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The 2025 “Women in the Workplace” report from McKinsey & Co. and LeanIn.org reveals a concerning reality: many companies are still overlooking women. Only half are prioritizing women’s career advancement, and that commitment continues to decline. Two in 10 companies place low or no priority on women — rising to three in 10 for women of color — while fewer remote options and scaled-back sponsorship and development programs further limit opportunity.
Yet the data also shows progress is possible. Companies that actively support and advance women see stronger representation and faster gains over time.
PHCPPros continues to examine how these broader workforce trends play out in the plumbing, heating, cooling, and piping (PHCP) industry through conversations with women across diverse roles. Find out what draws them to PHCP, how the industry can continue to evolve, and the advice they offer to others considering similar careers.
With this in mind, we are proud to celebrate our 2026 Women in PHCP honorees — 13 remarkable individuals who are making a difference, breaking barriers, and helping shape the future of our industry!
The following are synopses of honorees’ answers to a series of identical questions. Responses have been edited for brevity and clarity.
Taylor Alberts Product Manager – Service Parts & Accessories, Bradford White Corp.
Alberts supports the PHCP industry by ensuring the long-term serviceability of water heating products. Her responsibilities include managing product lifecycles, aligning cross-functional teams, maintaining regulatory compliance, and developing service strategies that support contractors, distributors, and service professionals in the field while upholding quality, reliability, and customer trust.
During her junior year of high school, Alberts entered the PHCP industry through engineering design as a co-op at Bradford White, where she quickly discovered how impactful and collaborative the work could be. She was drawn to the industry’s technical challenges, problem-solving nature, and, most importantly, the people.
“The relationships, mentorship, and sense of purpose kept me engaged, and I’ve continued to grow my career within PHCP ever since,” she says.
Her career highlights include contributing to numerous successful product launches and being promoted to engineering manager, where she led a diverse team of designers, engineers, and technical writers. She also had the opportunity to speak at Autodesk University on PLM and PDM implementation. Most recently, being promoted to her current role represents a milestone in her career growth.
Alberts is actively involved with several organizations, including the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) and the Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI). She also supports workforce development through Explore the Trades initiatives and serves as a community lead for the Bradford White Women’s Network.
While Alberts has not had a formal female mentor, she credits the guidance of many leaders and colleagues throughout her career. She mentors women both within PHCP and beyond by offering career guidance, technical support, and leadership development, with a focus on confidence and skill growth.
Alberts believes the industry can better recruit and retain women by increasing early exposure through schools and trade programs, highlighting visible female role models, and offering clear career pathways.
“Retention improves when companies invest in mentorship, inclusive cultures, leadership development, and flexible policies that support long-term growth and work-life balance,” she says.
Her advice to women entering the PHCP industry is to stay curious, ask questions, and not underestimate the value of their perspective.
“The PHCP industry offers long-term, meaningful careers with opportunities to grow technically and as a leader,” she says. “Seek out mentors, build relationships, and most importantly, advocate for yourself!”
Alberts adds that the unwavering support of her friends, family, and husband of nearly 20 years has been essential to her journey.
“There have been many difficult days, and without his constant encouragement, belief in me, and steady positivity, I may have walked away long ago,” she says. “Their support gives me strength, perspective, and the resilience to keep going, even when the path feels challenging.”
Sophie Ashley HVAC Designer, Energy Vanguard
Ashley provides HVAC design for residential new construction at Energy Vanguard, a company specializing in high-performance homes with above-code insulation and air tightness levels. She performs load calculations, sizes equipment (usually cold-climate heat pumps) and designs duct, ventilation and dehumidification systems.
She began her career as a carpenter and builder, learning the trade from her father. As her building practices improved with tighter envelopes and more precise detailing, she recognized the importance of mechanical systems.
“Truly, the enclosure and mechanical systems need to work together to create a durable, comfortable, and healthy home,” she says. “I've been in HVAC for three years now, and it's been very rewarding.”
A career highlight for Ashley has been the constant opportunity to learn.
“There is always new equipment coming out, and it’s such a varied field that you never get bored,” she says. “Another highlight is the people I’ve met. I’ve felt welcomed, mentored, and challenged by colleagues and industry leaders. My biggest joy is going onsite to see a design implemented.”
Kimberly Llewellyn of Blue Rabbit Consulting has been an instrumental mentor to Ashley, providing advice, introductions and role modeling.
“Mentors are important regardless of gender, but it is especially meaningful to look up to another woman. It gives me confidence,” says Ashley.
Ashley provides mentor-style guidance to new Energy Vanguard employees and has spoken at two industry conferences. She hopes seeing women teach technical topics breaks barriers and encourages younger women to pursue careers in the trades.
She believes we can better recruit and retain women to PHCP by making the industry better for all workers.
“Encouraging folks to use tools correctly, wear PPE, and use a dolly for heavy lifting helps all of our bodies last longer,” says Ashley. “It’s not because we are women that we need this — it’s just best practice. Benefits and paid parental leave are also great for everyone.”
Her advice for women entering the PHCP industry is to find a mentor and gain hands-on experience.
“Connect with other women, introduce yourself, and don’t be intimidated. Get good at what you do. Don’t stay behind a desk — get in the field,” she says. “Learn the technical aspects of your trade. This has been an incredibly rewarding field for me, and it can be for you too. It’s tangible, and you’ll learn skills useful for your own home as well.”
Stephanie Blazek Executive Director, PHCC of North Carolina
As executive director of PHCC of North Carolina, Blazek supports plumbing and HVAC contractors through education, workforce development, advocacy, and community engagement.
“Our role is to connect members with high-quality education, trusted partners, and each other so they can remain professional, competitive, and prepared as the industry evolves,” she says.
Blazek was drawn to PHCC by its people — business owners who care deeply about their teams, customers, and craft — and by the industry’s blend of problem-solving, service, and entrepreneurship. Over her career, she has grown apprenticeship participation and strengthened local chapters.
“Seeing businesses grow, employees advance, and communities benefit is the most rewarding part of my work,” she says.
Blazek serves on PHCC National’s board of directors, including leadership roles within the Association Executives Council, and participates on the Apprentice Advisory Board and Government Relations Committee. Through these positions, she collaborates with state and national leaders to strengthen education, advocacy, and workforce initiatives.
She credits strong mentors inside and outside the industry with shaping her leadership and communication, including PHCC of GA’s Ellen Whitaker, PHCC of NJ’s Nicole Urizzo and PHCC of VA’s Susan Milhoane. She also mentors others through leadership programs, one-on-one coaching, and informal guidance.
“I’m passionate about helping people recognize their skills, step into leadership with confidence, and see the career paths available in the trades,” she says.
Blazek believes the industry can attract and retain more women by highlighting growth, flexible career paths and visible female leadership. She also advises women entering the industry to not underestimate the value of their skills and perspective
“Seek mentors, ask questions, and don’t wait to be invited to the table — this industry rewards initiative, relationships, and long-term commitment,” she says.
Outside work, Blazek is a wife and mother of two daughters, which informs her leadership and long-term decision-making.
“Family has reinforced my belief in the importance of strong businesses, skilled trades, and supportive communities,” she says.
Her work in the industry also inspired her husband to pursue a career in HVAC, which she says is one of the best decisions their family has made.
Leah Bosma
Plumbing Engineer, SmithGroup
In her role at SmithGroup, Bosma collaborates with architectural and engineering teams to design, analyze, and specify high-performing plumbing systems for a range of building types, including civic, cultural, higher education, healthcare, workplace, and science and technology facilities. She helps ensure plumbing solutions meet code requirements while supporting performance, safety, and sustainability goals.
Bosma was drawn to the PHCP industry by her interest in problem solving, building systems, and creating solutions that directly impact how people experience the built environment.
“The more I learned about this industry’s complexity and continual opportunities for growth, the more I knew it was the right fit for me,” she says.
One of her most meaningful career milestones has been growing from someone with limited plumbing system knowledge into a technical resource within her team.
“Seeing my technical growth, taking on greater responsibility, and earning the trust of colleagues has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career,” says Bosma.
Bosma is a member of the American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE), where she serves as the young professional liaison for the Eastern Michigan Chapter. She credits the many women mechanical engineers at SmithGroup with helping guide her career and modeling confidence, professionalism, and resilience.
“While the path is not always easy, I am fortunate to learn from a strong group of women who lead by example and demonstrate the importance of advocating for yourself,” she says.
Inspired by that mentorship, Bosma is committed to supporting the next generation of women engineers. She believes the industry can better recruit and retain women by introducing STEM concepts early and increasing awareness of career opportunities. Bosma volunteers through SmithGroup’s employee-led Exploring Post program, leading hands-on workshops that expose students to a variety of STEM career paths.
Bosma encourages women entering the PHCP industry to trust their abilities and speak up.
“Most importantly, remember that you belong in this industry and your perspective strengthens it,” she says.
Joanna Carter President, Flex-Hose Co.
For more than 26 years, Carter has had the privilege of growing alongside a tremendous team at Flex-Hose Co. As president, she oversees daily operations — spanning everything from sales to production — while working closely with the CEO on global business development.
“To me, this role goes far beyond the title; it is about ensuring that we honor our hard-earned reputation in this industry every single day,” says Carter.
She entered the PHCP industry by accident. Fresh out of college, Carter knew little about the field and was simply looking for a job when she joined Flex-Hose, hired by CEO Phil Argersinger.
“While I entered by chance, I stayed by choice,” she says. “I found that this industry is a community—a place where handshake relationships are valued and integrity is the standard. It's become my home.”
While Carter is proud of the strategic work she has done — including assisting with a partner buyout, acquisition planning, and managing critical facility relocations — her greatest accomplishment is cultural.
“I am most proud to lead a tremendous team that deeply believes in the importance of American-made products, quality, and trust,” she says.
Carter does not rely on a single mentor. Instead, she turns to a trusted group of colleagues — both women and men — for advice, feedback, and support. She notes that the PHCP community is generous about helping one another.
Carter also mentors women new to manufacturing, guiding them through the nuances of the job. Having received significant support when she started, she believes it is important to pass that knowledge and experience on to the next generation.
Carter maintains the industry can better recruit and retain women by reaching students earlier. She believes that partnering with STEM initiatives and local schools helps show young women that the PHCP industry involves high-tech innovation, not just manual labor.
“We see the disconnect firsthand when visiting local high schools,” says Carter. “Students are consistently surprised by the opportunities available — they simply didn’t know a career like this existed.”
Carter encourages women entering the PHCP industry to never stop learning.
“Ask as many questions as you can and tap into the wealth of knowledge around you,” she says. “My biggest piece of practical advice: pick up the phone. Real conversations build the strongest bridges.”
Carter says she is truly surprised and deeply honored to receive this recognition, especially given the caliber of successful women around her in the industry.
“What makes this honor even more meaningful is that my nomination came from Ernie Coutermarsh of F.W. Webb,” she emphasizes. “Ernie is a legend in the PHCP community, and to be recognized by him personally means the world to me.”
Outside of work, Carter is a mother of two sons in college. She hopes they find careers they are passionate about, learn to balance ambition with family life, and discover that the PHCP industry can offer a home for them as well.
Jennifer Dorsey Inside Sales Manager, Marsh & Moore
Dorsey serves as the “right hand” to upper management at Marsh & Moore, helping to oversee the entire sales administration process. She plays an integral role in developing marketing and sales strategies, monitoring promotions and price changes, and ensuring alignment between inside and outside sales teams — keeping everyone "going in the right direction,”
Dorsey says her passion for the trades drew her to the PHCP industry.
“I admire the men and women in this field who give their all every day to make a difference,” she explains.
Dorsey began her career in 1996 on the contractor side working in purchasing, where she learned the ins and outs of the construction process. Over time, she transitioned to the manufacturer’s rep side of the business.
Her career highlights reflect her dedication and impact in the industry. She was named Milwaukee Tool Inside Salesperson of the Year multiple times (2014, 2015, 2017, and 2018) and received the Milwaukee Tool Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022. In 2023, the Milwaukee Tool Inside Salesperson of the Year award was renamed “The Jenn Dorsey Award” in her honor.
Dorsey is actively connected to industry groups, including ASPE and the Association of Independent Manufacturers Representatives (AIM/R) through Marsh & Moore, as well as American Supply Association (ASA) Women in Industry and Southern Wholesalers Association (SWA) Women in Leadership. She also credits Jennifer Rodriguez, CPMR, executive vice president at Marsh & Moore, as a key mentor in her career.
Dorsey says the industry can better recruit and retain women by making sure pay is based on merit, not gender. And her advice for women entering the PHCP industry? Be confident.
“Get involved and build relationships, stay committed to listening and learning, and remain humble while proving you can do the job,” she says.
Dorsey and her husband, Brian, have a “fur baby,” Jackson, and a 12-year-old daughter, Ellis.
“She keeps us super busy as a talented All-Star Cheerleader — I’m a proud cheer mom,” Dorsey says.
Kelly Downes, PE Associate, Arup
Downes is a plumbing and fire protection engineer at Arup and a leader within its data center team. She oversees design delivery on projects and, as an accredited project manager, guides multidisciplinary teams from concept through completion. Downes also helps manage resourcing for Arup’s plumbing group across the East geography and supports hiring, recruiting many graduate engineers and interns.
Her father a general contractor, Downes grew up in the construction industry.
“I was always fascinated by the blueprints he reviewed at our kitchen table,” she says. “The real spark came during ‘Take Your Daughter to Work Day,’ when I helped lay bricks, mixed concrete, and watched him bring a design from paper to reality. It gave me a firsthand look at the pride and craftsmanship behind every project.”
The most rewarding part of Downes’ career is seeing projects progress from concept through construction to opening. Notable highlights include fit-out projects within the World Trade Center and the Oculus in New York City, as well as the renovation of the Hopkins Center for the Arts at Dartmouth.
Downes is a member of the New York City ASPE chapter. She credits several women in the industry for shaping her growth: Bella Treygar taught her fire suppression and alarm fundamentals, Deanna Schmidt inspired her pursuit of leadership, and Anna Gradishar supported her transition into project management.
“Supporting the growth of younger engineers is one of the most meaningful parts of my role,” she says. “Whether guiding technical development, offering career advice, or creating opportunities to lead, it’s a responsibility I take seriously…I advise younger female engineers at Arup to trust in their technical expertise and not hesitate to speak with confidence.”
Downes believes the industry can better recruit and retain women by introducing plumbing engineering early, offering mentorship, and celebrating women in leadership.
“Visible representation reinforces that women belong in this industry, can thrive in it, and have meaningful opportunities to lead and succeed,” she says.
Being recognized in the field is deeply meaningful to Downes, as it reflects her hard work and the guidance of mentors.
“I’m especially grateful for my current mentor, Robb, whose advocacy has been instrumental in my growth,” she says.
Outside of work, Downes’ proudest role is being an aunt to Delaney and Ronan. Watching Delaney grow has made her own career feel even more meaningful, and she hopes her path shows that women can thrive in engineering and construction.
Angie Gomez Vice President and General Manager of RPD Rheem Parts Division, Rheem Manufacturing
Gomez leads the distribution of replacement parts and accessories for Rheem Manufacturing’s global family of brands. It is her responsibility to ensure that HVAC and plumbing professionals have access to Rheem ProTech OEM Genuine Factory Authorized Parts and a comprehensive selection of installation supplies, all delivered with a strong focus on customer service and operational excellence.
Gomez is a first-generation college graduate who entered school without a defined career path. She eventually joined General Electric, where she gained exposure to customer service, sales, product management, and Lean Six Sigma across industries.
“Through these experiences, I realized my ideal role was one that made a difference in people’s lives,” says Gomez. “At Rheem, ensuring families had hot water and reliable climate control, especially for the elderly or medically vulnerable, made the work deeply motivating and impactful.”
Some of her proudest career highlights include leading the transformation and growth of Rheem’s Parts Division, building high-performance, inclusive teams, and expanding the company’s reach through new product lines and markets.
“In my more than 25 years across companies like GE, United Technologies, and Rheem, I’ve been fortunate to lead P&L organizations, break down silos, and deliver results while staying true to a people-first, customer-focused leadership approach,” says Gomez.
Deeply invested in mentoring her teammates and others across the industry so they can thrive, Gomez leads with empathy, often drawing on her own experiences to share lessons learned and how she overcame them.
“I always encourage open and direct dialogue with my team so we can continue working through processes and challenges to better serve our customers and collaborate more seamlessly,” she explains.
Gomez says the industry can better recruit and retain women by making leadership paths visible, investing in mentorship and sponsorship, and fostering flexible workplaces where diverse voices (in thought, background and experience) are valued.
“Creating cultures that prioritize development, work-life balance, and purpose-driven work helps women see long-term opportunity,” she says. “When organizations actively listen, remove barriers, and empower women to lead, they can strengthen the entire industry.”
Gomez advises women entering the PHCP industry to work hard, and say “yes” to opportunities, even if they don’t feel fully ready. She emphasizes the importance of being authentic and humble while leaning into one’s strengths and listening carefully to others’ perspectives.
“I’m proud to represent Rheem and the many women who are driving progress in the PHCP industry,” she says. “I would like to see the industry creating more opportunities for others like me while building a more inclusive future for our industry.”
As an apprentice plumber, Mooney’s role is to learn as much as possible each day through hands-on experience and consistent practice. With the guidance of her foreman, Mooney has developed confidence in reading plans, installing cast iron systems, soldering, and completing a wide range of rough-in tasks.
“I am currently focused on expanding my knowledge of venting systems to further strengthen my technical skill set,” she says.
Plumbing emerged as Mooney’s top career recommendation on her high school aptitude assessment — a result she initially laughed off due to her perception of the field as male-dominated. Still, she found herself drawn to jobsites, imagining the fulfillment of hands-on work and staying active throughout the day. When the COVID-19 pandemic prompted a period of reflection, Mooney decided to pursue the trade — and has loved her career ever since.
Mooney says one of her career highlights has been the opportunity to continually develop new skills at Quality Plumbing. She is currently working on a cast iron project, where she has gained hands-on experience with complex systems and the precision required for accurate measurements.
Mooney believes that creating an inclusive work environment for the trades begins with shifting the narrative of outdated stereotypes. It’s critical, she notes, to present PHCP early on as skilled, respectable professions open to all genders.
“While trade-focused advertising has made meaningful progress in representing women, sustained change requires direct one-on-one contact through partnering with the public education system and its counselors,” says Mooney. “Increased participation by women further accelerates the dismantling of these predetermined trade expectations.”
Mooney advises women entering the PHCP industry to trust their abilities and advocate for themselves. While there may be moments when it feels easier to step back or allow someone more experienced to take over, she says confidence and capability are built by doing the work firsthand.
“I am proud to contribute to a profession that values skill, commitment, and hard work above stereotypes, and I hope this recognition encourages more women to see the trades as a viable and rewarding career path,” she says.
Outside of work, Mooney enjoys hiking, camping, kayaking, and spending time outdoors whenever possible. She is also preparing to begin her long-held personal goal of learning to ride a motorcycle.
Marilyn Morgan Senior Product Manager, NIBCO
At NIBCO, Morgan oversees new product development, product and brand strategy, marketing materials, and business and financial management.
She entered the PHCP industry through roles at Kohler Co. and Elkay. Her career highlights include the development of the Kohler Devonshire faucet, the launch of several decorative stainless-steel sinks under the Elkay brand, and, most significantly, the development and launch of a press product portfolio for NIBCO.
Morgan actively provides guidance to industry peers and fellow NIBCO employees. She believes outreach to college and trade school students is key to attracting more women to the industry.
Her advice to women entering PHCP mirrors the guidance she would offer in any field: “Love what you do, work hard every day, and be the best person you can be.”
Honored to be recognized by the industry, Morgan reflects back on the educational journey that got her to where she is today.
“I am proud of the fact that I worked my way through college and fully paid for both my Bachelor of Science degree and MBA from the great University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign,” she says.
Leah Simmons
VP of Marketing, Johnstone Supply of the Upper Midwest
As the VP of marketing for Johnstone Supply’s group of stores from Wisconsin to Wyoming, Simmons works with her team to help manage promotions and brand cohesion. She also works directly with contractor partners to help them manage successful marketing initiatives and leverage the industry tools available through Johnstone Supply’s equipment dealer programs.
“I like to think we work like a little ad agency within a wholesale house!” Simmons says.
Simmons says her career in the industry started with a “fluke” when she was searching for something more stable than her graphic design job at a small-town newspaper. She found an ad for an in-house designer and marketing role, had a great interview, and quickly fell in love with the industry and the contractors she worked with each day.
Johnstone Supply Brand Manager Mary Schilling was a “huge mentor” for Simmons when she began in the industry.
“It was so important to have a woman's perspective and support when I first started out,” Simmons says. “Mary did so much to give me resources and push me outside of my comfort zone.”
Simmons herself mentors a fifth grader through the local school system.
“It's only half an hour a week, but I know that it’s time well spent to build a bond with a kid who needs stability and encouragement from a non-family adult,” she says.
Career highlights for Simmons include growing her department to its current team of four designers and customer support members to better serve contractors. She also feels that watching customers succeed is the most rewarding aspect of her career.
“Nothing feels better than watching someone retire, hand off their business to the next generation, or open a second location and knowing you had even a small part of that success,” she says.
When it comes to recruiting and retaining women, Simmons says representation and visibility are key — which is a message she drives home to contractors when crafting hiring campaigns.
“‘How many of your ads feature women?’ ‘Are you placing ads in places women will see them?’ Women are such a massive, untapped talent stream for the PHCP industry, and the best way to find those women is to give them a chance to see themselves in these roles,” she says.
Simmons advises women entering the PHCP industry to always maintain their integrity.
“For many family-run HVAC companies, their business is their life's work and legacy,” she says. “Being trusted to be part of that is an honor I never take lightly. Be honest and you'll find nothing but respect in this field.
“Take it from someone covered in tattoos and with bright pink hair, there truly is a place for everyone in this industry as long as you want to work hard and play hard,” she says.
When she’s not working, Simmons enjoys writing fiction and screenwriting, with her third novel set to be released in April.
Julie Storey President, Boshart Industries
Storey provides strategic direction and leadership across all aspects of Boshart Industries, a master distributor and manufacturer serving North and Central America.
“I entered the industry unaware of PHCP, accepting an inside sales role,” she says. “Over time, I’ve grown into leadership that balances strategy with relationships and fosters a culture rooted in respect, accountability, and continuous learning.”
What initially drew Storey to the PHCP industry — and what kept her there — was its people.
“I quickly realized this industry values collaboration, integrity, and curiosity, and I’ve been fortunate to make a lifelong career from it,” she says.
Throughout her 34-year career, Storey progressed through multiple roles and helped guide Boshart through periods of growth and change. Highlights include building strong teams, mentoring future leaders, and watching people thrive.
She serves on the board of directors for the Canadian Institute of Plumbing & Heating (CIPH) and participates in ASA, roles she says keep her connected to industry peers, trends, and best practices. Being part of women’s networks within these groups has allowed her to gain insight and encouragement from inspiring leaders and speakers, shaping how she approaches challenges and mentors others.
“Mentoring is about supporting growth and helping people build confidence,” she says. “I try to guide without assuming I have all the answers and encourage others to see that they can succeed in this industry.”
Looking ahead, Storey believes the PHCP industry can continue to strengthen its workforce by increasing the visibility of women leaders, expanding mentorship opportunities, and offering clear career pathways.
She encourages women entering PHCP to approach their careers with confidence and curiosity.
“Remember, PHCP is relationship-driven—invest in your network, stay visible, and never underestimate the value you bring,” says Storey.
Merissa Thorp
Showroom Manager, Waterhouse Bath & Kitchen Studio
Thorp oversees daily operations at Waterhouse Bath & Kitchen Studio while driving sales and delivering an exceptional customer experience. She manages complex customer projects, maintains strong vendor and trade relationships, works closely with accounting and the warehouse to ensure accuracy, and completes hands-on showroom projects alongside her team.
Thorp entered the PHCP industry because she was drawn to Waterhouse’s strong culture and reputation within the community.
“I’ve always enjoyed working with people, and the showroom allows me to combine relationship-building with design,” she says. “Helping customers choose the ‘jewelry’ of their kitchen and bath makes the work creative, personal, and rewarding.”
Thorp moved from the paint industry into plumbing, and one of her biggest career highlights has been transitioning into an entirely different field— learning new products, terminology, and customer needs from the ground up. Another key highlight has been growing showroom sales by more than 50% in the past year.
Surrounded by strong women who mentor and influence her every day, Thorp says her colleagues consistently encourage her and challenge her to grow. She enjoys mentoring and supporting the women around her as well, both within the industry and beyond.
“Whether it’s offering motivation, encouragement, or hands-on coaching, I’m passionate about helping women build confidence in their skills and professional growth,” says Thorp.
She believes a more inclusive and supportive culture where women feel respected and valued is key to higher recruitment and retention, with equal access to training being an essential component.
“When companies actively foster a positive environment and normalize women thriving in technical and sales roles, it not only attracts more women but also encourages them to build long-term, successful careers in the industry.”
Thorp advises women entering the PHCP industry to seek out companies that support growth and development.
“Be confident in your abilities, even if you’re learning something new, and don’t be afraid to ask questions,” she adds.
Thorp would like to thank her husband and family for their constant support throughout her career journey.
“From encouraging me when I changed industries to understanding the long hours, late nights, and networking events, they have always stood behind me,” she says. “Their support, patience, and belief in me have made it possible to pursue growth and new opportunities with confidence.”
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 [email protected].
