Eileen T. Carlson
Eileen Carlson is a seasoned Career Coach based in Bonita Springs, Florida, bringing over four decades of experience in accounting, finance, project/program/portfolio management, organizational change management, data/information governance and executive leadership to her coaching practice. She recently launched her own career coaching business and is in the process of building her website while pursuing an ICF (international Coaching Federation) certification. With a background that spans global corporations, including leadership roles at PwC, Baxter International, US Cellular, and Oracle, Eileen has developed deep expertise in project management, organizational change management, data/information governance, financial management, and process improvement.
In her coaching practice, Eileen focuses on empowering professionals at all stages of their careers. She provides strategic coaching services by leveraging her vast industry knowledge and network, collaborating with clients to assess their strengths and aspirations, and developing tailored plans for professional growth. She helps individuals strategically navigate career changes, uncover new possibilities, and prepare for success through resume development, interview preparation, networking, and salary negotiations.
Known as a passionate leader and mentor, Eileen has guided professionals from entry-level roles to seasoned executives, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and adaptability in career development. She is especially dedicated to supporting recent college graduates and individuals seeking new career directions, encouraging them to embrace change and pursue opportunities that align with their skills and passions.
In addition to her professional work, Eileen has been actively involved in mentoring through the DePaul University Stroebel Honors Program for Accounting Students and serving on the Executive Council of the Chicago Chapter of the Project Management Institute (PMI). Her career and coaching philosophy reflect a consistent commitment to problem-solving, creative thinking, and helping others achieve meaningful success.
• Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I)
• Certified SAFe 6 Agilist
• Boston College - BS
• DePaul University - MBA
• Chicago Chapter of Project Management Institute
What do you attribute your success to?
Having a very good work ethic which requires putting in extra effort and volunteering to help. I also believe in supporting your teams so that they can develop and be the best they can be! Let them make decisions and drive the work forward.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received was to play to my strengths. I’ve learned that when I focus on what I naturally do well, I’m able to bring the most value, stay motivated, and continue growing in ways that feel both authentic and impactful.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I advise young women entering the industry to remain open to unexpected opportunities. Sometimes the best roles and experiences are the ones you didn’t plan for, and staying flexible can lead to growth you never imagined.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is how AI will impact career coaching. Chat GPT and other applications can tell a person what role to pursue and how to pursue that role based on their skills and experience. However, it won't be able to pick up on facial expressions, body language and/or voice changes that a Career Coach can in order to uncover some underlying thoughts that could lead the client in a totally different direction.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important values to me are being authentic, spending your time on things that bring you joy or enrichment. Relationships are so important for your career as well as your personal life - they can help you accomplish your goals and bring you fulfillment.