In her role at Procore Technologies, a cloud-based construction management software company, Alex Platt helps to strengthen the most important resource any company can have - its staff.
As Talent Project Manager, Alex supports process development, training, data analysis, and overall operations for the Talent Acquisition team. She is taking on a similar role at UCSB, serving as chair of the Department of Communication’s Fall Senior Mixer, from 1:30 - 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 14, at the SSMS Building fourth floor patio. For senior Communication majors, the event is an opportunity to obtain one-on-one guidance in job searching, resumes and career paths after college from alumni and local professionals. Fun facts about Alex: she studied abroad in Madrid, London, and South Africa and has sung and beatboxed with five different a cappella groups.
Why did you choose to study at UC Santa Barbara?
UCSB is the ideal combination of energy and tranquility, modernity and tradition. When I first started researching the school, I was blown away by the wide variety of majors and the multitude of ways to get involved on campus. While on our campus tour, I remember turning to my mom and saying, “Everyone looks so happy here!” because nearly every single person we passed had a massive smile on their face… that’s when I knew I couldn’t turn away.
Describe your job. What do you enjoy most about your work?
I’m incredibly lucky to have recently joined the team at Procore Technologies as Talent Project Manager. Prior to this, I worked for the Aspen Institute’s Henry Crown Fellowship Program where I was exposed to dozens of inspiring entrepreneurial leaders, many of whom work in the tech sphere. I was captivated by the stories they told me and knew that one day I wanted to experience that world for myself. Working for Procore is both the most challenging and the most rewarding job I’ve ever had. The work environment is fast-paced and dynamic which energizes and inspires me. The culture is one of the most amazing I’ve ever seen, holding Openness, Optimism, and Ownership as its three core values and putting employees first. I truly enjoy coming to work and learning something new every single day.
How did your major help you in your career? What advice do you have for UCSB students?
I applied to UCSB as a Business Economics major and by winter quarter freshman year had switched to Communication - not in the plan. By fall quarter sophomore year I had added Global Studies and was on track to study abroad in Spain as a junior - also not in the plan. Upon returning from Spain I applied for grad school in Global - I never intended on getting my master’s, let alone in that subject. After graduation, I worked for a nonprofit planning leadership seminars, and now I work in operations for a tech company. What I’m trying to illustrate through all of this is that your major (let alone your life) is not always linear... sometimes “the wand chooses the wizard.” My best advice is to stay flexible, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to jump at opportunities that present themselves to you.
What were some of your student life experiences at UCSB?
Of all my wonderful UCSB memories, singing with the all-female a cappella group, VocalMotion, is far and away my most beloved. This incredible group of women was everything to me, from my first audition until my last concert senior year and beyond (I still live with one of my dearest friends from the group and attend concerts when I can). Being involved in a student organization - especially one that was performance-based, taught me leadership skills, boosted my self-confidence, and showed me true friendship.
How and why do you remain involved at UCSB?
Over the years since graduation, I’ve attended dozens of UCSB affiliated events - from Alumni holiday parties to All Gaucho Reunion, and networking receptions to serving on career panels for current students. My most consistent and active UCSB involvement is through the Communication Department’s Alumni Council. The Council holds regular conference calls to advise on student professional development and alumni relations, including production of the annual Communication Career Day, Senior Mixer, and other events/activities. It means a lot to me to give back to a place that has been so influential in shaping who I’ve become and I plan to never fall out of touch.
Reasons We're Proud to be Gauchos
No. 10
I’ve been fortunate to live in and travel to many cities, both internationally and domestically and I find it amazing that whenever I run into a Gaucho, no matter where or when it is, there is an immediate connection. I’m sure everyone feels this way about their alma mater to some extent, but the Gaucho bond is distinct. UCSB is a place of warmth and acceptance; a place where you are encouraged to pursue your passions and grow as an individual but are also a part of a strong unified family. From cheering and throwing tortillas upon winning Blue-Green Rivalry games at Harder Stadium, to uniting in solidarity after the tragic 2014 Isla Vista killings, we stick together, in good times and in bad. I’m continually inspired by and proud to be a Gaucho.