Brenda Brown
Brenda Brown is a seasoned Maintenance Supervisor III at Lucas County Commissioners, bringing over 35 years of experience in facilities management, electrical systems, and mechanical operations. Her career spans diverse industries including public facilities, higher education, healthcare, manufacturing, railroads, and automotive services. Brenda’s expertise encompasses the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and mechanical systems, alongside project management and operational process improvements. She has consistently demonstrated a commitment to safety, efficiency, and reliability across all the facilities she manages.
Beginning her career as a Journeyman Inside Wireman, Brenda quickly established herself in the male-dominated trades by showcasing competence, dedication, and problem-solving skills. She later advanced to roles such as Plant Operator, Locomotive Electrician, and Maintenance Worker III, building a deep technical foundation that underpins her supervisory leadership today. Brenda holds three Stationary Engineer Licenses, a Six Sigma Green Belt, and numerous certifications in operations management and LEAN principles, reflecting her dedication to continuous learning and operational excellence.
Outside of her professional life, Brenda draws inspiration from her early experiences growing up on a farm, where hard work, responsibility, and perseverance were integral values. She approaches every project with the same principles, ensuring that the environments she oversees are safe, functional, and efficient for all who rely on them. Her career stands as a testament to the value of technical mastery, lifelong learning, and leading by example in facilities management and engineering.
• Journeyman Electrician Card (Local 8 IBEW)
• Three Stationary Engineer Licenses
• Six Sigma Green Belt
• National Institute of Power Engineers – Certification, Stationary Engineer Licenses
• Owens Community College – Certification, Operations Management; Six Sigma Green Belt
• Owens Community College – Introduction to LEAN Principles
• Sun Oil – Class Stationary Engineer Operation
• International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW)
• National Institute of Power Engineers
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
If I were to give advice to anyone entering maintenance or facilities management, it would be this: learn the equipment and understand how systems work. There is no substitute for hands-on knowledge. Titles may come and go, but the ability to troubleshoot and fix what’s broken earns trust every time. I’ve always believed that the best leaders work alongside their teams, not above them. If sharing my story helps another woman see a place for herself in a field where she might feel unwelcome, then that recognition serves a purpose far beyond my own name—it makes the work meaningful.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Women in technical and facilities roles often don’t receive recognition for simply doing their jobs well. Working in a male-dominated field, I quickly learned that respect isn’t given—it’s earned through competence, dedication, and consistent performance. While the work itself is rewarding, the challenge has been repeatedly proving my place in the field and overcoming biases. Another challenge arises when organizations prioritize budget cuts over safety. In those situations, I have had to advocate for the proper maintenance of facilities, ensuring the safety of all employees and visitors, even when it meant pushing back against resistance.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Hard work and determination have always been central to my approach. Entering a male-dominated field, I relied on persistence and competence to earn the trust of my colleagues and advance into leadership roles. Outside of work, I focus on simple, creative activities that bring balance to my life. I enjoy spending time in nature, photography, and woodworking, crafting items like cutting boards and wooden owls. It’s not about selling anything—it’s about creating with my hands and finding satisfaction in the process. After years of managing complex systems, this quiet focus keeps me grounded and centered.
Locations
Lucas County Commissioners
Oak Harbor, OH 43449