OLCDC was founded on being a real estate developer for affordable housing. Over the years, we've had several people assist us with this long-term endeavor, and now, we welcome Eric Strickland as our Director of Real Estate. We've asked Eric some fun facts about himself so that you can get to know him a little better. What school did you graduate from?I graduated from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology with a degree in Civil Engineering. Why did you choose your degree track?I enjoyed building and designing when I was younger and decided to pursue engineering degree after high school.Where are you originally from?I am a native of LaPorte, Indiana.What’s something that has surprised you about your chosen career path? I was originally a structural engineer, inspecting high bridges and historic steel bridges by repelling and high rope climbing. These are the very high bridges that cross the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers in the Midwest. I was essentially a professional rock climber for two years.Who inspires you and why?I was raised in a family owned small business, so I have always been inspired by my grandparents and parents who ran the business.What’s the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever received?The best piece of professional advice I've received is, "Never be afraid to try something new."What’s your favorite hobby and why?Currently, I am restoring an old truck and enjoy working with my hands while learning new skills such as welding.Who would you most like to switch places with for a day (could be anyone — a celebrity or even an animal!) and why?I would actually switch places with my cousin, who is a naval flight officer and a fighter pilot.
