KP: I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in English Language Arts; therefore, I have a strong passion for writing. My first job out of college was working as a legal assistant for a few years until my boss at the time announced his retirement. At that point, I got my first job with Schluter Systems, over 10 years ago, in the accounting department. After five years in accounting, I moved into the technical department as a technical writer, where I received extensive knowledge on Schluter products and system installation, and I was involved in creating and updating literature, and answering questions on product and system installations from our field reps. I was later approached to join the International Technical Network, newly developed in Schluter North America, as the product standards and sustainability coordinator, where I was introduced to the worlds of sustainability and industry standards, and quickly realized this was my ideal position.

SW: What does your role as sustainability and standards manager at Schluter-Systems entail?

KP: I currently manage the sustainability, standards, certifications and industry associations functions of the International Technical Network for Schluter Systems North America. I am heavily involved in the development and maintenance of Schluter’s sustainability efforts, which includes sustainability document development and maintenance and sustainability content development and implementation. I also oversee the functions of industry standards efforts and work closely with our industry partners on important standards development, outreach and enhancement.

SW: What is one of your favorite parts of your job?

KP: I’m not sure if I can choose just one! I love being able to collaborate with our industry partners about important standards, providing our customers with sustainability documents for projects, increasing sustainability initiatives for Schluter products and communicating information on product sustainability topics and product installation by generating articles for industry publications in the U.S. and Canada.

SW: You are very involved in associations such as Tile Council of North America (TCNA), the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) and the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF). What are some things you hope to accomplish by contributing your time and expertise to these groups?

KP: By being heavily involved in industry associations, such as TCNA, NTCA and CTEF, I hope to continue forging relationships with others in the tile industry, increase partnerships and collaboration and amplify my involvement in creating and updating industry standards that are relevant and imperative to have available to those who would benefit most by having them. 

SW: You were named a Coverings 2024 Rock Star. What does it mean to you being recognized as a young emerging leader in the industry?

KP: I was completely shocked when I saw that I was nominated for the award, let alone a recipient! I cried tears of joy and excitement, and I realized that my hard work was noticed and appreciated. My boss is one of my biggest supporters, and for him to recognize me for this award filled me with the utmost gratitude. I am extremely passionate about this industry and I’m fortunate enough to have a huge support system at my side who lifts me up and helps me gain the adequate knowledge to surpass my goals and provide me with the tools to succeed.

SW: Being a young industry leader, what are some goals you hope to achieve during your career?

KP: I used to have a strong fear of public speaking; however, since I’ve given a few small presentations in my current position, my fear has slightly diminished. One of my goals for 2025 is to present sustainability topics in a larger capacity at a trade show. Another goal is to continue to extend my reach in the industry by collaborating with new industry members and affiliations and increase my knowledge of relevant topics by becoming more involved with industry societies, such as ASTM International, and finally expand my LEED credentials by becoming a LEED Green Associate and eventually LEED Accredited Professional in Building Design and Construction.

SW: What is something that people might not know about you?

KP: After failing out during my second semester in community college due to pure negligence on my part, I straightened myself out and was eventually accepted into a university college in my hometown, obtained my Bachelor of Arts degree, made the Dean’s List and was on the front page of our local newspaper the day after graduation.

SW: When you are not working, how do you like to spend your free time?

KP: Staying active with daily workouts, quality time with my husband and two young daughters, golfing, camping during the summer months, attending concerts, sporting events, and summer drink and music festivals.

SW: Is there anything else you would like to share?

KP: My husband, Dan, is originally from Canada and moved over to the U.S. as a permanent resident after we had our youngest daughter, who is now nine. He’s one of my biggest fans, and I appreciate his support when it comes to all facets of my job, especially when I am away on business travel. He has never hesitated with taking the reins and managing the household in my absence because he sees my drive and understands my passion for the industry.