Norma Maldonado

I attribute much of my success to the values instilled in me by my parents, who immigrated to the United States in search of a better life. Growing up in a family of eight siblings, I learned early on the importance of hard work, resilience, and shared responsibility, with each family member contributing however we could. My parents’ unwavering work ethic and emphasis on integrity shaped my foundation, teaching me that success is built on honesty, perseverance, and character. Starting to work at a young age, I developed a mindset of always moving forward, even in the face of challenges. I take great pride in my humble beginnings and remain deeply grateful for the sacrifices my parents made to create opportunities for their children. Their example continues to guide me today, reinforcing my belief that with hard work, determination, and a strong moral compass, it is possible to overcome obstacles and achieve meaningful success.

One of the most influential pieces of career advice I received came from Donna F. Zarcone during my time at Harley-Davidson Financial Services in Chicago. A respected leader and mentor, Donna saw potential in me early on, took me under her wing, and challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone. Through her encouragement and trust, she gave me opportunities that helped me build confidence, find my voice, and grow into my leadership capabilities. At the time, I was very humble and reserved, and her belief in me made a lasting impact—helping me recognize strengths I didn’t yet see in myself. Over the years, our relationship evolved, and there were moments when she came to me for advice, which was truly a full-circle experience and a reflection of my own growth. From that experience, I learned the importance of mentorship—seeking out people who inspire you, paying attention to how they lead, and staying open to guidance. I firmly believe that having trusted mentors, and becoming one for others, is essential to both personal and professional success.

When I offer advice to young women entering the industry, I always emphasize the importance of believing in your potential and embracing opportunities with confidence. My perspective comes from my own journey—growing up in a large family with immigrant parents who came to the United States with very little. I credit my success to hard work, gratitude, and a determination to make the most of every opportunity. I encourage others not to be afraid to take risks, step outside their comfort zones, and fully invest in their ambitions. Early in my career, I was quiet and reserved, starting as a receptionist, but I made it a point to observe the leaders around me—how they made decisions, approached challenges, and led their teams. That curiosity and willingness to grow became the foundation of my leadership style today. I strongly believe in seeking out mentors who can provide guidance and perspective, and now, as a leader, I’m passionate about mentoring others and supporting them in their own journeys. Above all, I believe in trusting yourself, taking that leap, and never underestimating what you’re capable of achieving—I’ve always reminded my three kids that the sky truly is the limit—there’s nothing out of reach if you’re willing to go for it!

One of the most significant challenges—and opportunities—in my field today is navigating the evolving future of work. With the rise of remote and hybrid models, we are constantly rethinking how to create office environments that not only bring people back, but also foster collaboration, engagement, and a true sense of purpose. At Stout, I’m actively involved in these efforts through a cross-functional “future of work” leadership team, where we explore innovative ways to align workplace design with the changing needs of our workforce. At the same time, I recognize the growing impact of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, and the importance of embracing these advancements to stay forward-looking and competitive. Alongside these opportunities come ongoing challenges—from shifting expectations to logistical hurdles like complex permitting processes on office projects. I’ve learned the importance of staying adaptable and resilient, and being willing to pivot when needed. For me, the dynamic nature of this field—full of constant change, new ideas, and evolving opportunities—is what makes the work both challenging and incredibly rewarding.

The values that guide me, both professionally and personally, are rooted in integrity, hard work, and a genuine commitment to others. I believe that being an honest person and leading with strong character are the foundation of any meaningful success. The work ethic my parents instilled in me from a young age continues to shape how I approach every aspect of my life. I truly believe that when you act with integrity, work hard, and stay resilient through challenges, you will achieve your goals—even if there are setbacks along the way. I feel incredibly grateful for my journey and proud of how far I’ve come, while still remaining committed to learning and growing every day. Just as important to me is the ability to inspire and uplift others, especially women who come from humble beginnings. As a leader, I’m passionate about mentoring my team, supporting their growth, and being a source of guidance—because I want others to see that with perseverance, strong values, and belief in yourself, success is absolutely within reach.