelong interest and fascination for me.