Julia Williams, PMP, MBA

I attribute my success to the strong values instilled in me by my mother, who raised us in a single-parent home and taught me from an early age that education is essential and never optional. Her work ethic, determination, and commitment to providing us with opportunities shaped my own approach to life and career. My faith and connection to God have also been a constant source of guidance and strength, while my family and close friends have provided encouragement, perspective, and support throughout my journey. I am especially grateful for the lasting relationships I have cultivated over the years, including a close circle of friends and a book club I founded more than 30 years ago. These relationships, along with my upbringing and faith, have helped keep me grounded, motivated, and committed to continuous growth.

The best career advice I have ever received is to do what you love, because when you are passionate about your work, it does not feel like work. Loving what you do gives you the motivation to show up each day with enthusiasm, purpose, and a genuine commitment to making a difference. I believe that when you pursue work that inspires you, the passion naturally follows, and with it come the rewards, opportunities for growth, and ultimately the compensation. Most importantly, finding fulfillment in what you do allows you to end each day feeling proud of your contributions and the impact you have made.

My advice to young women entering the industry is to take every opportunity to gain meaningful exposure to the areas that interest them. Seek out shadowing opportunities, volunteer experiences, internships, and professional programs that allow you to learn, explore, and build practical skills. I also encourage you to find both a mentor and a coach who can provide guidance, perspective, and support as you navigate your career. Most importantly, stay focused on your education, remain curious, and actively research opportunities that can expand your knowledge and professional network. The more experiences you gain early on, the more confidently you can identify your strengths, discover your passions, and build a successful career.

One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is navigating a changing economy while remaining confident in the value I bring to the table. It is important to recognize opportunities that align with my experience, goals, and professional worth, while also having the confidence to decline opportunities that do not make sense or fall below my value. Learning to assess each opportunity thoughtfully and being comfortable saying no when necessary has been an important part of maintaining both professional integrity and long-term career fulfillment.

The values most important to me in both my professional and personal life are leadership, collaboration, and a genuine passion for enhancing the lives of others. I am deeply committed to health, fitness, and wellness, and I believe in advocating for individuals who may not have the knowledge, resources, or support they need when navigating critical health challenges. Community is also very important to me, and I am passionate about lifting others, creating opportunities, and helping people reach their full potential. I thrive through collaboration and meaningful connections, and I draw much of my energy and inspiration from working with and supporting others.