From the middle of America to strategy and management consulting!
My first job after my bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering took me worldwide, working in the US and China, each for a year. I was eager to explore what business looked like internationally and deepen my cultural adaptability. Following this, I returned to the Midwest and my passion for engineering to work in Operations. In this role, I worked across the US, Canada, and Mexico to streamline operations and standardize processes across our 7 facilities. After two years, a position opened in my company's Strategic Planning group. This new role allowed me to see the business at a high level and understand the strategic moves that go into moving a company forward.
After five years of working, the opportunity to join Roland Berger presented itself. I was impressed by each person's passion for their focus areas and their authenticity. The emphasis on work-life balance and the perspective that each person brings something unique to the firm sold me. In the end, I never expected to end up in consulting but I am extremely happy to be in the industry and specifically at Roland Berger.
I develop data-driven insights that shape companies around the world
As a Senior Consultant, I do a lot. From crafting compelling stories to digging into Excel spreadsheets, I exercise all the skills built in my MBA and prior work experience to develop sound recommendations for business leaders. No two days are the same, and that's part of the reason why I love what I do. I can work with a semiconductor company one day and then tear apart an HVAC system the next. My role as a Senior Consultant fulfills my passion for learning, constantly challenging me to learn new skills and exercise old ones, and to think creatively to find a sound solution for our clients.
The people make the job worthwhile!
It's no secret that working in consulting is demanding. There will be long days and long weeks, but it's having a supportive and collaborative team that makes it all easier. I truly could not have gotten through some of my projects without a strong team bond.
Be authentic and know who you are and what you want in a company
There are millions of opportunities out there. Don't rush to make a decision or take a job just because it's the first one offered. Be sure to reflect on what is important to you, your values, and the values you saw demonstrated throughout your interactions with potential companies. Learning can be done on the job, but a good culture and team are hard to find.
Building a global LGBTQ+ employee network and visiting 7 continents
I, along with a team of DEI champions, helped to build a global network for our LGBTQ+ employees that spanned the globe. This was truly a grassroots effort and something that grew my passion for LGBTQ+ inclusion and DEI efforts broadly.
Outside of work, I have been incredibly fortunate to travel to more than 60 countries across 7 continents. As luck would have it, I managed to visit Antarctica in late 2019/early 2020 completing all 7 continents. I enjoy seeing the world and trying new foods!
