CIM Graduate
Erica Johnson
School: New Jersey Institute of Technology
Graduation Date: Class 2015
Employer: Sika Corporation
“My advice for current students would be do as much as you can within the industry while you have the opportunity. Join the student chapters of ACI, ICRI, and the various young professional groups the CIM program has to offer. Being involved in those organizations will give you so many skills that will translate much further than you could ever expect.”
Where are you working and what is your position and responsibilities?
I am the online sales manager at Sika Corporation located in Lyndhurst, NJ. I have been in this role for more than two years but have been with Sika Corporation for the last seven years working in various roles. My current job responsibilities include managing Sika’s pure online sales accounts and growing this business across the company. This role has challenged me in the best ways. It has required me to further build out many of the business skills I learned originally in my time at NJIT in the CIM program.
Why did you choose this position and this company?
The opportunity to become Sika’s online sales manager was not something I originally envisioned for myself, yet I am beyond grateful that it is where my career has taken me so far. If you had asked me where I saw myself 5+ years following my time at NJIT, I would not have imagined my answer would be “in the eCommerce/online sales world.” But I am so thankful to have been given the opportunity to take on this challenge and make this job my own. And specifically, if you were to ask me ‘Why Sika?’ its two driving reasons: the people and the opportunities. I have been so privileged to work with and learn from some truly incredible professionals and teams during my time here. Additionally, I have been offered various opportunities to grow and develop myself within the company while having a direct impact on Sika Corporation’s success.
How has the CIM program prepared you for your current job responsibilities?
CIM prepared me for my current role in many ways. It requires a variety of skills and CIM gave a foundation in many of them. From the required business minor courses to support a well-rounded understanding of business, to the soft skills such as communication and the ability to present ideas effectively, CIM prepared me for the real world.
Why did you choose the CIM program?
I chose the CIM program originally with the thought of rounding out my architectural education with a hands-on specialty in construction materials. Little did I know the CIM program would be the driving force in my career. One of the most unexpected things looking back about the CIM program is and was the active industry involvement and passion of the supporting staff, who truly care about student success.
What advice would you give to current
CIM students?
My advice for current students would be do as much as you can within the industry while you have the opportunity. Join the student chapters of ACI, ICRI, and the various young
professional groups the CIM program has to offer. Being involved in those organizations will give you so many skills that will translate much further than you could ever expect.