Her Story
About Heather
Heather Drost is a consultant, supply chain data and process specialist, and business advisor with more than two decades of experience spanning supply chain operations, customer service, project management, process improvement, technology training, and business consulting. She currently serves as a Supply Chain Data & Process Specialist at Tobii Dynavox® while also leading her own consulting company, HD Thoughtz, where she helps individuals and small businesses achieve success through career coaching, resume development, technology education, and operational guidance. Her expertise includes data-driven decision-making, business process optimization, artificial intelligence education, and professional development.
Committed to lifelong learning and innovation, Heather has expanded her expertise into artificial intelligence by authoring a three-part educational series designed to make AI more understandable and accessible for individuals and organizations. Through her consulting practice, she delivers AI foundations training, Microsoft Office and Google Workspace instruction, mock interview coaching, resume development, and strategic guidance for entrepreneurs launching or growing small businesses. Her diverse professional background also includes service as a former EMT and volunteer firefighter, experiences that strengthened her leadership, resilience, compassion, and commitment to helping others succeed.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Heather is deeply committed to community service and workforce development. She regularly volunteers with churches and women's shelters, providing resume assistance, interview coaching, career guidance, and connections to employment resources for individuals seeking new opportunities. Guided by values of integrity, kindness, continuous learning, and service, she strives to empower people through education, technology, mentorship, and innovation while helping individuals and organizations reach their full potential.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Heather
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the inspiration I receive from my daughter and my husband. My husband has always been my backbone and major supporter, telling me I can do anything I set my mind too. My daughter's dedication, academic excellence, and determination continually motivate me to become a better professional and person. She has encouraged me to stay focused, persevere through challenges, and prove that hard work and resilience can overcome any obstacle. I have also been guided by advice from a Chief Operating Officer who taught me that success is not determined solely by formal education, but by how effectively I apply knowledge to solve problems and create value. Above all, I live by the principles my family instilled in me: focus on what I can accomplish today rather than dwelling on the past, and always treat others with the same respect, kindness, and compassion that I hope to receive.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
One of the most valuable pieces of career advice I have ever received came from a Chief Operating Officer who reminded me that success is not defined by the degree you earn, but by the knowledge you gain and how effectively you apply it in your work. That perspective has shaped my approach to continuous learning, professional development, and problem-solving throughout my career.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice is to stay focused on your personal and professional goals while believing in your own abilities, regardless of what others may say. Confidence, determination, and resilience are essential qualities that will help you navigate challenges and continue moving forward.
Develop a strong mindset, embrace opportunities to learn, and never allow anyone to convince you that you are incapable of achieving your goals. The stronger your confidence and commitment become, the greater your opportunities for success will be in any career.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest opportunities in my field is helping individuals and organizations better understand and confidently adopt artificial intelligence. Many people are interested in AI but are unsure how to apply it effectively in their personal or professional lives.
To help bridge that knowledge gap, I wrote a three-part educational series on artificial intelligence and am integrating AI foundations training into my consulting business. My goal is to make AI more accessible, practical, and approachable so people can leverage emerging technologies to improve productivity, solve business challenges, and support long-term growth.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I believe in treating others with the same respect, kindness, and compassion that I expect for myself. That principle has guided every stage of my personal and professional life and continues to influence how I lead, mentor, and serve others.
I also believe in focusing on the present rather than dwelling on the past. Every day provides a new opportunity to learn, grow, and make a positive impact. My daughter continues to inspire me to pursue excellence, remain resilient, and demonstrate that perseverance, integrity, and continuous learning can overcome any challenge.
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