Chelsea Hethcoat

I attribute my success to resilience, determination, and the support I’ve received along the way. Growing up, I faced challenges that could have held me back, but through perseverance and programs like Job Corps, I was able to find a path forward. As a single mother, I worked harder than most, and those experiences taught me the value of focus, persistence, and developing practical skills that truly make a difference. My career journey began in healthcare, but I eventually discovered a passion for accounting, sales and client relations. Today, I leverage tools like Excel not just to manage numbers, but to improve processes and support my colleagues. Each accomplishment, whether large or small, reflects a commitment to learning, adapting, and excelling through hard work. I take pride in building a career founded on skill and dedication, thriving even in competitive environments alongside those with more formal education. Looking back, I see that resilience, determination, and heart have been the constants shaping both my career and character. Every challenge has been an opportunity to grow, and I hope that sharing my journey inspires others to embrace their own paths—no matter how unconventional or challenging they may appear.

The best career advice I’ve ever received comes from mentors and leaders who challenge you while believing in your potential. I owe much of my professional growth to people who pushed me out of my comfort zone and encouraged me to trust in myself. My previous supervisors have been especially pivotal in my journey. At a time when I struggled with confidence and often engaged in negative self-talk, they placed me in situations that helped me build confidence, stop self-deprecating, and truly develop my own sense of self. Their guidance taught me the power of encouragement, challenge, and believing in one’s own abilities.

The advice I would give to young women entering my industry is to take ownership of your mistakes rather than deflecting them. Doing so not only builds trust but also strengthens team morale and confidence. Early in my career, I had to learn the importance of a strong work ethic and accountability. Being dependable—following through on your commitments and demonstrating that others can rely on you—is essential. By consistently showing integrity and dedication, you establish yourself as a professional who contributes meaningfully and earns the respect of colleagues.

One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is navigating a tough market. Budget constraints have made sales more competitive, and customers are increasingly selective. At the same time, this presents an opportunity to differentiate yourself by being confident, adaptable, and creative in meeting client needs. Success today requires not just understanding the numbers, but also anticipating challenges and finding innovative ways to deliver value.

The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are confidence, accountability, and teamwork. I believe that owning mistakes rather than deflecting them not only builds trust but also strengthens morale and fosters growth for everyone. For me, success isn’t measured solely by career achievements—it’s also about giving back. I donate monthly to breast cancer research in honor of a family member, a cause that is deeply meaningful to me. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling with my children and cooking Asian-inspired meals, which allow me to stay connected to family and nurture my creativity.