What have you accomplished in your professional life/career since your 40 Under 40 selection?
It is hard to believe that it has been 17 years since I was recognized in the 40 Under 40 class of 2003. Baker Tilly continues to be a great firm for me. Excellent client service has always been a priority; it is especially rewarding to help clients reach their goals. People development is another passion of mine. It makes me proud to support colleagues and watch them exceed even their own expectations.
In June, I succeeded my long-time mentor as managing partner for Baker Tilly’s Wisconsin market. After serving in many leadership roles within the firm and in our community, I look forward to providing strategic direction, fostering team development and engagement, and driving growth in this expanded capacity.
What accomplishments, milestones, or endeavors have you attained in your personal life since your 40 Under 40 selection?
My personal life revolves around my family. Our children were always very active in sports and school activities, which meant that my husband, Kevin, and I were also very involved in those activities and spent much of our time on the sidelines. Seeing our children, Tanner and Jordan, grow to both become successful students at UW–Madison has been very rewarding.
Now empty nesters, my husband and I are refocusing on living a healthy lifestyle and giving back to our community.
If you were to “do it all over again,” what (if anything) would you do differently throughout your career?
It has been a great ride and truly not much would change if I had the opportunity to do it all over again. If I were to give advice to my younger self, it would be to take more time to pause and open my mind. Invest in learning and make thoughtful decisions. Prioritizing balance creates a better personal roadmap, leading you to be more successful and fulfilled.
What is something that you have a new passion for since the time of your induction — either professionally or personally?
Professionally, I find technology advancements amazing. They have transformed everything from how we receive information to how we live. I truly believe Baker Tilly has sizeable opportunities that exist for both our clients and our people. As a firm, we actively embrace these advancements, which is critical to remain relevant in today’s world. I have been very active in expanding our firm’s use of technology.
On a personal level, I am very interested in health and wellness. It is often what you will find me reading about in my spare time. I look forward to continuing to incorporate new strategies into my everyday life.
Based on your experience, do you have any advice for today’s young professionals (under 40)?
Take the initiative to gain exposure to multiple facets within your company, career, or field. Even though I fulfilled a specific role, I have always endeavored to deepen my knowledge of business concepts and the overall operations of my organization. Involvement in special projects and active learning about services and industries are valuable experiences. Be curious. It will be part of your success and enable you to become a true advisor to those around you. This often is the “fun” part of your career journey.
Utilize your mentors/coaches. I was fortunate enough to have three great coaches — two of Baker Tilly’s leaders and my dad. Each of them has challenged me, delivered tough messages that made me better, and encouraged me. When I needed them, they always made time for me. Certainly, there were times when I should have engaged them more. Use the expertise and guidance of your mentors, co-workers, family, and friends. They may have a fresh way of looking at an issue, problem, or situation that can be truly beneficial.
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