Megan Geiser Named a Rising Young Professional of the Year

The Daily Reporter selected KA-Madison’s Project Manager Megan Geiser to receive a Rising Young Professional of the Year award.

Background

Geiser grew up surrounded by the construction/trades industry, as her father was a carpenter. Visiting job sites throughout her childhood sparked an interest in construction. She earned her degree in Construction Management and graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stout.

In 2016, Geiser joined Kraus-Anderson as an intern. She now holds the title of Project Manager I.

Outside of work, Geiser enjoys hiking and spending time outdoors. She also likes to cook, play video games, read, and spend time with family. Geiser is a mom to an adorable 2-year-old, Shae.

Project Highlights

Geiser works on a variety of projects and in a variety of different sectors— retail, K-12, and healthcare, among others. Some of her most notable clients and projects include:

• Home Run Auto Group— On Geiser’s first day as a KA intern, she witnessed the groundbreaking of the auto group’s dealership and continues to work with them today, leading the charge on a variety of projects, from remodels to new construction.
• Verizon Wireless— Geiser is second in command with this well-known client and is often the primary contact. The project builds are very mechanical/technical.
• Memorial Hospital of Layfayette County— Geiser is an active leader on this large healthcare project that is scheduled to break ground this upcoming spring, her biggest project to date.

“Megan’s abilities and work ethic have greatly benefited all the projects she has been a part of,” the Madison office’s VP / Director of Operations, Tom Roepke said. “She is willing to support project teams in whatever way necessary, as a leader or in a needed supporting role.”

Professional Development

Geiser, a life-long learner, values continuing education and pursues opportunities that nurture growth.

Sustainability is a primary focus for Geiser. As one of the first two people at Kraus-Anderson to receive WELL AP certification, she is dedicated to green practices. 

While at the forefront of the emerging trend at Kraus-Anderson, she also showcased her industry leadership by becoming one of the first 10,000 people globally to earn the credential at the time of her exam. 

“It’s important to make buildings that perform to better keep the health of the people that use them,” Geiser said. “I want to build buildings that will serve, not only as a functional physical structure but also as a space that provides safe and healthy working conditions long-term.” 

In addition to WELL certification, she also earned the Associate Constructor Credential through the American Institute of Contractors (AIC). She hopes to move to the next level and gain the Certified Professional Constructor title after an exam this fall.

Geiser also takes opportunities to better her soft skills, taking a variety of classes surrounding topics, such as public speaking, relationship building, and leadership.

Diversity and Inclusion

Geiser actively participates in Kraus-Anderson’s diversity and inclusion efforts. She attends small group dialogues and Lunch ‘N’ Learns, as well as sat as a panelist for one of Kraus-Anderson’s “Courageous Conversations” series. 

“DEI is always something I’ve been a champion for. I really care about people and want to make sure everyone feels valued. One quote that doesn’t really sit right with me is ‘If they don’t save you a seat at the table, bring your own chair.’ As leaders, we should make a point to ensure there are seats for everyone. You miss out on really unique and interesting perspectives if you don’t,” Geiser said.

Community Involvement

Throughout college, Geiser joined and/or started a variety of organizations. She organized a “Women in Construction” group, where women built community and acted as a resource for one another. 

Geiser participated in and frequently volunteered with Stout’s construction club. She particularly enjoyed constructing the addition to the town’s humane society.

Sigma Lambda Chi, an organization that “recognizes outstanding students in construction curricula,” requested she joins. She served as secretary in her last year.

Throughout her professional career, Geiser serves as an active member of Wisconsin Commercial Real Estate Women (W-CREW) and often volunteers to attend career days. She travels to Milwaukee to work with lower-opportunity students, specifically females, and guides them through a mock project, providing constructive feedback and mentorship.

She appreciates this format, as she can showcase a viable career path for the students and act as a guide for those who have questions/show interest.

“Construction isn’t a career pipeline often mentioned to girls. It’s important to show them that construction is an option,” Megan said.

Conclusion

The Daily Reporter will recognize Geiser and her many achievements at an event this October in Milwaukee.

“I’m really looking forward to meeting some of the other honorees,” Geiser said. “It’s really exciting to be recognized on such a large stage! I’ve worked very hard to develop myself and really feel like I’ve started to hit my stride.”