Her Story
About Lauren
Lauren Fowler is the President and CEO of Hampton Roads Automation (HRA), a Virginia-based automation and controls company specializing in innovative solutions for the utilities industry. She co-founded the company in September 2021 after her husband and several colleagues were unexpectedly impacted by job losses, turning a challenging moment into an opportunity to build a business founded on integrity, expertise, and service. Today, Lauren leads the company's operations, procurement, and human resources initiatives while helping drive HRA's continued growth as a trusted partner for public utilities and critical infrastructure projects. Her leadership reflects a commitment to operational excellence, collaboration, and delivering measurable value to the communities HRA serves.
Before launching Hampton Roads Automation, Lauren built a successful career in public utilities, serving in operations, procurement, contracting, and administrative leadership roles with organizations including the Hampton Roads Sanitation District and the City of Petersburg. Her experience managing complex public-sector operations and supporting large departments provided the foundation for developing HRA's organizational structure, procurement processes, employee programs, and family-oriented workplace culture. Lauren earned her bachelor's degree in Business Administration and continues to invest in her professional development by pursuing her SHRM certification to further strengthen the company's human resources practices. She is also an active member of the Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) and leads a Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB)-certified organization dedicated to excellence and innovation.
Lauren's leadership philosophy is deeply rooted in faith, integrity, and treating people with fairness and respect. She believes that every employee deserves to feel valued, supported, and empowered, fostering a culture where teamwork and personal growth go hand in hand. Looking toward the future, Lauren is passionate about expanding opportunities for her team, including exploring an employee-owned business model that allows employees to share in the company's long-term success. Honored as one of the Influential Women 2026, Lauren hopes her journey encourages other women to pursue leadership opportunities confidently, embrace challenges with resilience, and lead with authenticity, compassion, and purpose.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Lauren
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my faith, my family, and the incredible people I have the privilege of working alongside every day. My husband and I launched our company in 2021 with the belief that it is ultimately God's, and that perspective has shaped every decision we've made. Building a strong, family-oriented culture where people feel valued and supported has been one of my greatest priorities. While my background in operations and procurement has provided a strong foundation, I believe my greatest strength is investing in people and helping them succeed. Balancing leadership with raising our six children has taught me resilience, humility, and the importance of leading with grace. Watching our company grow into something that serves both our team and our community continues to inspire me every day.
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