2007 40 Under 40 Honoree: Olivia L. Hough

Olivia L. Hough is an associate planner and brownfields coordinator for the city of Springfield’s Department of Planning and Development.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, brownfields are polluted or contaminated property. Hough said she works with environmental consultants, the EPA, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, property owners, Realtors and other city departments to assess, clean up and redevelop brownfields in Springfield and the Jordan Valley Park area.

Her future goals will keep her rooted in the area and doing what she loves.

“I feel like I have found my calling in the field of planning, and ideally I see myself advancing my career as a city planner here in Springfield,” Hough said.

“A sense of commitment is so important in local government because five years from now, we will still be working on many of the projects that we are right now. In the future, I see myself working at a higher level while still learning new things, looking for ways to do things better and motivating myself and others to achieve new goals.”

This focus and self-motivation comes from advice she received from her boss, who told her to work for the job she wants, not the job she has.

“My current boss, Mary Lilly Smith, passed this advice along to me and it makes so much sense,” Hough said. “When you take on new responsibilities and become knowledgeable in the things that interest you, you become a natural fit for the job of your dreams.”

In addition to her job, Hough is grateful for her family and friends.

“My boyfriend, Ron Walker, and I live in a loft on Commercial Street and share so many interests and have a fantastic relationship,” she said. “My relationship with him and my immediate family is what I am most thankful for.”

Stats

Position: Associate City Planner, City of Springfield

Age: 29

Favorite professional sports team: St. Louis Cardinals

A quote to live by: “Just do the right thing.” – former city Planning Director Fred May

Information accurate at the time of the honor.[[In-content Ad]]