What do Dad Jokes, thorns, and a good margarita have to do with MELE Project Controls Supervisor Courtney M.? Read this installment of MELE’s Five Questions to find out.
What is your role at MELE and what’s your favorite part about working here?
I currently serve as a Project Controls Supervisor at MELE Associates, where I oversee and support a team of project coordinators to ensure effective contract management and financial compliance. My favorite part about working at MELE is coordinating and implementing meaningful improvements within the Project Controls team—creating processes that make our work more efficient while fostering a collaborative environment. I also take great pride in mentoring others and helping build a stronger, more connected team where everyone feels supported, fulfilled, and set up for success in their roles.
Tell us a little bit about the role of Project Controls at MELE. Why is this department critical to the success of this organization?
Project Controls plays a vital role at MELE by ensuring that every contract runs efficiently, compliantly, and with a clear focus on customer satisfaction. While we may represent just one portion of the organization, our work is truly at the heart of MELE’s success. We are responsible for making sure all deliverables are met accurately and on time, budgets are maintained, and processes remain streamlined across contracts. By doing so, we uphold the “MELE Way”—delivering exceptional service, accountability, and quality to both our internal teams and external clients.
What do you and your team do as a group to blow off steam, lighten the load, and remain on point?
As a team, we really value connection and balance. We enjoy our lighthearted side conversations in the office and regularly incorporate humor—especially our famous “dad jokes”—to keep things fun and positive. Team building is also a big part of what we do; it helps strengthen trust and collaboration. To stay aligned, we hold weekly meetings where we share our “buds, roses, and thorns,” giving everyone space to reflect on wins, challenges, and areas for growth. These open discussions, along with our regular tag-ups, keep us grounded, focused, and united as a team.
What do you like to do when have some free time?
In my free time, I love spending quality time with my family and finding creative ways to grow and manage my finances. Doing activities with my son is always a pleasure and one of my favorite ways to spend the day. If I have the time and a little spare cash, I love to shop—clothes are definitely my weakness! I also enjoy treating myself to a good concert or a spontaneous weekend getaway—and I’ll never pass up a good nap when I get the chance. It’s my way of recharging, having fun, and staying inspired outside of work.
What is your dream travel scenario and why?
My dream travel scenario would be one of those rare trips where everything just goes perfectly. I’d get an unexpected upgrade to first class, then somehow end up in a luxury suite—for no reason other than good luck! Along the way, I’d meet an inspiring group of people who aren’t just there to have fun, but who share experiences or lessons that I can take away from the trip. Of course, it wouldn’t be complete without a good margarita in hand, sunshine, and water nearby. Most importantly, I’d love to come home actually feeling refreshed—with no travel hiccups and maybe even a little money left over!
