Her Story
About Ayesha
I've been in the environmental field for 33 plus years, and last year I moved over as a laboratory director for the chemical testing laboratory. The company wanted to start a drinking water lab, so I helped set up the drinking water testing for the laboratory and took on the position of director. In my role, I oversee all laboratory operations, handle purchases, maintain client relationships, and work on developing new customers to build the business and get our revenue up. At the same time, I manage the staff and work on improving laboratory operations overall by making things more efficient, digitizing processes, and moving things over to be more electronic. I also work on improving the methods they've been using to more current, updated approaches. I guide our environmental division, both the laboratory and the consulting portion of it. I head out to meet clients for appreciation events for all the work they've given us over the years. I work with a wide range of clients including water districts, state agencies, independent homeowners reaching out for water testing, chemical industries, machine shops, plating facilities, and other industrial facilities - basically anyone with chemical testing needs. One of my proudest achievements is adding new services to the business that we didn't have before. Drinking water testing is a big thing now, with agencies changing regulations and becoming more stringent with drinking water standards. Recently, I was able to acquire a project for drinking water testing for all major stadiums for the upcoming World Cup in June. I enjoy the sales aspect of my work because it impacts the bottom line for the company.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Ayesha
01What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
I've received quite a bit of advice from a lot of people over the years. When I first started working, I had a boss who told me, 'Aisha, whatever you do is great, it's working out, don't change what you do, you're doing great.' That was really encouraging. But one of the best pieces of advice I got was from my uncle. He said to arrive at work 5 minutes early and stay 5 minutes late. I actually followed that advice earlier in my career, and I would work on a lot of things for myself and for work. I think ultimately it did help - just not running away after 8 hours, but taking that extra time to improve myself and also the company in general. That was really good advice.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell young women to work hard and be dedicated to what you believe in. Be determined and believe in yourself. You can do whatever you set your mind to. Don't assume you know it all - keep at it, and you will move up the stairs. You will get to where you want to go.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I feel that there are several labs competing in the field, so the challenge is being competitive in regards to pricing and turnaround time. The challenge is managing the staff and trying to get more work, sometimes by lowering the price. You have to make sure all the staff is working efficiently to be very competitive. It's very challenging because you're doing everything at the same time.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
In my work, I think the most valuable thing is the people I work with. Having everyone treat each other very professionally is important. Having good relationships is important. I appreciate that people show respect and professionalism. I don't think showing anger or any unprofessional behavior towards anyone is acceptable, regardless of what disagreements there might be. I think it's important to still be very professional and courteous.
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