Fostering Professional Development at S.C. Swiderski: Madeline Check
Madeline Check
Madeline's journey into the architectural development and design field started in 2020 when she began her career with S.C. Swiderski (SCS) as an Architectural Drafter. This role fueled her dedication, growth, and passion for the craft and laid the foundation for her evolving expertise and professional development.
Madeline's early days with SCS were filled with learning and collaboration. As an Architectural Drafter, she engaged closely with the Development and Design Departments. The SCS staff played a pivotal role in her growth, providing guidance, mentorship, and practical knowledge. Madeline also collaborated with civil teams and city planning members that SCS partners with on various projects. These interactions broadened her perspective and deepened her understanding of real estate developments and the relationship between architectural design and urban planning.
While still pursuing her studies, Madeline transitioned to the role of Development Designer. This shift marked a significant milestone in her career, allowing her to apply her academic knowledge to real-world scenarios. The transition was not without its challenges, but Madeline embraced them with enthusiasm and determination. She often reflects on some of her initial site plans, recognizing the considerable improvement in her skills over time. This self-awareness and willingness to learn have been critical to her professional growth.
Madeline often reflects fondly on her initial roles with SCS, recognizing them as the building blocks of her career. These experiences have shaped her into the professional she is today, instilling in her a deep appreciation for the collaborative nature of architectural and urban planning work. She values the lessons learned from her mentors and colleagues and is eager to continue growing and contributing to the field.
Madeline's contributions to SCS have been both impactful and inspiring. Over the past summer, she presented at several SCS events, showcasing her expertise and representing the company to a broader audience. These presentations not only highlighted her project development skills but also her ability to communicate complex ideas effectively. Her poise and professionalism during these events have earned her recognition within the company and from external stakeholders.
Madeline recently graduated from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee, earning a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies and a Certificate in Urban Planning. These educational credentials equipped her with a solid understanding of architectural principles and urban planning strategies, setting the stage for a continued successful career at SCS.
As Madeline steps into her new role as a Development Design Specialist, she brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience. She is excited to apply her learning in design, planning, and communication to her new responsibilities. Her journey from an Architectural Drafter to a Development Design Specialist is a testament to her hard work, resilience, and passion for the field. Madeline looks forward to continuing to represent SCS in upcoming projects, contributing to the company's success, and furthering her professional growth.
Madeline's story is not just a reflection of her individual achievements but also a celebration of the collaborative spirit and supportive environment at SCS. Her journey reminds us of the importance of nurturing talent, fostering growth, and encouraging innovation in real estate development. We look forward to witnessing the continued success and contributions of Madeline in the years to come.
5 Tips When Moving out of an Apartment
Moving out of an apartment can be challenging, but with planning and organization, it can go smoothly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ease your move.
1. Plan Ahead
Create a Timeline
Begin by establishing a detailed timeline for your move. This timeline should include critical dates such as the move-out date, moving truck rental, and any other significant deadlines. By setting a comprehensive timeline, you can ensure that you remain on schedule and minimize last-minute stress.
Inform Your Landlord
Inform your landlord of your plan to move. Most lease agreements stipulate a notice period, usually ranging from 30 to 60 days. Please review your lease agreement carefully and ensure that you provide written notice within the specified timeframe. This will allow your landlord sufficient time to secure a new tenant.
Notify Important Contacts
Submit a change of address form with the postal service to have your mail forwarded to your new address. Inform important contacts, such as banks, insurance companies, and utility providers, of your new address. Arrange for the transfer or cancellation of services such as utilities, internet, and cable. Schedule the disconnection at your current residence and the connection at your new one to prevent any interruptions. Update your address with any subscriptions, memberships, or online accounts to continue receiving all necessary correspondence and deliveries.
2. Organize Your Belongings
Declutter
Before you start packing, take the time to declutter your belongings. Go through each room and decide what you want to keep, donate, sell, or discard. This will make the packing process easier and reduce the number of items you need to move.
Inventory Your Items
Create an inventory of your belongings. This will assist in tracking your items during the move and ensure that nothing is misplaced or left behind. It can also be helpful for insurance purposes.
Gather Packing Supplies
Gather all essential packing materials, including boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and markers. Free boxes are commonly available at local retailers or through online platforms. Ensuring you have the appropriate supplies will streamline the packing process and increase efficiency.
3. Pack Strategically
Start with Non-Essentials
Start by packing items that are not used daily, such as seasonal clothing, decorations, and books. This approach allows for gradual packing and helps to prevent feelings of being overwhelmed.
Label Boxes Clearly
Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This practice facilitates unpacking and helps in quickly locating essential items.
Pack Fragile Items with Care
To safeguard fragile items, use bubble wrap or packing paper for protection. Place these items in durable boxes and clearly label them as "fragile." Ensure that any empty spaces within the boxes are filled with packing material to prevent movement of the items during transit.
4. Arrange for Moving Services
Hire Professional Movers
If you choose to hire professional movers, conduct research and schedule them well in advance. Obtain quotes from several companies and review feedback to identify a reliable service. Ensure you communicate any specific requirements or concerns with the moving company.
Rent a Moving Truck
If you intend to handle your move without professional movers, it is best to reserve a moving truck or van. Assess the size of the vehicle required based on the quantity of your belongings. Ensure that you book the truck well in advance to guarantee its availability.
Arrange for Help
Consider seeking assistance from friends or family members for packing and moving. Additional help can make the process quicker and easier to handle.
5. Clean and Inspect Your Apartment
Deep Clean
Thoroughly clean your apartment before you move out. This includes cleaning appliances, wiping down surfaces, and vacuuming or mopping floors. A clean apartment will increase the likelihood of receiving your full security deposit back.
Conduct a Final Walkthrough
Do a final walkthrough of your apartment to ensure that you have not left anything behind. Check all closets, cabinets, and storage areas. Take photos or videos of the apartment's condition for your records.
Return Keys
Return all keys, including any copies, to your landlord or property manager. This typically includes keys to the apartment, mailbox, and any common areas.
Moving out of an apartment involves careful planning and consideration. Planning ahead, organizing belongings, packing strategically, arranging the move, and cleaning and inspecting the apartment before leaving can improve the process. Adequate preparation is essential to make the move as smooth as possible.
SCS Announces New Chief Operating Officer
Nicole Blum
Chief Operating Officer
“Work hard, show grace, and be thankful.”
S.C. Swiderski (SCS) is thrilled to announce another great moment in our company’s history. Known for integrity, quality, trust, and innovation in developing communities over the last 32 years, SCS is taking a new step forward.
Entrusting our future in our new Chief Operating Officer (COO), Nicole Blum, the company is strategically aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency, improving our processes, and unifying our diverse business units to better serve our customers, employees, and communities.
We are proud to have Nicole lead us into the next phase of our growth. She has been a vital part of our leadership team, serving as Director of HR & Administration, where she oversaw our HR, Safety, Compliance, and IT functions. Nicole recently led our company through our ERP implementation while maintaining her normal responsibilities.
Nicole joined SCS just over two years ago and came with 15 years of experience spanning leadership, human resources, and operations in prominent Wisconsin companies. She brings to SCS a perspective that combines change management expertise, relationship building, and practical insights.
Nicole has true strengths in commitment to high-performing teams, fostering relationships, and aligns with SCS’s core mission, vision, and values. All of Nicole’s experience has led her to SCS, and we are more than confident Nicole will be a presence that will invigorate our operations and enrich our company culture.
Please join the rest of SCS in congratulating Nicole. Together we embark on a new era of passionately providing housing that strengthens communities!