Her Story
About Krista
My career journey began in the Army where I served as a MP with the Army Reserves and also earned my criminal justice degree, originally planning a career in law enforcement. However, when my son was born in 2001 and my unit was deployed, I realized I could never leave my newborn, which led me to explore alternative career paths. I started part-time in an office at Airbase Carpet Mart, and that's what led me into the flooring industry where I am today. After a few years, I was transitioned into a sales role, not by my choice, but it ended up being one of the best decisions that was made for me. That transition then led into store management until I felt it was the right time to transition to a new company. I've now been with Touch of Color Flooring for 10 years as of this October, totaling 27 years in the industry.
Persistence, continuous learning, and strong mentorship that allowed me to gradually moved into the leadership positions. Each role provided unique lessons and opportunities that have influenced my career path and personal development
My current role is with Touch of Color Flooring, an ESOP-owned company, I manage our the builder division for all of our locations . My role consists of aligning people, processes, and resources necessary to support our builders and ensure successful outcomes. I'm responsible for developing operational and strategic components for successful communication, material flow, problem solving and customer relationships along with developing programs with and scopes of work. Lastly, I will source specifications by attending various expos and shows, quantifying deals, making decisions on what products we're going to provide to our end users or builders, and negotiating those deals with various manufacturers.
Being a female in a male-dominated industry has not always been easy. I found myself many times having to work harder to establish credibility and even just to earn a seat at the table, whether at builder meetings or negotiating with suppliers. There were many times where I had to prove my expertise before my ideas would even be considered. But as years went on, being consistent, giving clients the results they need, having industry knowledge, being professional, and showing confidence in my answers has helped to build my credibility.
My territory encompasses several regions throughout Pennsylvania, branching down into Virginia, and we service Maryland, West Virginia, and Ohio.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Krista
01What do you attribute your success to?
I'm always passionate about everything that I do. When I began my career in that small, entry-level role, and it was through persistence, the continuous learning, and strong mentorship that allowed me to gradually moved into the leadership positions. Each role provided unique lessons and opportunities that have influenced my career path and personal development.
I also believe that you need to build a strong team with great communication in order to be successful in this industry. Strong communication and honest feedback are critical components to that success. A true leader listens, learns, and helps others realize their potential. Success in this industry isn’t about one person. It’s about the strength of the team behind them.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Never stop learning. Every challenge, success, or even setback is an opportunity to learn if you’re willing to listen and adapt accordingly.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
This is a male-dominated industry, and it has not always been easy being a female in it. You'll find yourself many times having to work harder to establish credibility and even just to earn a seat at the table, whether it's at builder meetings or negotiating with suppliers. There will be times where you have to prove your expertise before your ideas will even be considered. But I will say, as years go on, being consistent, giving your clients the results that they need by having industry knowledge, being professional, and establishing a proven track record by doing what you say you will do is key.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The industry is constantly changing, and I have to stay abreast those evolvements. Attending classes, expos, being on top of design trends is a must for our industry.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, communication, accountability, and respect. I believe in doing what you say, being honest and transparent in my communication, and treating others with respect regardless of their role or background.
Keep Exploring
More Influential Women · Pennsylvania
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.