Linda Blanchard

I attribute my success to my faith, hard work, a deep commitment to education, and the unwavering support of my family.

I strongly believe in lifelong learning—whether through formal education or simply a constant desire to read, grow, and expand your knowledge. Continual learning has always been essential to both personal and professional success.

I’ve also been incredibly blessed with a wonderful family—a husband of 40 years and two amazing children with their spouses and 4 beautiful grandchildren. Building both a successful career and a strong family foundation requires tremendous effort, but when that work is fueled by passion and love, it becomes deeply rewarding.

I also believe success, especially for women, is rooted in balance. The idea of “having it all” is possible, but it requires managing priorities with grace and realism. It’s not about being perfect in every role at every moment—it’s about striving to do your best as both a leader and a parent, while understanding that your best is more than enough. True success comes from embracing that balance and recognizing the value in giving your all, even when perfection isn’t possible.

The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my father who started the business with my brother and I. He told me, “Don’t let the bastards bring you down.”

What he meant was that, as a woman working in a traditionally male-dominated industry, I would inevitably face challenges, skepticism, and adversity—but it was critical to remain confident, resilient, and steadfast. His advice was a reminder to stand tall, trust my abilities, and never allow others to diminish my value or determination.

Over the years, I’ve also learned the power of strength paired with grace. I once observed a highly influential businesswoman navigate difficult situations with remarkable poise and kindness. Rather than meeting resistance with confrontation, she led with professionalism, composure, and quiet confidence—and it was incredibly powerful to witness.

That experience reinforced an important lesson: resilience doesn’t always have to be loud. Sometimes, the most effective way to succeed is through perseverance, kindness, and unwavering self-belief. That philosophy has become a personal mantra throughout my career.

My best advice to young women entering this industry is to embrace who you are—don’t feel pressured to conform to someone else’s model of leadership.

Women bring unique strengths to leadership, often approaching challenges, decision-making, and team dynamics differently. That difference is not a weakness; it is a tremendous asset. Confidence in yourself, a strong work ethic, and the courage to trust your instincts are essential foundations for success.

Having worked in a highly male-dominated industry throughout my career, I’ve learned that success does not come from trying to imitate others. Instead, it comes from leading authentically, leveraging your own strengths, and recognizing the value of your perspective as a woman. Women are exceptional leaders, not because they lead the same way as men, but because they often bring qualities such as empathy, resilience, collaboration, and innovation in ways that are deeply needed.

My advice is to be confident in your brilliance, your kindness, your determination, and your ability to lead powerfully. Take risks, step outside your comfort zone, and don’t let fear prevent you from pursuing your goals. Growth and opportunity often lie on the other side of uncertainty, and more often than not, the rewards far outweigh the risks.

Believe in yourself, lead authentically, and never underestimate the impact you are capable of making.

One of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in our industry right now is the rise of artificial intelligence.

In the trades, we may not face the same level of concern about AI directly replacing jobs as some other industries do, but its integration into our daily operations will have a significant impact. The real opportunity lies in how we leverage AI and emerging technologies to improve efficiency, strengthen marketing, enhance communication, and support better decision-making.

As strong advocates for technology and innovation, we recognize the tremendous potential AI offers. However, with that potential also comes responsibility. One of the greatest challenges ahead is ensuring that AI is implemented thoughtfully, ethically, and in ways that genuinely benefit businesses, employees, and communities.

As industry leaders, business owners, and community stakeholders, it is essential that we carefully navigate both the advantages and risks of AI. The goal should not be fear, but awareness—understanding how to maximize its benefits while remaining vigilant about its misuse.

Ultimately, AI represents a powerful tool, and our responsibility is to ensure it is used wisely, responsibly, and for the greater good.

The values most important to me in both my professional and personal life are faith, love, family, health, and a genuine culture of caring.

Faith and family serve as my foundation, while health is essential—because without it, very little else can thrive. In both leadership and life, I believe it’s important to lead with strength and authority, but equally with kindness, compassion, and respect.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that true leadership is about making people feel valued. Listening more than you speak, showing others they matter, and leading with empathy create stronger relationships, better opportunities, and more meaningful success.

As I reflect on my journey, especially after recently turning 65, I recognize that one of my greatest assets is the wisdom I’ve gained through experience. That wisdom has allowed me to appreciate every stage of my life—from the mistakes and uncertainties of my younger years to the confidence and pride I carry today.

I am incredibly proud of what I’ve accomplished, both personally and professionally, while also recognizing there is still more to achieve. Above all, I value growth, purpose, and the continual pursuit of becoming the best version of myself.