Wendy Wu

Meet Wendy Wu – Technical Business Analyst and this month’s Hard Hat Hang Up.

How did you get into the construction industry?

Upon graduating, I wasn’t entirely sure which industry I wanted to work in. What mattered most to me was not the industry itself, but the company I worked for and the impact I could give to society. While I am still new to the construction industry, I’ve been learning a lot and continue to do so. What really struck me as I became more involved is how essential the construction industry is to people’s everyday lives. It’s not just about building structures. It’s about providing shelter, creating jobs, and contributing to the development of communities. I am excited to play a role in driving the success of projects by focusing on key areas such as resource management, risk analysis, and many more.

What do you enjoy most about being a Business Analyst?

What I enjoy the most about being a Business Analyst is the opportunity to solve complex problems and add value to the company. Each project is different, so I’m always learning and finding ways to improve decision-making processes. I love understanding different perspectives, identifying areas for improvement, and coming up with solutions that really make a difference. I also enjoy the analytical challenge and collaborating closely with different teams.

What skills are essential for becoming a successful business analyst?

Strong communication, interpersonal, analytical, and teamwork skills are essential. You need to connect with a variety of people—whether it’s business leaders or team members—to really understand what they need. Once you have a clear picture, you must translate those needs into actionable plans. It’s important to explain complex ideas in a way that’s easy for everyone to understand. Analytical skills are also crucial for interpreting data, identifying trends, and turning those insights into tangible solutions. Being able to collaborate with people from different teams and backgrounds ensures everyone is aligned. Finally, adaptability and a willingness to continuously learn are vital, especially in an industry where technology is constantly evolving.

What advice would you share with students nearing graduation who want to join the workforce?

My advice would be to focus on building both your technical skills and soft skills. Take the time to learn about the industry you’re interested in and always keep growing your knowledge. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek advice from others along the way. It’s important to be patient and persistent. Getting your foot in the door can take time but if you stay focused, opportunities will open up. Also, don’t underestimate the power of networking and practicing your interview skills. Believe in your abilities and stay open to learning as much as you can.

You recently joined the Chesapeake team, what do you like most about working at Chesapeake so far?

As a new graduate starting my first corporate job, I was initially filled with a lot of nervousness and anxiety. However, those feelings quickly faded after just a couple weeks at Chesapeake. Everyone has been incredibly welcoming and supportive, always eager to help whenever I have questions or need guidance. The dedication everyone shows to their work motivates me to continue learning and growing, both personally and professionally. What I appreciate most is the warm, family-like atmosphere here.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?

Outside of work, I love spending time with friends and family whenever I can. I enjoy exploring new places and trying different foods. If I’m not outside, I’m lying in bed watching shows or engaging in some artistic activities.