At my core, I’m a connector. I genuinely enjoy getting to know people, not just for immediate opportunities, but to build authentic, long-term relationships. I believe that understanding client needs starts with curiosity and empathy. I take the time to listen deeply, ask thoughtful questions, and understand not just the surface-level goals but the underlying challenges and motivations.

This approach allows me to bring the right people and ideas together in ways that create meaningful impact. It’s not about having a full Rolodex or name-dropping; it’s about cultivating trust and insight so that when the right moment arises, I can offer solutions that are both strategic and human-centered. Success is when a client feels truly seen and supported, and when the solution we deliver reflects that understanding.

Service has always been a part of my DNA. I come from a long line of teachers and preachers, so the value of giving back to the community was instilled in me early on. That foundation inspired my involvement in professional organizations. 

As a mid-career Black female engineer, I recognized that my perspective could bring much-needed insight to conversations at the local, state, and national levels. That’s why I’ve remained actively engaged with the American Water Works Association and the Water Environment Federation. Over time, my focus has evolved from participation to leadership, particularly in workforce development. 

One gap I saw clearly was the lack of Black representation in the water sector, especially as we face the looming “silver tsunami” of retirements. We weren’t doing enough to tap into new, diverse talent pools. In response, I co-founded the Black Water Professionals Alliance (BWPA). Our mission is to empower Black professionals in the industry, attract new talent from the Black community, and educate consumers to be more informed and engaged. 

For me, contributing beyond the day-to-day isn’t optional; it’s essential. It’s how we build a more inclusive, resilient, and forward-looking water industry. 

Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who shaped my growth, but I often had to seek them out. That experience made me acutely aware of how many emerging leaders, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, struggle to access the guidance and support they need to thrive.

As I advanced in my career, I realized that one-on-one mentorship, while valuable, wasn’t scalable enough to meet the growing demand. I wanted to create something more sustainable and accessible. That’s what led me to found SISTEM, a national network of Black women in the water and green industries. Since its launch in 2021, SISTEM has grown to over 200 members. We meet monthly in a virtual space to share knowledge, uplift one another, and collectively navigate the challenges of our field. The feedback has been incredibly moving. Members have told me that this community has helped them stay in the industry despite systemic barriers.

In 2024, I was honored to receive the WEF Mentorship Award, which recognizes individuals who provide intellectual, social, and personal support to their mentees. What made it especially meaningful was that I was nominated by a diverse group of mentees, including a senior white male executive I partnered with to lead company-wide conversations on allyship following the murder of George Floyd.

For me, empowering others means creating space, sharing tools, and amplifying voices that are too often left out of the room. It’s about building a more diverse, resilient, and inclusive water industry, one where everyone has the opportunity to lead and succeed.

What drew me to GFT was the rare combination of technical excellence, people-first culture, and a bold, future-focused mission. As someone who has spent my entire career in consulting, I was looking for a place where my experience in technical design, project management, and strategic planning could be fully integrated with my passion for team development, communication, and industry collaboration. GFT offered exactly that.

From day one, I felt seen and valued, not just for my skills, but for the perspective I bring. GFT’s purpose of transforming the Infrastructure of Life deeply resonates with my own belief that infrastructure is about more than just systems; it’s about people and resilience. The firm’s mission to be the most people-centric AEC company in North America aligns with my commitment to mentoring, inclusion, and building strong, empowered teams.

I’ve especially connected with GFT’s values of being ‘All In,’ ‘Celebrating Curiosity,’ and ‘Shaping the Outcome.’ These principles mirror how I lead: by building trust, encouraging innovation, and advocating for work that is both meaningful and impactful. I take pride in understanding what drives my team members and helping them find opportunities that align with their passions. When we bring that energy to our clients, we don’t just deliver projects; we shape stronger communities and a healthier planet. That’s the kind of legacy I want to be part of.

I’ve supported complex infrastructure programs integrating water, wastewater, energy, and utilities —core to data center development— along with planning, siting, and regulatory coordination for large, high-demand facilities. What excites me is the blend of speed, technical complexity, and resilience, which aligns well with GFT’s multidisciplinary approach.

GFT brings strong expertise in utility systems, program management, and regulatory navigation, allowing us to support clients from early planning through delivery and long-term performance. Our integrated, lifecycle approach helps balance growth with reliability, sustainability, and community needs, positioning us as a trusted long-term partner in this evolving market.

Balance is essential to leading with clarity and purpose, especially in a sector as vital as water. For me, that balance comes from the people and passions that ground and uplift me. My family — my husband, children, parents, siblings, nieces, and nephews — is my foundation. They remind me daily of what truly matters and keep me centered in gratitude.

I’m also energized by my friendships, many of which span decades. These relationships are a constant source of joy and perspective. Travel and food are two of my greatest passions. I love experiencing new cultures through their cuisine. Whether it’s a bustling street market or a quiet family-run restaurant, those moments expand my soul and spark my creativity.

But the deepest source of inspiration for me is my faith and my church community. I was raised in the church founded by my great-grandfather in West Philadelphia, and my family remains a constant to this day. Through the music ministry, I’ve had the profound honor of singing alongside my grandmother, a renowned alto whose voice and spirit shaped my own. She taught me that my voice is a gift meant to uplift others, and I carry that lesson with me in everything I do.

Each Sunday, I’m renewed by the Word of God and by serving alongside others who are committed to making a difference. That spiritual grounding gives me the strength, optimism, and intention I need to lead with compassion and vision throughout the week.