What attracted you to the transportation industry?
I came into it accidentally. I began my career in public accounting and worked in auditing for 14 years. My love was always helping non-profits and public sector clients. They often have challenges and I felt with my knowledge I could help them. When I left public accounting, this position was open. It was the perfect fit for me. With my accounting experience and my interest in the public sector, this position felt like the best next step in my career, and I’ve loved it since I got here.
What has been your greatest professional achievement?
Being able to help those coming up in the ranks with their careers. As I’ve gained experience to be able to share that and mentor others.
How have women made a difference in the transportation industry?
In accounting, those who assume the position of leadership add different perspectives. In the beginning, it was male-dominated and over the years, women have naturally come into it because there are more opportunities. Our culture has changed from when I was growing up, or from when I first entered the workforce (just a few short years ago, lol); most women have careers and want to be in the workforce. In transportation, it’s still male-dominated, but women are making strides and barriers to women’s career advancement are slowly eroding over time.
What was the biggest influence in your selection of a career in transportation?
It was timing and opportunity. My former boss told me about the position but it wasn’t going to be available for six months. In the meantime, I took another job where I was just miserable driving to Santa Fe every day, and then I got a call back for the job at MRCOG which was just perfect timing. The stars were aligned in my favor!
What is your favorite aspect of your job?
The people here at the MRCOG, Rio Metro Regional Transit District (RMRTD), and Workforce Community Connections of New Mexico (WCCNM). The culture is different than in the non-public sector. It’s about helping the departments accomplish their financial goals.
What lessons have you been taught from the important women in your life that you have applied to your own life?
Not letting barriers stop me from going forward with my career and work. Don’t let them be an excuse.
How have these lessons helped you succeed as a woman in transportation?
It’s about attitude-how I think and react; I’m doing what I love and being the best that I can. Things do fall into place eventually.
What natural talents do you possess that help in your chosen career?
I’m detail-oriented, so that helps with accounting, which is not what I thought I would be doing when I went to college. I also love to help others, so that helps me in this organization help others achieve their goals and objectives.
What part of your career story would you like to share with the world?
I quit college in my early 20’s and took a job at Arthur Murray Dance Studio. After 12 years there, I decided I needed more of a challenge. I went back to college, discovered I liked math and went on to get my degree in accounting. In my tweens, I taught myself to play the guitar. I picked it back up after a hiatus and played a few years as a means of relaxation and finding balance in my work. I recently stopped again, but this conversation just reminded me I need to pick it up again.
How long have you been working for the company/organization? And what positions have to you held prior to your current one?
I came in as Finance Manager 12 years ago and I’m in the same position but my title changed, and my role has changed as MRCOG’s needs have changed and expanded. Since I came on, we’ve implemented new systems and processes in accounting that have made the department more proficient.
How does what you do/what the organization does make a positive impact in the community?
MRCOG/RMRTD is vital to the mid-region of New Mexico, in transportation services with the rail and the buses, and in transportation planning. It’s exciting to be a part of the vital organization.
What do you think is needed to further attract women to the transportation workforce?
More women in leadership positions. If you see opportunities and the potential it will attract more women to the industry.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to enter this industry?
I think my advice is for any industry – make yourself vital by continuing to learn and grow. Be proactive in getting training, taking on challenging roles or assignments. Don’t be afraid to fail…just go for it!
As told to Allyne Clarke, Marketing Manager, Rio Metro Regional Transit District.
