Kira Bruun is a Project Engineer who has been with Sundt for 10 years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Construction Management from Arizona State University.
She was raised in Salt Lake City before moving to Las Vegas to become a flight attendant. Kira stayed in the position for two years until the company where she worked went out of business. She moved to Phoenix, where a family member suggested she apply at Sundt. Kira did and she got the job, starting as a Project Administrator in 2006.
She still lives in the Phoenix area and has a 4-year-old son.
What was it about Sundt that made you want to work here?
Two simple reasons: growth and support. I would not be here today if it weren’t for the support and growth opportunities Sundt provides. In my first year, I knew I wanted to be a Construction Manager. Because of the Tuition Reimbursement Program, I was able to afford college. Because of the continuous meetings with the operations manager(s) after each semester I had the support that I needed. Because of the continuous growth I’ve received since graduating, I have purpose to continue to be a Sundt Employee-Owner until I retire. I enjoy watching my peers become strong leaders and great mentors. That is very motivating to me.
How important is the company’s employee ownership model?
It helps create an environment of accountability, financial responsibility and long-term sustainability. Knowing that business decisions are being made for the greater good of the company promotes a sense of job security, which in the cyclical construction industry is priceless.
What’s the best advice you’ve received from a mentor?
You don’t need to be the typical, Type-A personality to succeed in construction. Your ability to build and maintain relationships is what creates success.
You live in Arizona. How ready are you for the hot summer temperatures?
Bring it on! Three months of hot summer days versus six months of cold winter days … I don’t mind the heat at all. And we get a bonus: Monsoons!
What’s the best movie you’ve seen recently?
I watched “Zootopia” with my son and shockingly enjoyed it. It covers some pretty tough topics and shows children how to overcome bullying, racism and defeat stereotypes by simply believing in yourself. As Judy (one of the movie characters) aptly sums up: “No matter what type of animal you are, change starts with you.”
Where is your dream trip and why?
Spain. It’s a large, culturally diverse country, has breathtaking architecture, friendly people, great food, fine wine and Mark Consuelos (from “All My Children”) is from there. Need I say more?