Cherie Andrew’s Career Story
This series features the professional journeys of a wide range of individuals across Canada’s real estate development industry. Often, these stories highlight how rewarding careers in real estate development are the result of following your interests, fostering personal and professional networks, and keeping an open mind about what a career in real estate development might be.
Meet Cherie Andrew – Facilities and Project Lead – ConocoPhillips.
How did you get started in your career?
I never envisioned a career in commercial real estate, facilities management, and project management when I first moved to Calgary. My plan was to pursue a career in custom home design, which led me to enroll in the Architectural Technologies program at SAIT. During the summer between my first and second years, I took a summer student position with Canadian Pacific Railway in Gulf Canada Square, updating floor plans and working on drawings. It was an opportunity that exposed me to a side of the industry I had never considered before. Before I graduated, CP offered me a full-time position, and that was the start of my career in the commercial sector.
Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of roles, including CAD Technician, Facilities Manager, Leasing Manager, and Project Manager. Each role provided new challenges, new perspectives, and valuable experiences that helped shape my career. Today, I work in Facilities and Project Management with the Real Estate and Facilities team at ConocoPhillips, where I continue to build on the knowledge and skills I have developed throughout my journey.
What inspired you to pursue this career path?
The greatest inspiration throughout my career has been the people I have met along the way. I have always enjoyed learning, being part of a team, and contributing to something larger than myself. The opportunities to collaborate with talented people, solve problems, and deliver meaningful results have motivated me to continue developing and expanding my career.
Have you considered a career switch within or outside of the broader real estate industry?
Like many professionals, I have experienced moments when I questioned my path. About four years ago, our team went through some significant changes that made me reflect on what I was doing and where I wanted my career to go. During that time, I leaned on someone I deeply respected as a mentor. Their guidance encouraged me to focus on my own development rather than the uncertainty around me. I made a conscious decision to expand my professional network and position myself for future opportunities.
That decision led me to become more involved in CREW Calgary and the broader commercial real estate community. Building new relationships and connecting with industry professionals helped me regain confidence and brought fresh perspectives to my career. It reminded me of the value of investing in yourself and the power of a strong professional network. Ultimately, it helped me find my way back to a place where my work felt both positive and challenging again.
What is one project or achievement you are most proud of?
When I think about the achievements I am most proud of, it is difficult to point to a single project. I have been involved in projects of all sizes and levels of impact throughout my career. What stands out most to me is the trust that sponsors and leaders have placed in me to deliver those projects successfully. That confidence and trust have always been incredibly meaningful and remain one of the accomplishments I value most.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in the field?
If there is one piece of advice I would give to someone starting their career, it would be simple: say yes to opportunities that interest you. The only way to build confidence is by doing something new. Every new experience, challenge, and opportunity helps shape who you become as a professional. My career has certainly not followed the path I originally imagined, but by remaining open to opportunities, continuing to learn, and building meaningful relationships along the way, I have found a rewarding career that continues to evolve and inspire me.
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