Her Story
About Kathryn
Kathryn Howlett is the owner and operator of Engravings by Kathryn, a specialized event engraving business based in Keller, Texas. She provides personalized engraving services on glasses, bottles, and a variety of other items for corporate and private events, bringing a distinctive, handcrafted touch to special occasions and brand experiences. Kathryn launched her engraving business in 2020 after gaining her first experience with the craft during the COVID-19 pandemic, transforming a new skill into a successful entrepreneurial venture.
Before becoming an entrepreneur, Kathryn developed a diverse professional background that included telecom engineering, where she designed call centers for major clients such as Texaco, Cigna, and Foley's while working with organizations including IBM and Siemens. She has since expanded her expertise across business ownership, design consulting, luxury furniture, retail management, showroom operations, and corporate gifting. Her ability to combine technical experience with creativity, communication, and customer service has allowed her to develop meaningful relationships and deliver highly personalized solutions for her clients.
Kathryn is guided by integrity, continuous learning, generosity, and a strong commitment to helping the next generation succeed. She believes that experience should be accompanied by ongoing education and encourages others to keep learning and developing their skills throughout their careers. She also values financial responsibility, fair treatment of employees and partners, and finding fulfillment through giving to others. A survivor of domestic abuse who has overcome significant personal adversity, including a life-threatening medical emergency, Kathryn credits determination and faith for helping her persevere. She continues to give back through weekly church volunteering and mentorship, with a particular passion for encouraging and empowering the next generation.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kathryn
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to resilience, perseverance, and the determination to never give up, even during some of the darkest and most challenging moments of my life. As a survivor of domestic abuse, experiencing significant loss, and overcoming a life-threatening medical emergency, I have learned the importance of strength, courage, and maintaining hope in the face of adversity. These experiences have shaped who I am today and continue to motivate me to move forward, embrace challenges, and pursue my goals with unwavering determination.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to live within my means, always compensate people fairly for their work, and strive to live a good and meaningful life. These principles have taught me the importance of financial responsibility, integrity, and treating others with fairness and respect while maintaining a sense of purpose and balance in both my personal and professional life.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to never stop learning and continually invest in your education and professional development. Experience alone is not enough if you are simply repeating the same year over and over; true growth comes from challenging yourself, seeking new knowledge, and remaining open to new opportunities. Stay curious, continue to develop your skills, and be intentional about growing both personally and professionally.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, faith in God, and a commitment to the next generation. I believe life is a true gift, and its greatest meaning comes not from what we receive, but from what we are able to give to others. I strive to lead with honesty, serve with purpose, and make a positive impact by encouraging and supporting those who will shape the future.
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