Her Story
About Shawna
Shawna Olson is a professional in clinical research study startup based in Mesa, Arizona. She has worked in clinical research since 2016 and entered business operations in 2022. Olson holds a bachelor's degree in music education and maintains certification as a Certified Clinical Research Coordinator (CCRC) through the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP). She is an active ACRP member who speaks at local chapter conferences. Olson attributes her professional success to the influence of other women in leadership roles. She values empowerment, courage, respect, curiosity, authenticity, integrity, connection, presence, clarity, and creativity in both her work and personal life. Among the career advice she has received, she highlights the importance of being willing to train on everything, and she encourages young women entering the field to take up space. Olson notes current challenges in research include increased interest paired with decreased funding, which requires doing more with less, while opportunities lie in greater collaboration between sites.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Shawna
01What do you attribute your success to?
Other women in leadership have been key to my success.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Be willing to train on everything.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Take up space.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the challenges is increased interest with decreased funding in research, constantly being challenged to do more with less. Opportunities for growth and development include increased collaboration between sites.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My values include empowerment, courage, respect, curiosity, authenticity, integrity, connection, presence, clarity, and creativity.
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