Her Story
About Kathy
I am originally from Montana and was a paralegal for 2 law firms prior to joining the Army in 1992. I joined at age 29 because I just wanted to see if I could do it, make it through basic training and all the tough physical fitness that they put you through before I turned 30. When I got there, I loved it. I had finally found my niche, and I truly enjoyed the structured life. My photo and copy of the Purple Heart is up at the JAG Corps school as the first paralegal in OIF1 to receive the Purple Heart. I was glad it was not posthumously. I am happy being retired, I enjoy belonging to the Holy Family Catholic Church, raising 9 dogs (all rescued dogs), and keeping fit.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kathy
01What do you attribute your success to?
My Mom and Dad were always had a great work ethic and instilled the importance of that in all of us growing up. I am the only girl in the family of 5 kids - 3 of my brothers were military. Dad had 9 brothers and they were all in the military (different branches). My Mom's father was in WWI with 1st Cavalry in France during trench warfare. As you can see, I come from a large military family and also a law enforcement family - uncle was a Sheriff, a brother was a Chief of Police. I got the best of both worlds working JAG in the Army.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice is to make a decision, don't just sit on the fence wondering what to do. Sometimes it might not be the right decision but at least you made one. Like they say, a squirrel either goes right or left on the road, if they stay in the center, they will be roadkill.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't be afraid. The only thing holding you back is going to be your fear, and don't let that stop you. A lot of times, things seem like they're insurmountable, but they're not. Once you get over your fears, then it's all gravy.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I'm retired now but I believe that the biggest challenge and opportunity will be learning how to utilize AI to our advantage as paralegals.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Loyalty. The Army instills the acronym LDRSHIP which stands for Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage. If you don't have Loyalty to your country, to your job, to your boss, to your corporation, then you won't have the remaining attributes. Honor and Integrity are right up there too.
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