Next Gen All Star: Laura Bogdanski

By Natalie Forster, Editorial Director, Nicole Krawcke

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Laura Bogdanski

AGE: 38

COMPANY: PLATSKY CO.

TITLE: OPERATIONS DEPARTMENT

How long have you been in the PHCP-PVF industry?

I have been in the industry for 18 years.

What drew you into the industry?

I was pursuing my business degree and sought to gain experience in an office setting. Through a family connection within the industry, I was presented with an opportunity that I enthusiastically embraced, and I have remained in this role ever since.

What is the most rewarding aspect of working in the industry?

One of the most gratifying aspects of my work are the connections I establish and the sense of fulfillment I experience upon successfully accomplishing important tasks.

What motivates you every day?

The driving force that fuels my daily motivation is the challenge that comes with my work.

What is one thing you wish more people knew/understood about the PHCP-PVF industry?

One aspect I wish more individuals were aware of regarding the industry is its extensive scope. Additionally, for individuals to recognize the abundant opportunities that exists within the industry. It offers many different avenues for professional growth and development, extending beyond the conventional perceptions.

What has been your proudest moment in your career so far?

One of the most significant milestones in my career thus far is the personal growth I have experienced over the years. Starting as a part-time helper with limited knowledge of the industry, I have steadily progressed to my current role in operations, where I possess a strong sense of confidence in my industry expertise and skills. This journey of continuous learning and development fill me with immense pride.

What is one thing most people don’t know about you?

The one thing most people don’t know about me is that I had multiple of an organ.

“Operations is often a thankless job. Typically someone in operations is invisible unless they make a mistake and then people point fingers at the person who made the error. Yet, somehow Laura has set herself apart and is consistently relied upon by her coworkers for being a problem solver. Aside from loading in manufacturer price files, issuing credits, updating customer pricing, and tracking manufacturer commissions, Laura also looks out for our organization when it would be easy to put her head down and complete the task in front of her. If a manufacturer bills us at the wrong price, she picks it up. If a customer deducts a bill incorrectly, she points it out. If someone claims they were shorted an item on a delivery, she researches the order and proves out whether or not there was an error. If we set up pricing at levels that are not profitable, she makes sure we correct it before it is too late. Somehow, Laura finds ways to stand out for all the right reasons. Platsky Company is a better company because of her efforts.”

— Gregory Aranoff, Principal, Platsky Co.

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Natalie Forster is the director of communications for the American Supply Association (ASA), where she leads the association's public and media relations strategy, social media efforts, and member-focused online and print communications. Prior to joining ASA, she was the Editorial Director of Plumbing & Mechanical and Supply House Times. Before that, she served as an editor and digital content director for Southern Trade Publications, a publishing company focused on the PHCP trades and real estate industries. Natalie holds a bachelor's degree in communication studies from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

Nicole Krawcke is the former Chief Editor of Plumbing & Mechanical. She joined BNP Media in 2014 and served as Web Editor and Business Management Editor of The ACHR NEWS. Prior to joining BNP, she worked at Patch.com, a hyper-local news platform focused on community journalism. She has 10 plus years of writing and editing experience and holds a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Michigan State University.