Describe your current role at your company.
My current role is director of autogas service, which involves the installation and startup of autogas facilities across the country. I am also the lead customer service representative for Superior Energy Systems (SES), which means that most of the autogas service calls come to me. I have close relationships with nearly all our autogas customers, and they know they can rely on me for troubleshooting and equipment questions.
How did you get your start in the propane industry?
I came to SES from another company where I was installing commercial sprinkler systems for fire prevention. I was initially hired as a pipe fitter and my job has continued to evolve from there. I have transitioned from equipment installations to sales and customer service and now lead our autogas service team.
What do you think would surprise someone about the job you do?
I think most people would be surprised to see a female in my position, as the propane service industry is predominately male. But Superior has given me many opportunities to grow and learn in the industry. I think another thing that might surprise people is the amount of travel that my job entails; I am on the road over 80% of the time, covering all 50 states and Canada.
What advice do you have for someone coming into the industry?
I would encourage anyone coming into the industry to have an open mind and try to learn as much as possible from the mentors in front of you. I started at the very bottom at Superior, and my attention to detail and desire to learn has helped me advance my career in propane.
Who has/have been the strongest influences in your career to date?
The strongest influences on my career in the propane industry are those on my team at Superior. They keep me motivated and focused by watching how hard they each work on their specific tasks. I genuinely enjoy working alongside them and teaching them new things while at the same time learning from them. I have been lucky to work with some really talented people.
How would you describe your leadership style, and how do you believe it contributes to the success of your team and organization within the propane industry?
I would say my leadership style is direct. I believe in setting clear expectations and encouraging those around me to empower themselves through education. I am very goal-oriented and believe that follow-through is the biggest asset someone can have in a customer service role.
What or who motivates you?
Knowledge is a big motivator for me. I will go out of my way to find answers for customers, even when it is outside of my comfort zone. I believe I have the ability to make a meaningful impact on the industry through educating customers on propane and specifically autogas.
How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance while pursuing your goals and ambitions within the demanding and dynamic environment of the propane business?
My job is certainly demanding as I am on the road much of the time, and I am just a phone call away from most of my customers who are located all over North America. However, I love to travel and the great outdoors. Exploring new places brings me happiness, and I attempt to disconnect from the work world every few months, which helps revive me in my work world.
What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received?
I would say any compliment from a frustrated customer whom I have been able to help is big for me. I am a people pleaser by nature, which isn’t always good in customer service roles, but it drives me to do the best I can to offer solutions. I take any compliment I receive personally.
