Q. In your profession, what excites you the most?
Being a mother. My journey as a working mother serves as a testament to the idea that embracing various aspects of life can lead to personal and professional enrichment. I not only lead a team professionally but feel that I also lead my daughter to become whatever she might want out of life. A strong woman doesn’t have to only be one thing. Women have a valuable perspective on navigating the complexities of career and family life. The pandemic has forced me to reassess priorities and find innovative ways to balance professional and personal responsibilities. When women realize they can integrate their leadership skills into motherhood, they see the powerful integration. Being a leader doesn’t mean sacrificing your role as a mother. This is an important message, especially for younger women who might be navigating these choices.
Q. How do you continue to learn and expand your knowledge?
I have a strong commitment to continuous learning and professional development. I stay immersed in my industry through magazines, social feeds, webinars and networking events. I also believe a diverse network of connections can be incredibly valuable in various aspects of life, both personally and professionally. Throughout my different careers, I’ve made lasting connections with people who not only act as a sounding board but also offer a wealth of knowledge. I’m pursuing a Kitchen and Bath Remodeler certification to demonstrate further my dedication to being aligned with industry standards.
Q. What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your career and how did you overcome them?
In a male-dominated realm like the construction field, I’ve embraced the role of a project manager with a determination to lead and succeed. Gaining respect hasn’t come easy; it has been earned through competence, diligence and a commitment to excellence. In a profession where women are underrepresented, my journey has been about proving that leadership knows no gender. Through resilience and results, I’ve earned the respect necessary for my plans to be followed. When women come together to support and uplift one another, an unstoppable force is unleashed. Overcoming societal norms has given me the confidence to offer the full customer service experience that’s not widely seen. My husband, Andrew, and I integrate a touch of balanced magic into our projects, creating possibilities for our clients beyond what they first may have imagined.
Q. Have you ever faced challenges because of your gender? If so, how did you address them?
During the early days of my career, I faced unique challenges as a woman working in the men’s clothing industry. In my subsequent 11-year corporate career, being female was always at the forefront. Gender bias often leads to unequal opportunities in terms of promotions, salary or exposure to high-profile projects. Despite these challenges, I broke through barriers and made significant contributions to each industry. I had to be assertive in seeking equal opportunities and recognition for my diverse skills.