What was your first job and what did you learn from it?
My first job was as a network engineer for the local telephone company. I learned many things ... including how important it is to build relationships with customers and co-workers. I also realized the importance of good leadership skills ... and how great it was to work for someone whom I respected and wanted to emulate. I always want to do an excellent job ... but when I'm working for someone I admire, I want to do even more.

Who is your hero, mentor or person you most admire? Why?
Throughout my education and career, I have had the benefit of knowing a number of individuals for whom I have a great deal of admiration and respect. How I approach challenges is influenced by my parents, as well as the professors, managers and peers whom I most admire. I've closely observed and tried to emulate their leadership style, how they build relationships, their professionalism, and how they manage through a crisis.

What is your favorite book?
I have always been an avid reader so I have many favorites. "A Passion for Excellence" by Tom Peters and Nancy Austin is one book I enjoyed. The authors did a good job of recognizing the value of communication and relationship building in the workplace.

What advances in your field do you envision over the next 10 years?
The telecommunications industry is a very exciting place to be right now. There are technical, regulatory, and political challenges which radically change how we need to operate on a daily basis. It's impossible to predict where the next ten years will take us ... just as ten years ago we would not have guessed we would be where we are today. I am certain, however, that our access to information, as well as the speed at which that information is transmitted, will continue to increase. Those will be exciting times.

What do you see as the single most interesting element of your work?
The speed at which technology is advancing makes this work environment very intriguing right now.

What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishment?
I went back to school at night to get both an MBA and an MS. I successfully completed both despite a rigorous work schedule. During some quarters, I had classes scheduled every evening of the week. It was worth the effort because of the extent to which the additional education has given me a broader perspective. It was also a good experience because I have a very good understanding of how hard going to school at night can be.

What was your greatest challenge and what did you learn from it?
My greatest challenge continues to be attempting to balance work and home life. It's a difficult struggle. I have learned, however, that many co-workers face the same challenge. By supporting each other, we will all get a little closer to the balance we seek.

What strategies do you use to maintain balance in your life?
I'm still a long way from where I'd like to be. We do plan our family events very carefully, however, so that we maximize the time we have together. With a little creativity, even Saturday morning errands can be fun family activities!

What advice would you give to young women who want to enter your field?
Don't be afraid to take an assignment which would not have been your first (or perhaps even second or third) choice. For me, those have been my greatest experiences!