Jessica Calhoun
Jessica Calhoun is a dynamic operations and training leader known for elevating performance, strengthening organizational culture, and developing leaders across hospitality, customer service, and large‑scale operational environments. With more than a decade of experience, she brings together strategic program development, data‑driven decision‑making, and a people‑first leadership philosophy to drive measurable impact across national platforms.
Professional Focus and Impact
In her current role as National Program Trainer at ABM Industries, Jessica leads the rollout of enterprise‑level training initiatives that support teams across the country. She facilitates engaging virtual learning experiences, equips regional and operational managers with the tools and systems they need to excel, and uses performance data to refine programs and strengthen outcomes. Her work spans leadership development, operational readiness, and continuous improvement—always grounded in clarity, collaboration, and accountability.
Career Foundation and Growth
Jessica launched her career in hospitality in 2014 with Starwood Hotels & Resorts (later Marriott International). Beginning as a training assistant, she quickly advanced into supervisory roles across sales, service, and training. She served as a key liaison between call centers and hotel leadership, coordinated executive visits, and supported general managers and sales teams across multiple properties. These early years—marked by long hours, high visibility, and rapid responsibility—shaped her ability to lead leaders, manage diverse teams, and navigate fast‑paced operational environments.
Cross‑Industry Leadership Experience
Her career has since expanded across organizations including 24‑7 In Touch, Rocket Mortgage, MCI, Cox Communications, and Azamara. Across these roles, she has built expertise in operations management, executive support, technical service, and cruise sales leadership. This breadth allows her to adapt quickly, communicate across functions, and design training that resonates with both frontline teams and senior leadership.
Current Operational Influence
Today, Jessica supports teams operating within major distribution environments—including Amazon facilities—where she trains managers on device usage, operational systems, and best practices for maintenance and janitorial teams. She is known for translating complex processes into clear, actionable guidance that improves productivity, safety, and service quality.
Data‑Driven Leadership
A self‑described data enthusiast, Jessica uses tools such as Power BI to analyze performance across markets. She excels at turning numbers into meaningful stories that drive accountability, highlight opportunities, and inspire growth.
• Vatterott College - Associate's degree, Medical/Clinical Assistant
• Nominated for Supervisor of the Year (twice)
• Selected as Woman of the Year 2025 during International Women's Month
• Domestic Violence Advocacy
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success first to my faith in God and the strength that comes from that foundation. Hard work follows closely behind. Dedication, resilience, and the refusal to give up—even in the moments when quitting feels easier—have shaped every step of my journey. I’ve learned that pushing forward isn’t just about personal achievement; it’s about the people who depend on you, whether at home or in your professional life.
I believe deeply in sharing knowledge, not guarding it. Growth happens when we lift others, pass on what we’ve learned, and create opportunities for people to thrive. Someone always benefits from the wisdom you’re willing to share. That mindset—faith, perseverance, and generosity—continues to guide my work and the impact I strive to make every day.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is simple but unforgettable: “Be the duck.”
When we watch ducks glide across the water, they appear calm, steady, and effortless. But beneath the surface, their feet are moving rapidly, working hard to keep them in motion. That image has stayed with me throughout my career.
In leadership, systems fail, logins crash, technology freezes, and unexpected challenges hit all at once. Those moments can create chaos behind the scenes—but the people who look to you for guidance shouldn’t feel that panic. Your job is to remain composed, steady, and reassuring on the surface, even while you’re working tirelessly underneath to solve the problem.
“Be the duck” is a reminder that grace under pressure is a form of leadership. It protects your team, builds trust, and creates stability in moments when everything else feels unstable.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Believing in yourself is the foundation of every meaningful achievement. Confidence opens doors, but it’s the people who walk alongside you—your mentors—who help shape the path. Seek out mentors who not only recognize your potential but actively invest in developing it. The right mentors challenge you, guide you, and help refine the strengths you already carry. When you combine self-belief with the wisdom of those who’ve walked the road before you, you create a powerful formula for growth, resilience, and long-term success.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
True leadership, in my experience, is rooted in working alongside your team, not above them. I believe leaders should be willing and able to do the very work they expect from others. When you’re willing to get in the trenches, you earn trust, credibility, and genuine buy‑in. It shows your team that you understand their challenges and that you’re committed to their success—not just directing from a distance.
I also believe that leadership requires humility and continuous learning. If you’re the smartest person in the room, it’s time to find a new room. Growth comes from staying curious, seeking new perspectives, and remaining a student no matter how far you advance in your career.
Outside of work, that love of learning shows up in my personal life. I’m an avid reader—something that has been part of me since childhood. Every year, I set a reading goal across multiple genres, aiming for 250 books. The closest I’ve come is 236, and every book adds something new to how I think, lead, and connect with others.
Cooking is another passion of mine. I love exploring different cuisines and challenging myself to master new techniques and flavors. Lately, I’ve been especially drawn to European and Asian cuisines and am excited to deepen my skills in both.
Together, these values—hands‑on leadership, lifelong learning, curiosity, and creativity—shape how I show up professionally and personally.
Locations
ABM Industries
Wichita, KS 67226