I’m happy if I can share my knowledge and expertise
My name is Mārcis Smalkais, and I work as a project manager at Adven. The opportunity to share my acquired knowledge with others is a great source of inspiration for me. It’s particularly rewarding when I see that what I’ve shared has been useful, helping someone make their daily work easier or solve a problem they’ve faced.
Former university classmates led me to a job opportunity at Adven
In 2018, when Adven had just begun operating in the Latvian market and had already acquired companies in Valmiera and Cēsis, some former university classmates approached me with an invitation to join the company. I didn’t hesitate for long and soon accepted my first challenge as a project manager at Adven – overseeing the completion of a new boiler house project in Valmiera that was already underway.
I hold a Master’s degree in Heat Energy and Thermal Engineering from Riga Technical University, which helps me professionally manage projects related to heat production and transmission.
My primary job responsibilities involve project implementation, from identifying potential locations for new projects to closing contracts and collaborating with construction teams. I also oversee projects through to their completion.
Active projects keep everyday life active
I think that the most essential traits for my position are the ability to think and plan a few steps ahead, to stay calm under pressure, and, of course, to communicate effectively with different people. These three qualities help me perform my daily tasks with confident composure and sometimes even enjoy the process.
I appreciate the lack of routine in my work – my daily life is quite active, especially when there is an active project. At those time I often spend my days at the construction site, rarely spending the entire day at the computer. I value the ability to consistently plan my day – setting goals and then determining how and within what timeframe I will achieve them. I like that achieving my set goals is my responsibility.
Applying project manager’s skills to DIY projects
I enjoy engaging in various DIY projects. In a way, it’s also applying project management skills outside of work – planning, gathering necessary materials, and then diving into the building process. Although these “projects” involve physical work, they are usually a form of relaxation for me. I find this type of activity truly captivating, and it brings me more satisfaction than simply buying something ready-made.
Of course, my daily routine also includes various physical activities such as running, cycling, and hockey. I also like different orienteering activities like rogaining, which is a team orienteering sport over a particularly long distance.
I almost think of my work at Adven as a team sport, where fair play, fair rules and safety always comes first. It is teamwork that helps us achieve all our goals!
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