2017 Women in Building Services: Katie Perloski, Trace Pool Design, A Division of Lothrop Associates

Name: Katie Perloski

Title: Design/Technical 

Company Name: Trace Pool Design, A Division of Lothrop Associates

Years in real estate: 7

What real estate associations or organizations are you a member of? Northeast Pool & Spa Association, Affiliation 

How have you navigated obstacles to achieve success in your career?

Perception!... The key to navigating obstacles. I discovered early on in my career to view so-called “obstacles” as a positive step in my career growth towards success, and not a negative road block. This enabled me to face challenges head-on. Instead of quickly reacting and focusing on what I can’t do, I learned to step back and assess the situation to focus on what I can do. This was especially helpful in confronting the challenge of being a young woman in a predominantly male oriented industry. For example, when visiting construction sites for inspection, I was continually faced with demonstrating my knowledge and experience in the industry to gain respect from co-workers.

How do you play your strengths to your advantage in your career?

Playing to my strengths begins with an honest assessment of my attributes and, feedback from others. Determined to be a dependable, continual learner coupled with excellent organization skills and ability to multi-task effectively directly helps to optimize my time, create efficiency and build relationships. This is applied on a daily basis in managing a constant flow of numerous deadlines to meet simultaneously that are completed by various colleagues and subconsultants. Playing to my strengths has been successful! I was given an opportunity to design a large municipal swimming pool that won a design award from the Northeast Pool & Spa Association. 

What trends are you seeing so far this year? 

A major trend in the pool market is the inclusion of amenity spaces with swimming pools such as lap pools, whirlpool spas, mineral pools, cold plunge pools, doggie pools, spray pads, steam and saunas, hammams, water features: waterfalls, water tables, water fountains, and sculptural features.

What do you do for fun?

I enjoy painting and being outdoors hiking. Kaaterskill Falls has been my favorite experience so far.