Meet Karen Allen, Senior Project Assistant & Inquisitive Learner
What drew you to Hoyle Tanner?
I was drawn to Hoyle Tanner after researching the company and experiencing its commitment to professionalism and supportive culture. I heard the “Operations Mastery” podcast interview with Matt Low and was impressed by the well thought out approach Hoyle Tanner has for staff and company growth. Throughout the application and onboarding process, I appreciated the kindness and thoroughness of the staff, who ensured I felt welcome and informed. These positive experiences during my first month, along with the team’s dedication to training and collaboration, reinforced my decision to become part of the Hoyle Tanner community.
What’s something invaluable you’ve learned here?
The importance of attention to detail in ensuring project success. The staff consistently demonstrate that every detail, no matter how small, contributes to the overall quality of our work. Team members dedicate their time to support one another, answering questions and providing guidance. Their willingness to take the time to share their expertise has improved my understanding of our processes and has allowed me to contribute meaningfully to projects.
What’s the coolest thing you are working on & why?
I worked on the Scope Sheet and project setup for the Waterbury Culvert with Kelly LaVigne, which is a large wildlife crossing. The details of the wildlife observation were really interesting, and I love that people are working hard to protect animals from our busy daily lives. Also, Kelly LaVigne is great to work with! Her patience and clear explanations were a great welcome to Hoyle Tanner. Other notable projects I liked working on were the Amoskeag Bridge Specifications package with Sean James and a template for the Load Rating Report for MassDOT with Joe Ripley.
What’s the best thing that’s happened to you recently (this week, this month, this year)?
My oldest son graduated from Northeastern University in May and recently started his first professional job, and my youngest son has found his place taking Computer Science classes in Cybersecurity at Great Bay Community College. We’ve also had fun family adventures this year from skiing at Sugarloaf, to bike riding the Seacoast Rail Trail, boogie-boarding at Sawyer’s Beach, and visiting with lots of family. Oh, and I got this great new job at Hoyle Tanner!
How many different states have you lived in?
Two. I grew up in Massachusetts and moved to New Hampshire when I graduated from UNH. Although I’ve spent so much time in Maine, I think that may also count!
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life what would it be?
Beef Goulash with egg noodles, my mom’s specialty!
What kind of pet do you have & how did you choose to name it?
We have two cats, Q and Emi. Our family was going through a James Bond phase when we got them and they are named after the characters Q and E.
What is a fun or interesting fact about your hometown?
Rye, NH was the landing place for the Transatlantic Cable that increased the speed of communications to Europe and allowed messages to be sent in both directions. https://atlantic-cable.com/CableCos/DirectUS/index.htm
What are three things still left on your bucket list.
- Seeing the Pyramids of Egypt
- Following the course of the Mississippi River from it’s source to the ocean
- Be able to speak Spanish fluently
What characteristic do you admire most in others?
The ability to express yourself spontaneously in an articulate way.
How old is the oldest item in your closet?
My volleyball uniform from high school. I can’t seem to throw it away because it represents something I had no experience with, worked especially hard at, and was successful with.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
An astronaut! When I found out how much schooling and complicated math would be involved, I focused on the subjects I really enjoyed like English and writing.
What’s one of your most ridiculous/nonsensical fears?
Mayonnaise. I don’t want to eat it, touch it, or see it, ha!
What’s your pump-up playlist or song lately?
Give me a beat I can dance to!
- Where My Girls At – ESSEL
- Higher Love – Kygo, Whitney Houston
- Call On Me – Starley, Ryan Riback
- Lighter – Galantis
- Not a Waste – Wyn Starks
- Thunder – Gabry Ponte
- Downtown – Macklemore
Words to live by? Favorite quote? Why?
“Be kinder than necessary because everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.” — J.M. Barrie
Life is full of challenges, from raising kids, navigating the loss of loved ones, to managing health and mental wellness, and the Covid shutdown. When I feel frustration rising, I try to remind myself of this quote so I can dig deep and find some patience to share.
