It’s David Wilderotter’s turn in the Caryl Communications’ limelight. This new-ish regular feature of ours continues as a fun avenue for readers to get to know a little more about our team members, from the highlights of their workweek, to impressive talents and more. Spoiler alert: congrats are in order for David (read on for all the details)!
What drew you to the PR field?
The writing and creativity aspects of PR really drew me in initially. At Monmouth University, I majored in Communications with a concentration in Media Studies and Production. I took an Intro to PR class in my junior year and was immediately hooked; the professor encouraged me to consider the field, as well. I added more PR-focused classes to my schedule at Monmouth, giving me a clearer picture of what I wanted to do in my career. And during my job search, it was the PR job opportunities that kept my attention, including the one for a position at Caryl. The rest is history as they say.
That leads us to our next question. How long have you been at CCI?
Just over three and a half years. I joined as an Account Coordinator in December 2022, was promoted to Senior Account Coordinator and then Account Supervisor over the years. Most recently, I was promoted to Account Manager.
(Note from team: Well-deserved, David – our congrats!)
What’s the highlight of your workweek?
Pitching stories successfully is a highlight for me. I am not a super competitive person by nature, although there is nothing like getting a “triple win” result – win for the client, win for media and win for us, too. A favorite example of a truly meaningful win was when we secured broadcast coverage at 6ABC, a major TV station in Philadelphia, for one of our clients, a senior living community. A 94-year-old resident at the community was an avid traveler and had been to every continent except Antarctica. Through a partnership with a virtual reality company, the community created the opportunity for her to “travel” to Antarctica, which turned into a touching segment that aired exclusively on 6ABC. Caryl Communications earned a PRSA NJ award as well as a national PRSA Bronze Anvil award for the piece! Another highlight has been taking on increased responsibility during my career trajectory here; I am thankful for that opportunity and really enjoy working for Sandy.
What is one of your favorite books?
Lord of the Flies by William Golding is a favorite of mine. It was an assigned reading in high school, and the story stuck with me, feeling topical then and now. Also, my girlfriend, Katie, writes mystery novels, and I am one of her first draft readers and biggest fans; I also help with copyediting. She is in the process of getting her third novel published – in addition to her day job as an attorney (proud boyfriend moment for sure).
What’s your ideal way to spend a Saturday?
Relaxing and singing top my Saturday to-do list. During the warm weather days, I try to spend as much time outside as possible with Katie and our dog, Coda. We take long walks and have friends over to enjoy our backyard. Saturdays are often rehearsal days, too. I got together last November with three others to form a barbershop quartet group named “The Road Less Traveled” and have been loving it. We recently performed at the Warren County Farmer’s Fair and sang at a birthday party for a 99-year-old man, who joined us for a song. It was incredible. We also participate in competitions.
You’ve just won the lottery? Where would you travel – anywhere in the world – and why? (Caveat: you have to come back to CCI!)
Without a doubt, I would go someplace warm and sunny. Jamaica or Southern Italy are some of my first choices. Swimming and relaxing by water – whether it is the ocean or pool – is perfection for me.