At PSM, we value people. As management consultants, we interact with people all day, every day. We value each interaction, whether it’s with a client, student, or employee. So much of our website is dedicated to promoting our services that we thought it would be only fitting to showcase our most important resource–our people!

Our employees are very important to us, and we are honored to have the opportunity to work with such talented individuals. In this installment of our Employee Spotlight, we spoke with Rebecca Olson, a Technical Writing Consultant supporting one of our major clients. Read on to learn more about Rebecca’s experiences as a procedure writer!

Can you tell us a little bit about your professional background?

I started off life planning to be a commercial airline pilot, but life has a way of derailing even the best-laid plans and taking you where you’re needed. After a year of flight school, where I obtained my private pilot license, I enlisted in the Navy. I spent six years in the Navy as an Electronics Technician and Reactor Operator. My first job out of the military was as an electrical procedure writer for Exelon Corporation. I spent seven years in the nuclear industry in various roles, always somehow involved in procedures, policies, and processes. After taking a year off to travel the world, I found PSM in 2017. I’ve been here ever since!

What do you enjoy most about the work that you do?

My favorite part of the job is when I get to take a technical manual and convert it to a user-friendly procedure. Pulling out actionable content is like a game, and when I’m finished, it’s incredibly satisfying knowing my work has the potential to save lives.

What have been some of your biggest accomplishments in your career?

There have been a few notable ones:

  1. Finishing my qualification as a reactor operator in the military.
  2. Completing two master’s degrees.
  3. Landing that first job outside the Navy that made me realize my love for technical writing.
  4. Finding myself at PSM.
What drew you to PSM?

Being a technical writer really is my dream job. People laugh every time I say that, but I’m also the type of person who enjoys writing resumes for my friends and family for free. The thing that drew me in was the work from home aspect and the fact that I didn’t have to supervise anyone (haha).

What do you enjoy about working for PSM?

Everything! I really enjoy the flexibility of working from home and the flexibility of the schedule and working location. I can work from pretty much anywhere. I love the fact that PSM is a small business making a huge impact, and I love the family feel we have.

What advice would you give to someone starting in a new career?

Learn everything you possibly can as quickly as you can. Put in the extra effort and the extra hours as needed. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or clarification.

What are some of your hobbies outside of work?

I enjoy reading, going to the beach, and trying new local restaurants.

Where has been one of your favorite places to live?

It’s a tie between Port St. Lucie, FL, and Charleston, SC. I like the slow pace of my current Florida town, but I really enjoyed Charleston’s rich history and culture.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you find yourself?

Prague, Czech Republic. I spent a month in Prague teaching English to Czech and Slovak students. There is something for everyone in Prague, and it truly is the city that never sleeps. You can also take an hour ride on the train, and you’re in the countryside exploring castles.

In the past five years, what’s the most important thing you have learned?

That time goes by way too fast, and that life can take some serious turns. Just think if five years ago someone asked you, “where do you see yourself in 5 years?” Would you be right? I wouldn’t be.

FAST FACTS: What is your:
  • Favorite movie?: Second Hand Lions
  • Favorite food?: Right now – Indian food!
  • Favorite music genre/artist?: I am one of those strange folks that don’t enjoy music. I don’t even listen to the radio in my car.
  • Favorite vacation spot?: Anywhere in the mountains!

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