Stepping into the Arena
When I first stepped into the world of economic development, I did not do it because I wanted to make history; I did it because I wanted to make a difference. I saw communities in Alabama that were brimming with potential but lacking the infrastructure, support, and visibility they needed to thrive. As a young woman entering what was—and often still is—a male-dominated field, I was no stranger to skepticism. But I believed that economic development was about people, not egos, and I knew women had something powerful to offer in that space.
Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with incredible women who did not wait for permission to lead. They brought grit, compassion, and intelligence to the table, often in rooms where they were the only woman present. Today, I want to share not just my story, but also shine a light on the women who are paving the way in economic development and policy—pioneers, policymakers, and powerhouses who are building stronger, smarter, and more resilient communities.
My Journey: Faith, Focus, and the Fight for Local Progress
My path has never been linear. With four academic degrees and certifications in contracts and economic development, I spent years preparing myself for work I knew would not be easy. I have driven the backroads of Alabama more times than I can count, visiting all 67 counties over 25 times. Whether sitting in on city council meetings, walking through vacant buildings with mayors, or listening to business owners talk about keeping their doors open, I have always believed that real development happens one relationship at a time.
Early on, I learned that being underestimated could be a gift. It gave me the freedom to prove myself through results. When I was part of the “I Shop Local” initiative, some thought it was small potatoes. But supporting our mom-and-pop businesses extended far beyond economics; it protected the identity and heartbeat of our towns. Years later, that initiative still impacts communities across the state.
Through all the awards and recognitions—and I am proud of them, including being twice named a finalist for the Russell Brown Executive Leadership Award—what matters most to me is the legacy we are building. It feels incredible to play a part in the recruiting industry or helping find grant funding. However, equally as important is giving the next generation, especially young girls, a reason to believe they belong in the boardroom and on the frontlines of policy decisions.
Pioneers Who Paved the Way
I wouldn’t be here without the trailblazers who came before me. Women like Deborah Barnhart, former CEO of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, who not only promoted STEM in Alabama but made economic development part of her educational mission.Then there’s Regina Benjamin, our former U.S. Surgeon General. While not a traditional economic developer, she understood the deep connection between health outcomes and economic potential in rural areas. Her work building a health clinic in Bayou La Batre extended beyond medicine by investing in people and the prosperity of the place.
These women taught us that development does not always come with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Sometimes, it looks like mentoring a young professional, defending a community’s needs at the statehouse, or making tough decisions that prioritize long-term impact over short-term praise.
Powerhouses in Our Midst
Today, I am energized by the women who are shaping the next chapter of our field. Leaders like Jessica Sanders, who advocates for sustainable manufacturing in underserved counties, and LaTanya Johnson, who makes workforce training accessible to women reentering the labor market. They are bold, innovative, and unafraid to challenge the status quo.
These powerhouses don’t just talk about inclusion; they live it. They work across racial, political, and geographic divides. They know that Alabama’s future depends on all of us pulling in the same direction, and they lead with a humility that’s rare and refreshing in public life.
What We Still Need to Do
While we have made great strides, we still have work to do. Women remain underrepresented in executive economic development roles across the country. Pay gaps persist. Access to mentorship and sponsorship is still uneven. We need intentional pathways for women to enter and thrive in this space.
But change is happening. More young women are enrolling in business degrees, economic development programs, earning certifications, and raising their hands to lead. Communities with diverse leadership are more creative, more adaptable, and better at solving complex problems.
Building a Future for All
As a mother, a wife to a state legislator, and a servant-leader devoted to Alabama, I believe our best days are still ahead. But we must continue to invest in the people doing the quiet, steady work of progress—especially the women who have refused to wait for an invitation to the table and decided to build their own.
To every woman considering a path in business or economic development: we need you. Your voice, your perspective, your presence. Don’t be afraid to lead with conviction. There’s room for your ideas, your compassion, and your vision. And if you ever need a cheerleader, I will be right here, clapping the loudest.
Let’s keep building. Together.