Michael Raddon: Leading with Insight, Mentorship, and a Passion for AEC Excellence

Senior Associate Regional Marketing Manager (Central Region) | Horrocks

Michael Raddon’s career in AEC marketing spans nearly 25 years. Before marketing for engineering firms, he worked for an excavating company through college, giving him practical insight into how utilities are installed—knowledge that would become useful to him several years hence as his career evolved into a leadership role in Horrocks’ marketing department. Since joining the firm in 2015, he has been instrumental in developing marketing strategies, mentoring others, and contributing to firm-wide growth. He is also actively involved in the Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS), having served in both chair and committee roles. His career is a testament to passion, insight, and dedication within the AEC community.

Michael has led the development of Horrocks’ marketing quality control initiatives, including the implementation of the firm’s “Let’s QC!” system, and has edited or managed nearly all of the firm's key proposals since he has been with the firm. His role as a mentor and strategic contributor continues to shape the firm’s marketing standards and team development.

How did you get started in the AEC industry?

Out of college, I worked for a private school system (preschool to 12th grade), writing and editing curriculum and marketing/communications materials. As philosophies about education and politics diverged between me and the school, I began looking for other opportunities. This was way back in 2001, when jobs could still be found in the want ads of newspapers. I answered a printed ad for a marketing/communications position at a local engineering firm, Spectrum Engineers. I’ve been doing AEC marketing ever since.

Where have you worked?

Since being hired by Spectrum Engineers in 2001, I've worked at just two professional services firms. After nearly 14 years at Spectrum, I joined Horrocks, where I’ve been for over a decade. I’ve learned a great deal from the amazing colleagues I’ve had the opportunity to work with. During my time at Spectrum, I received national recognition for an article I wrote on the Utah State Capitol Historic Restoration and Seismic Upgrade, published in Consulting-Specifying Engineer magazine.

Who has been your mentor or had the most influence on your career?

I cannot name just one. So, I’ll name three and note that I am always learning from others, including peers, mentors, and technical staff. 

• Jackie McGill
  
  
• Julee Attig
  
  
• Sandi Lampshire

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Sandy, Utah, where I still live (just two miles from my childhood home). I would also say that I "grew up" in the nearby Cottonwood Canyons. My family had a summer cabin in Silver Fork in Big Cottonwood Canyon, and my parents worked at Alta Lodge in Little Cottonwood Canyon for more than 46 years. My brother and I spent many days there, including working alongside our parents through our high school years. At the Lodge, we met and worked with people from around the world. That exposure helped shape my deep appreciation for nature and cultural diversity.

Where do you see yourself professionally in 5 years/what is your 5-year goal?

Having confidently transitioned leadership of my region to a dedicated team member, I hope to focus on goals such as further developing our quality processes and possibly overseeing another sub-discipline within Horrocks’ marketing department.

What skill would you most like to develop, professionally or personally?

Patience—in all aspects of life.

What motivates you most to come to work?

My amazing team, both within my region and across the company.

What’s one productivity tool you couldn’t live without?

InDesign and my iPhone.

What piece of advice would you give to yourself during your first month in the industry?

Relax! (Still a good reminder.)

What is the last book you read?

A Marriage at Sea: A True Story of Love, Obsession and Shipwreck by Sophie Elmhirst. I'm currently reading The CIA Book Club: The Secret Mission to Win the Cold War with Forbidden Literature by Charlie English.

What podcast do you listen to most frequently?

Your Stupid Opinions and Small Town Murder.

Which industry person would you like by your side during a zombie apocalypse? Why?

Sandi Lampshire—she’s a creative thinker with a practical edge, and her husband Jon is a police detective.

What are your most used emojis?

Probably the smiley face ?

Is there anything else you would like the industry to know about you?

I appreciate the AEC industry for giving me a fulfilling career and countless opportunities to learn from the very best.

I hope that through leadership, strategic thinking, and unwavering support for industry peers, I have helped leave a lasting mark on AEC marketing in Utah. Through award-winning writing, a quality-focused approach, and a passion for team development, I strive to raise the bar for marketing excellence across the region.