Ozarks Profile - Web Freeman

The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, located at 202 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy., represents more than 2,000 members, according to SBJ's "Area Chambers of Commerce" list, published in 2001.

Tell us about your job.

"As communications coordinator, I'm involved with virtually every project of the chamber," Freeman said, including event planning and management, multimedia and video production, graphic design and desktop publishing. He also directs the production of the chamber's Relocation and Community Guide, and handles media relations. In addition, Freeman maintains the chamber's Web site, www.springfieldchamber. com, which he's now redesigning for a debut scheduled in March.

What led you to your present job?

"I started working part-time in the city's Public Information Office in 1997 while I was in graduate school working toward an MA in writing. This opportunity became available, and I've been at the chamber since May of 2000," Freeman said.

In what ways is technology a key part of your work?

"Technology drives everything I do. Of course, designing and managing a Web site requires me to be deeply involved and knowledgeable about today's technology," Freeman said." I strive to make technology work for me instead of me working for technology."

What are some of your job-related challenges?

"As a department, and as an organization as a whole, we are always striving to communicate our message more effectively. We always want to do more than dust off last year's project. And, like most, the list gets longer, but the days don't," he said.

Tell us about your family/personal life.

Freeman and his wife, Adina, have been in Springfield for 15 years. "We have a six-month-old daughter, Isabella, who rules the roost," he said.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

"Since the baby was born, napping has become my number one pastime. I also enjoy fishing, tennis and cooking."

by Maria Hoover