Her Story
About Heather
I’ve spent nearly 20 years in the public school system, and my path hasn’t been a straight line—in the best way. I’ve taken on a variety of roles over the years, which has helped me better understand my strengths, adapt to new challenges, and figure out what I truly enjoy. Staying within the same system while moving into different positions has given me the chance to grow alongside others and see the bigger picture of how our work connects. A couple of years ago, I decided to go back to school as an adult after nearly a 30-year break. I earned my bachelor’s degree from the University of Louisville in less than two years while working full-time, graduating with a 4.0 in May 2024. That experience pushed me in all the right ways and opened doors that hadn’t been available to me before. Soon after graduating, I stepped into my current role as a technology trainer in September 2024. It’s a position that truly fits me. I get to collaborate with teams across the organization, support others, and share work that people find valuable enough to pass along. That kind of impact—and the relationships that come with it—has been incredibly energizing. Looking back, going back to school was a turning point that helped me move into work I find both meaningful and enjoyable.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Heather
01What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to keep learning—and to genuinely enjoy the process. Growth isn’t always easy, but there’s value in the challenge. Embracing both the journey and the difficult moments makes the experience more meaningful and worthwhile.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
There will be roadblocks—moments where you have to navigate challenges, push through, and find another way forward—but the journey is worth it. Stay committed and keep going; the outcome makes the effort meaningful. It’s also powerful to be part of a group of women who support and encourage one another, and just as important to be someone who offers that encouragement and motivation in return.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the most meaningful opportunities in my career has been the chance to collaborate with colleagues across different departments within my organization. In my role as a technology trainer, I’ve been able to build relationships beyond my immediate team, and it’s been rewarding to see my work recognized and shared across departments. That kind of connection and visibility has been incredibly energizing for me.
At the same time, working in a public school system within the government sector can come with certain limitations. There are structures and ceilings that can sometimes make growth feel more constrained than it might be in other industries. That has been a challenge, and I’ve found myself at times considering whether to explore opportunities elsewhere to expand my impact and responsibilities. Even so, I continue to feel a strong pull toward this work and the field I’m in, which keeps me grounded in my purpose here.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Loyalty is important to me, along with being authentic in both my professional and personal life. I also value transparency and honesty—while they’re closely connected, each one plays a slightly different role in building trust and strong relationships.
Keep Exploring
More Influential Women · Kentucky
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.