Influential Woman · Engineering Services
Erika Higgins
Planning and Engineering Professional, Private Company
Evanston, IL 60202
Her Story
About Erika
Erika Higgins is a planning and engineering professional with expertise in operational support, procurement, vendor management, and engineering logistics. She currently applies her technical background to both engineering-focused client projects and the real estate industry, where she has recently expanded her professional career. Her responsibilities include onboarding, purchase order management, monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs), coordinating parts procurement, and responding to vendor-related requests. Certified in cybersecurity and consulting, Erika is recognized for her ability to streamline processes, maintain operational efficiency, and deliver dependable support across complex projects.
Erika's academic achievements reflect her commitment to excellence and continuous learning. She graduated as the valedictorian of her high school, earning a 4.9 GPA while leading a graduating class of more than 1,300 students. She earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), followed by a master's degree and PhD from Colorado Technical University, and later completed an executive master's degree at Georgetown University. Her extensive education, combined with professional certifications in cybersecurity and consulting, has provided her with a strong foundation in engineering, strategic planning, and technical consulting.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Erika supports her community through her involvement with the Chicago Food Depository. She also enjoys balancing her career with family life as the mother of a young child. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, writing, and traveling, pursuits that reflect her curiosity, creativity, and appreciation for lifelong learning and new experiences.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Erika
01What do you attribute your success to?
My success comes from self-motivation and drive. I am the only one in my family who finished school. My mom had four kids and I saw how poor she was so I didn't want that lifestyle of struggling. My dad wasn't in my life much. Dealing with the struggles of life and self-motivation has always attributed to my success.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
My high school counselor always told me to keep going to school and always have a plan. If Plan A don't work, have a Plan B. If Plan B don't work, have a Plan C. If Plan C don't work have your emergency backup plan, so I always follow that guidance.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me are family, balance, and continuous growth. As a mother to my one-year-old, I cherish spending time with my child. I also enjoy reading, writing, and traveling, which inspire me both personally and professionally.
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