Ozarks Profile: Kim Buche

What is your job, and how did you become involved with Salute to Construction?

I am project coordinator for Interior Construction Concepts, a design-build firm offering architectural, interior design and general construction in Springfield. We are members of Greater Ozarks Building Systems Association, which is part of the Salute Council, as well as belonging to the Springfield Contractors Association and Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce. I really became involved with the Salute to Construction when I became the treasurer of GOBSA.

Why do you feel Salute to Construction is such an important event?

Salute serves so many important purposes. First of all, a number of local professionals volunteer their time to visit local schools to present the various opportunities in the design and construction industry as a career choice. There are so many facets to the industry, including architects, engineers, interior designers, general contractors, subcontractors and suppliers. Each of these professions have numerous positions that work together to create the buildings, parks, roads, bridges, etc., that create our community. We would like the students to realize that there are many opportunities in the construction industry.

Secondly, we try to promote a positive perception of the construction industry in general. I think a lot of people see a new construction site and just think about the traffic delays, dirty streets and the noise it causes. We would like them to appreciate the expanded hospital services; a new shopping center with a specialty store new to this area; jobs created by this new business that boosts our local economy; or smoother traffic flow that will come from this temporary inconvenience.

Third, the salute banquet is our opportunity to celebrate the industry.

What do you like best about being involved in construction?

Every day is unique, and every project is unique. I have met and worked with so many wonderful people. The owners are just as excited about the project as I am, and it couldn't happen without terrific subcontractors and suppliers. Everyone works together toward a common goal and it is so satisfying to see a completed project and a satisfied client.

How did you choose this career field?

I have always been in the construction industry. I started out as a computer programmer for an international construction company. That was more than 20 years ago. Since then I have worked for various companies that have been involved in the construction process. I love that I get to see a project from its earliest conception through schematic designs to the time the clients moves into their facility.

What are your spare-time pursuits?

If it is summer, I love going to the lake with my family. During the winter, I enjoy sewing, quilting and cross-stitching. I always enjoy traveling, especially cruises. My pet project right now is compiling all of my grandmother's recipes into a cookbook so our entire family can enjoy them it's more than 250 pages so far.

Tell us about your family.

My husband, Richard, and I have been married for nine years. We have five children between us. Our kids are: Michael, 19; Ryan, 19; Danny, 18; Danielle, 16; and Kelli, 14.