Age: 46
Hometown: New Hampshire
What do you do and how did you get into that field?
My career background/training started with Large Animal Science, Book-keeping, Business Management, Property Management and Real Estate for a living. For fun, I am NH Certified EMT Bike Patroller at Highland Mountain Bike Park and a Senior Outdoor Emergency Care Patroller and an Instructor/Trainer for the National Ski Patrol with Ragged Mountain Ski Area…recently taking on the role of Northern Section Chief in The New Hampshire Region.
Overall, I would not say any of these roles were goals of mine as a kiddo growing up or even a young adult trying to make my way and later raise a family. Events happen in life and doors open. My best piece of advice is keep an eye on those doors, and step through a few every once in a while.
What are the benefits of being a woman and doing the same jobs as men, in your field and why?
I have never compared myself and abilities to others in the same fields as myself…especially in the Emergency Medical Services. I was raised by a mother who told me I can do (career wise ) whatever I so chose to do and not let anyone tell me anything differently. Quite frankly, nobody would want to be on the receiving end of what I may say to someone who would tell me differently. I always have felt physically and mentally as capable as any of my teammates, male or female. I would never expect to get differential treatment or give it based on my gender or stature.
Has mentorship played a role in your career? If so, what did you take away from it?
Confidence is nurtured like a flower, feed it! Yes, mentors are everywhere…find one and never stop learning from them. Positive reinforcement! Delete the sap-sucking confidence killers in your circle.
Who inspires you? And why?
I am inspired most by my progeny…two sons ages 22 and 18. In my eyes they are Kings.
What is the best advice you have ever been given?
The best advice was given to me by my father, “You’ll always work with someone you don’t ‘like’, get over it and figure out how to move forward”.