As Thanksgiving approaches, we at Tec Inc Engineering & Design are reminded that true gratitude is best expressed through action. Our team doesn't just talk about making a difference—we actively engage in supporting our community through meaningful volunteer work.
Often, that volunteer activity is giving back to the organizations that support Tec and the industry as a whole, such as the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) and the Society of Marketing Professional Services (SMPS). Other times it is supporting industry causes or building awareness of the industry with the next generation.
A Culture of Giving
At Tec Inc, volunteering isn't just an occasional activity—it's a core part of who we are. Our leaders have long set an example of dedicating their time, expertise, and passion to numerous organizations that make a real difference in our region.
Tec Inc. collectively supports several organizations and events, including:
· The ACE Mentor Program in Cleveland
· Sponsoring community events like golf outings, including events for the Lakeland Community College Foundation and University Hospitals Foundation
· Sponsoring the Rock n' Bowl for SMPS Northeast Ohio
· Sponsoring the Turkey Bowl for the Willoughby Western Lake County Chamber of Commerce (WWLCC), and putting together a team of staff members to participate
Tec also encourages individual volunteerism, informally allowing employees time to give back.
Courtney Van Ostran currently serves on the board of the Granville Arts Boosters as Co -Vice President and as the Secretary of the Board of Directors for Let the Light In, an organization that provides support for individuals who have suffered a miscarriage or pregnancy loss. She says working at Tec affords her the flexibility to make commitments to those organizations and they have supported her in her efforts to benefit those organizations.
President Adam Kilbourne has also led by example, dedicating his time to Torchlight Youth Mentoring (formerly Big Brothers and Big Sisters of NEO). For many years, he has served as a tree designer for the Festival of Trees Gala fundraiser. The trees are designed by local individuals or businesses and auctioned at the gala. This year he partnered with his mother, Pam Kilbourne, on a Fall Harvest Tree.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Of course, time and effort are also dedicated to thanking the people and organizations that have supported Tec Inc. over the years. Our engineers have served as mentors at University of Cincinnati Career events and at local High School and Middle School STEM events. Drew Robinson also volunteers to speak at Willard Grizzel Middle School’s 8th grade career fair this year to inspire the next generation of engineers and educate about the AEC industry.
Both Adam and Courtney give their time to the Society of Marketing Professional Services (SMPS), Adam currently serving as the Secretary/Treasurer on the National Board of Directors and Courtney serves as the Chair of Amplify AEC, the annual SMPS conference.
Why We Volunteer
At Tec Inc, we understand that our success is intrinsically linked to the strength of our community. Each hour volunteered, each board position held, each student inspired—these are the ways we express our gratitude and give back.
This Thanksgiving, we're thankful not just for our achievements, but for the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
From all of us at Tec Inc Engineering & Design, we wish you a happy and meaningful Thanksgiving.