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Two steps forward, one step back. Over the past decade, businesses have advanced gender equity with more women in leadership and stronger inclusion efforts. However, the 2024 “Women in the Workplace” report from McKinsey & Co. and LeanIn.org (https://tinyurl.com/2sr4e9t4) warns that “change is hard and messy,” and progress is “more fragile and less extensive than it first appears.”
Despite some gains, commitment to diversity is declining, with a number of organizations pulling back instead of pushing forward. The report urges businesses to stay the course: “Our ask is simple: keep going.” Women remain “ambitious and committed,” and now, companies must match that dedication. The takeaway? “We believe corporate America can do better, and we know women deserve better.”
Once again, PHCPPros aims to supplement this data and identify how these broader workforce trends may appear in the plumbing, heating, cooling and piping (PHCP) community. Through interviews with women in various fields, we learn why they enjoy being a part of the PHCP community, how they believe the industry can continue to improve and diversify, and the advice they would give to other women looking to start similar careers.
Join us as we celebrate our 2025 Women In PHCP honorees — 13 inspiring individuals making their mark in different ways!
Sonya Bohmann
Executive Director, Construction Industry Alliancefor Suicide Prevention (CIASP)
Sonya Bohmann is dedicated to addressing one of the construction industry’s most pressing issues — mental health and suicide prevention. Her role at CIASP involves guiding a passionate board of volunteers to provide resources and education aimed at achieving a zero-suicide industry.
Bohmann first began her career in light construction, where she witnessed the industry’s challenges firsthand. “When CIASP was ready to make its first hire, I knew I was applying for my dream job — a chance to marry the industry I love with a cause that is meaningful to me as a loss survivor,” she says.
Bohmann’s deeply personal loss— her sister’s suicide 17 years ago — drives her dedication to suicide prevention.
“My family knows the complex grief associated with a suicide loss,” Bohmann explains. “The opportunity to take my love of construction and my personal experiences with suicide loss and bring them together allows me a unique insight into this mission — both personally and professionally.”
Since stepping into her role 18 months ago, Bohmann has driven impactful change, including growing CIASP’s social media presence, addressing 1,800 attendees at a Construction Financial Management Association conference, and earning the Building PA Podcast’s Episode of the Year award.
She mentors women in the field and credits leaders such as Michelle Walker, Jamie Becker, Kristy Dombroski, Dr. Ann Marie Dale, Jess Bunting, Nazia Shah and Dr. Sally Spencer Thomas for their work in mental health advocacy.
For recruiting and retaining women, Bohmann emphasizes “creating spaces that are smart about mental health and suicide prevention.”
Her advice: “Make your mark. Women bring a unique perspective to our industry; don’t be afraid to use your voice. Everyone can do something to create the change they want to see.”
In a male-controlled industry, Bohmann says women’s voices are often overshadowed. “Being looked to as a leading voice in the construction suicide prevention space means that I am making a difference,” she notes. “The amplification of the mission of CIASP is touching others and saving lives; there really is no greater honor.”
Mary-Anne Bowcott
Owner, Westcom Plumbing and Gas
With 21 years in construction (and 17 in plumbing and gas), Mary-Anne Bowcott runs a plumbing and gas company, as well as a roofing business in Sooke, British Columbia, Canada. While she has built a great career in the PHCP industry, she initially had no interest in plumbing and heating.
“It was just the first job in construction that came my way when I was roofing,” she notes.
Over the years, Bowcott has established herself as a leader, earning multiple trade business and women in construction awards. She also mentors women in the industry through social media. “My DMs are always full, and if a woman in the industry reaches out for advice, I make sure to answer every single one,” she says.
She believes recruiting and retaining women in the industry is more about exposure than promotion.
“I don’t think many women see construction as a feasible career or something they want to pursue,” Bowcott explains. “Giving them a way to try hands-on work could help spark some interest.”
Her advice to women entering the PHCP industry is simple yet powerful:
“Keep your head down (and not buried in your phone) and work hard. One thing you can’t teach is work ethic; you either have it or you don’t. It took years of keeping my mouth shut and working hard to make sure I stood out amongst the men. It’s not hard to excel at a job in construction if you’re willing to put in the work and have a bit of common sense.”
Bowcott says she’s honored to have reached a point where she stands out as a mentor and role model in the industry.
“I never had a female in the industry to look up to — a mentor or a guide — so being that for women out there is pretty incredible,” she says. “Being someone with a rough past and knowing how far I’ve come, building a successful career in this trade is pretty rad.”
Stephanie Compain
Multi-Brand Accounting Manager, Indoor Air Quality Medics Heating & Air Conditioning, a Zephyr Home company
Stephanie Compain started out wearing many hats at Indoor Air Quality Medics Heating & Air Conditioning (IAQ Medics). She essentially was the entire office — answering phones, scheduling customers, managing maintenance contracts and handling accounting.
“Over time, hiring more team members let me focus on accounting and other areas of the business,” she says. “Now, I’ve built my own team and manage even more, especially with our expansion into multiple brands.”
Compain had been exposed to the industry for many years through her husband Dario’s work. When they started IAQ Medics and it grew quickly, she decided to dive in.
“Running a business together has had its ups and downs, but it’s been incredibly rewarding,” she continues. “We’ve built a family-oriented culture at IAQ Medics with a team that shares our values of professionalism, trust and excellent service.”
Taking this leap of faith with her husband and seeing IAQ Medics grow significantly over the past 12 years — while continuing to expand through Zephyr’s portfolio of brands in the area — has been a rewarding experience, Compain says. Another career highlight includes partnering with a firm and managing accounting for six trade service companies with more than $35 million in annual revenue.
Compain plays an active role in guiding women at IAQ Medics and other brands in the Zephyr portfolio, offering support and sharing her experiences to help them grow professionally while also recognizing the importance of creating a welcoming environment where women feel valued and supported in a male-controlled industry.
“I spearheaded an initiative to incorporate technician photos in service dispatch software for customers — especially women — to feel safer and more comfortable,” she explains. “As I have been able to establish myself as a woman in the industry, I hope we can continue to create a network of women in PHCP that encourages and inspires others to take part.”
Compain encourages women entering PHCP to find fulfilling roles, embrace growth opportunities and connect with other women for support and learning. “Over the past 12 years, I have loved my career in HVAC and want to create opportunities for female leaders,” she adds.
Rachel Eckley, PE
Associate, SmithGroup
Rachel Eckley has built a career dedicated to fire protection and life safety in the PHCP industry. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling and observing how other countries implement different fire protection strategies based on norms and histories.
As an associate with SmithGroup, Eckley works on new construction and renovation projects from inception to closeout, including establishing fire protection and life safety criteria, reviewing existing systems, determining fire protection needs and designing sprinkler systems. She also reviews designs from junior fire protection engineers (FPEs) and plumbing engineers, works with fire code officials to determine sprinkler requirements and coordinates fire protection elements for fire department response.
Her interest in the field began when she learned about fire protection engineering while applying to colleges. “FPE interested me because it was a specific major with limitless career possibilities,” Eckley explains. “I was drawn to the architecture and engineering industry as I’ve always loved architecture and design.”
Now, with seven years of professional experience in the industry, Eckley works on high-profile projects. Highlights include the Gilcrease Museum, the KLA R&D headquarters, and the UC Davis 48X Complex (the largest ambulatory surgery center in the country).
“Being able to provide beautiful designs while providing safe spaces for owners and users makes the job worth doing,” she notes. “Providing code officials with comfort that buildings are designed appropriately and protected from fire is extremely rewarding.”
As an active member of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers – San Diego and Imperial Counties Chapter, Eckley also mentors women in the industry, including Carlota Bowen and Kate Hsieh — two junior FPEs at SmithGroup. Eckley believes increasing opportunities for young women early on is crucial for recruitment and retention.
“I attended a Women in Math program in sixth grade that heavily influenced my career path,” she says. “Being surrounded by others with similar interests and skills instilled confidence that women can make meaningful impacts in STEM fields.”
To women entering the PHCP industry, Eckley offers straightforward advice:
“People will doubt your ability due to your background, gender, race or age, but the best thing you can do is show up, work hard and know your stuff. Having self-confidence is so important in this industry.”
Receiving this recognition is validating for Eckley. “There are still plenty of moments I suffer from ‘imposter syndrome,’” she says. “It doesn’t get easier as you get older, but you get better and wiser. This honor reaffirms I made the right choice.”
Angela Grieb
National Sales Manager, General Pipe Cleaners
Angela Grieb’s role at General Pipe Cleaners involves equipping the company’s outside sales force with the tools and resources they need to effectively represent its products across territories. She helps maintain strong customer relationships on an international scale, working closely with reps and customers to identify ways to enhance their experience with the company’s products. Grieb also provides training and attends trade shows to ensure customers are well-informed about General Pipe Cleaners’ equipment.
Her PHCP industry role wasn’t a decision Grieb consciously made, but after working at other manufacturing companies and within the trades, she found a genuine passion for it.
“I love the work, people and constant learning opportunities it offers,” she says. “The PHCP industry is essential, and I’m grateful to be a part of it.”
As Grieb has advanced in her career, she has found inspiration in other women who have made their mark in the industry.
“I admire [fellow honoree] Mary-Anne Bowcott, known as ‘The Lady Plumber.’ Her inspiring story proves women can thrive in this industry,” Grieb says. “I also look up to Jody Kerr, Toro’s national sales manager, and often reach out to her for advice and guidance.”
Currently, Grieb focuses on providing training and education to reps and customers. “As I continue to grow, I hope to mentor other women and contribute to the industry beyond training,” she says.
Grieb believes the industry can better recruit and retain women by introducing the trades as a viable career option earlier, particularly in junior high.
“Programs in schools highlighting roles like plumbing can show young girls that they can pursue these careers,” she explains. “Bringing professionals into schools to share their experiences would help inspire students to pursue more nontraditional professions.”
Grieb’s advice to a woman entering the PHCP industry is to never quit learning through training or hands-on experience.
“Since it’s still a male-dominated field, it’s important to be confident and assertive, demonstrating your expertise,” she says. “Don’t let anyone dismiss you because of your gender; instead, prove yourself through your skills and dedication.”
Lucy Kelly
Branch Manager, Reece USA
Lucy Kelly holds the position of branch manager for the largest Reece location, with 97 team members and $110 million in annual sales. This role’s responsibilities include sales and all aspects of operations, such as managing 24 fleet vehicles and Department of Transportation drivers.
Kelly relocated to the United States from Germany, where she was born and raised. She says that, like many in the PHCP industry, she initially accepted a role in the credit field.
After obtaining her MBA, Kelly was offered a job to create credit policies for the newly acquired Farnsworth sector as the regional credit manager.
“This opportunity was my first insight into structuring policies and procedures,” she explains.
A career highlight for Kelly was accepting a role outside of her experience level, transitioning from credit to branch management. Securing her first-ever large sales account was another significant achievement. Additionally, the CEO of Reece named Kelly’s Reece location as an outstanding branch in the company’s annual report. Plus, she’s had “the privilege of working with the best people in the PHCP industry.”
Kelly mentors countless women and considers education, leadership and guidance essential to her profession.
“I love seeing women grow in this industry,” she says. “I wish more women would see the industry as a great place to build a career.”
Furthermore, Kelly believes the industry needs to be more open to individuals who haven’t “grown up” in the business.
“The PHCP industry is built on relationships, and we should continue recruiting women from outside the field who possess skills that may not initially seem directly applicable but can be adapted and converted to roles within the industry,” she says.
Kelly has been married for 13 years and has two children. While she is deeply dedicated to her work, she says the other part of her life is devoted to her family.
Rebecca Negovan
Marketing Director, ThermOmegaTech
Rebecca Negovan oversees marketing efforts for ThermOmegaTech’s thermostatic temperature control valve solutions, managing the CircuitSolver brand. Her role includes advertising, branding, search engine marketing, email, trade shows and event management.
“Through initiatives with manufacturer’s reps and partners, I ensure CircuitSolver remains a trusted name in domestic hot water balancing,” she says.
Negovan unexpectedly entered the PHCP industry after working in inside sales at an industrial distributor. When she discovered ThermOmegaTech, whose products serve a similar market, Negovan saw an opportunity to apply her skills and education in a new capacity.
“While I initially had limited industry knowledge, I quickly developed a strong appreciation for it,” she notes. “Nine years later, I continue to enjoy contributing to this field.”
Indeed, one of Negovan’s key career highlights has been contributing to the growth of CircuitSolver.
“When I joined ThermOmegaTech in 2016, the product required significant industry education,” she says. “Through strategic initiatives, I’ve helped drive adoption, making thermostatic balancing the industry standard.”
Outside of her role at ThermOmegaTech, Negovan is a member of the American Supply Association’s Women in Industry division and says hearing the experiences and challenges of other women has shaped her growth and reinforced her confidence and leadership skills. She believes such organizations help build support networks and play a crucial role in recruitment and retention.
She also suggests promoting career opportunities early, fostering mentorship programs and highlighting female leaders. Inclusive cultures, leadership development and equal growth opportunities are essential. And as far as her advice for women entering the industry? Negovan keeps it simple: Go for it.
“Women are still a minority in this field, which presents a great opportunity to stand out and grow into leadership roles,” she notes.
When it comes to herself, Negovan says she couldn’t have achieved this without her husband’s encouragement, and her family is the most important part of her life.
“Balancing a career and motherhood can be challenging, but their support has helped me grow personally and professionally, and I am grateful,” she says.
Brooke Nichols
Plumbing Apprentice, Plumbers Local 200
Brooke Nichols is a fifth-year plumbing apprentice with Plumbers Local 200 in Long Island, New York. She has a range of responsibilities and experiences behind the desk and in the field.
“As an apprentice, you learn in the field by being a helper and doing tasks on your own,” she explains. “From medical gas to new construction, you get a full range of exposure to the industry.”
Nichols’ journey to the trades began when she was 14, becoming a welder through a Board of Cooperative Educational Services special education program.
“I was diagnosed with severe OCD as a child, which shifted my life in a different direction,” she says. “However, I’m deeply grateful for discovering the skilled trades and gaining a skill set that no one can take from me.”
While Nichols comes from a welding and machining background, she decided to try plumbing when a coworker recommended it.
“It’s a skill I can take anywhere in the world and also one that can survive the artificial intelligence boom,” she says. “While I was apprehensive at first, I am so glad I stuck with it.”
Some of Nichols’ career highlights include working with skilled foremen who taught her about the industry through their own experiences on the job. Although she does not have a personal mentor, she finds inspiration from female plumbers on social media.
“I share my experience as a tradeswoman because I want to be a resource for women interested in the industry,” she explains. “I do my best to encourage and help educate women who are interested in skilled trades, whether it be as a welder, plumber or anything in between.”
Nichols believes the industry should be transparent about job expectations for women and provide more childcare resources. “Women often handle child-rearing, and as a mother of three, I know firsthand how challenging it is to balance both,” she says.
When it comes to her advice for women entering the PHCP industry, Nichols says to identify ideal roles and ask plenty of questions. “Even if something doesn’t directly benefit you long-term, the knowledge gained can be valuable in other areas of life,” she says. “Stay in a learning mindset; there’s always something to learn from others.”
Nichols says she is grateful her friend John Mullen saw her as a worthy candidate to nominate for this honor.
“Especially with John’s background in the field, it’s humbling for me,” she says. “I hope to continue to inspire women who are interested in joining a male-dominated workforce.”
Tammy Nixon
Vice President of Product Development and Marketing, Franke Home Solutions
Tammy Nixon drives growth and supports business partners’ sales at Franke Home Solutions. She oversees the product life cycle for North America, ensuring the company’s offerings meet evolving customer needs. Nixon collaborates with global teams on brand positioning and messaging to highlight products’ value.
“My role bridges product development and market demands, strengthening Franke’s position in the PHCP industry,” she explains.
Nixon’s journey into the industry began during a kitchen remodel that ignited her passion for cooking and decorating.
“I was introduced to Franke, a company with a rich history and innovative products, and I felt an immediate connection and knew this role was perfect for me,” she says. “I wanted to educate homeowners and professionals about the importance of high-quality sinks and faucets in kitchen renovations, ensuring their spaces are both functional and beautifully designed.”
A career highlight for Nixon was co-inventing a patented product that transformed thread organization in the sewing industry. Additionally, she says her tenure at Franke has provided invaluable opportunities for professional growth.
“I am eager to collaborate on exciting new innovative products on the horizon, further enhancing our market presence and driving success,” Nixon says.
She believes in the power of mentoring women, recognizing it as a mutually beneficial relationship that enriches both the mentor and mentee. To better recruit and retain women in the industry, Nixon asserts that fostering relationships among colleagues and engaging with industry organizations is key.
“By creating supportive networks, we can attract more women and provide them with the resources and mentorship they need to thrive,” she notes. “It will also contribute to building a stronger industry for future generations of women.”
Her advice to women entering the PHCP industry is to embrace learning and growth by getting involved with industry groups and associations.
“Seek out mentors who can provide guidance and support,” she says. “Stay curious and informed about industry trends and advancements and develop a sense of resilience. Trust in your journey and take pride in your contributions.”
Nixon says receiving this recognition validates her hard work and dedication while highlighting the contributions of all individuals in the industry. She is grateful for the support of mentors and colleagues whose guidance has been “invaluable.”
Nixon also underscores the importance of her supportive family. “They have all played a crucial role in my life, providing encouragement and balance as I navigate my professional journey,” she says. “They are my greatest source of strength and inspiration.”
Lexie Smith
Co-owner, Sierra Mountain Pipe and Supply
At Sierra Mountain Pipe and Supply, Lexie Smith manages daily operations and builds relationships with industry professionals. She is also the first point of contact for customers who walk in.
“When customers come into our store, they depend on me to have the knowledge and products to complete their tasks,” she explains. “By building my knowledge and networking with industry professionals, I can proudly own and operate a successful wholesale company.”
In 1976, Smith’s grandmother opened the first plumbing supply store in her town.
“I’m extremely proud to be a third-generation owner, running a wholesale plumbing business in the same town,” she says. “She made a lasting impact. Although I never had the chance to work with her, I often hear stories from customers who knew her.”
Today, Sierra Mountain Pipe and Supply is proudly part of the Contractors Association of Truckee Tahoe (CATT), and Smith’s business partner holds a position on the CATT board.
“We work with them to make important connections in our community,” she says. “We are also part of the IMARK buying group, which gives small businesses a competitive edge against large corporations.”
While winning Supplier of the Year in 2022 and 2024 through CATT and traveling to Florida to participate in IMARK’s annual convention are among highlights for Smith, she says the main high point of her career is the trust and respect she gets from customers and the incredible business relationships she’s built. She notes she’s also fortunate to be surrounded by strong women.
“One of my influential mentors was my grandma Sadie; she was the most determined, hardworking and independent woman I ever met,” Smith says. “I use all the incredible memories of her as motivation to become the best version of myself. My mother, Christine, is another extremely loving and independent woman. She inspires me every day.”
When it comes to recruiting and retaining women in the industry, Smith believes charity work, educational events and local sponsorships can help.
“Participation in different facets of the community creates interaction with more diverse populations than traditional recruiting,” she says. “Many women don’t recognize the wide variety of career options within the PHCP industry. The industry needs to be advertised.”
Smith advises other women to challenge themselves and believes knowledge is key to growth and success.
“As a 25-year-old female, I face stereotypical perceptions and challenges,” she notes. “I encourage my female peers not to be intimidated by this male-dominated industry. Through hard work, dedication and ignoring those who believe I have no place here, I proudly run a successful business.”
Smith also says receiving this honor is a reminder of her own immense growth. “It reinforces this is where I am supposed to be,” she notes. “I hope sharing my story inspires other women to become a part of this incredible industry.”
Suzan Sun-Yuan, PE, CDT, LEED AP
Principal-Mechanical, Stantec
Suzan Sun-Yuan has 25 years of experience designing commercial, institutional and educational facilities, as well as central heating and cooling plants. As a technical director, she actively works on project design while collaborating with project engineers to ensure effective system design, construction and the implementation of quality assurance/quality control procedures.
Sun-Yuan also regularly contributes to professional publications and presents at industry events; she is “committed to providing unique technical mentorship and professional development opportunities for engineers at all levels.”
Her entrance into the PHCP industry began with her father, a mechanical engineer. “I vividly remember watching him at work on his drafting board with a Rotring pen and slide rule,” she recalls. “He frequently visited construction sites, bringing along rolls of blueprints. His projects and publications filled him with pride and inspired me.”
Sun-Yuan says her father’s engineering philosophy even altered her perspective on society and the world. “My childhood admiration for him as an engineer significantly influenced my career choice,” she says.
Today, Sun-Yuan is a member of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) and participates in its technical committees.
Additionally, she is a member of the Construction Specifications Institute. Her career highlights include leading several award-winning ASHRAE projects at local, regional and international levels.
To better recruit and retain women and encourage young girls to pursue engineering, Sun-Yuan suggests the industry partner with schools, universities and STEM programs.
“Supporting mentorship programs like Women in Engineering would also be beneficial,” she notes. “Showcase women engineers in leadership and technical roles and encourage open, supportive work environments where women feel valued. Share stories of women in engineering across company platforms to inspire candidates and provide competitive salaries and benefits that address work-life balance.”
Sun-Yuan says she is truly honored and humbled to receive this recognition. “Being recognized as a woman engineer is not only a personal achievement; it reflects years of hard work, problem-solving and innovation,” she says. “This honor also comes with a responsibility — to inspire, mentor and support other women entering the engineering field.”
Charity Tovar
CEO, Charity’s Plumbing Solutions
Charity Tovar is the CEO of Charity’s Plumbing Solutions, a plumbing contractor serving both residential and commercial clients in Arizona. Its services include water heater replacements, whole-home water treatment installations and plumbing repairs to ensure reliable systems and clean water. Tovar is also bilingual and knows American Sign Language, which she considers a personal highlight in her life.
She first entered the PHCP industry after noticing private equity firms were “buying up home-based services” and “turning tradespeople into salespeople.”
“The focus has shifted from customer care to corporate profit,” she explains. “The goal now is to squeeze as much as possible from homeowners to meet quotas or make up the difference on the next call. I don’t agree with that approach.”
One of Tovar’s biggest career highlights was receiving the Next Door Neighborhood Favorite Award in both 2023 and 2024. The company also received the Pillar of the Community Award in 2024 from the local chamber of commerce.
“While having the trust of our community means a lot, I’m also excited we’ve been recognized by the famous social media influencer CY Porter as a business with integrity,” she says.
Tovar has also built a relationship with the Maricopa Community College-South Mountain College-Construction Trade Institute.
“I’d love to start trade fairs in our local elementary and high schools to show students the amazing careers that come from working with your hands,” she says. “I hope our collaboration will kick off in the 2025-2026 school year.”
Overall, Tovar enjoys mentoring teens and says the youth are the future of the industry. “We need to engage them now,” she says. “Raising awareness helps a generation that doesn’t realize how needed they are.”
Tovar also makes it a point to mentor new business owners in the PHCP industry. “I have made several mistakes as a business owner, and I am open to sharing them with new owners who are trying to navigate things themselves,” she says.
To better recruit and retain women, Tovar believes the industry should encourage young girls to pursue the trades.
“These are respected professions that require science and math skills,” she says. “The trades need to step up to preserve and grow their own industries. Women are plumbers, too!”
And Tovar’s advice for women entering the PHCP industry? “Do it! Women are needed,” she says. “Yes, it’s hard work. However, you can find great peace as a skilled tradeswoman.”
Tovar says she was blown away when she first learned she was being recognized for this honor; it means a lot to see her “efforts for change are being noticed.”
As a regional sales manager for Rheem Water Heating, Michelle Watts drives brand awareness and sales for Rheem, Ruud and Friedrich, Rheem’s newest brand. She works closely with a team of agency representatives to ensure the best customer experiences for the company’s wholesale distribution partners and plumbing contractors.
Watts first spent two decades in home appliance manufacturing but eventually sought a change. Seeing Stacey Gearhart thrive at Rheem, she reached out and connected with Jerry Wolens, who, along with Rusty Scaggs, guided her — and “the rest is history.”
The biggest highlight of Watts’ career with Rheem is building relationships with colleagues and customers.
“I love being out in the field with our plumbers!” she says. “I’m passionate about trade education and guest speak at schools to generate interest in plumbing professions. I’m also proud to be a CEU instructor in Ohio for water heating courses.”
Watts values learning from mentors who have paved successful paths in the industry, including Barbara O’Reilly, general manager of Rheem Canada, and Gearhart, who helped Watts find her way into the industry. Having mentored women in both her previous industry and now in plumbing, Watts also believes in paying it forward.
“I’ve had the support of women before me, and it’s important to do the same for others,” she says.
Watts stresses the importance of networking, and her advice to women entering the PHCP industry echoes advice she’s received herself.
“Women should look within their circles and make connections,” she says. “We also need to actively seek out great candidates. Learn everything you can about your products and business and be patient. Give yourself grace, seek mentors, take every class you can and get out in the field with your customers!”
Humbled by this recognition, Watts names several other individuals and agencies who have been an important part of her journey.
“When I first learned of this honor, and of Michael Zago’s wonderful nomination, I cried,” Watts says. “I owe this to our ‘Rheem Team’ and incredible agencies such as New Century Sales, BWA South, Ashworth Train, DuHart and Pulley. I also want to thank Marc van Heesewijk for promoting me to regional manager and being a great mentor!”
Ultimately, Watts hopes readers can learn a powerful lesson from her own experience: “If you’re considering a career change or furthering your education — whether higher education or a trade — just do it! I took the leap into PHCP at 45, earned my MBA at 50 and continue to learn daily. It’s never too late!”
Pamela Accetta Smith is a freelance writer and marketing strategist living in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Prior to starting a writing business, Pamela spent many years as an editor for the B2B industry. Most recently, she worked in the marketing and communications field, creating content and strategy for local small businesses and nonprofit organizations. Pamela can be reached at psmitha68@gmail.com.
