A Gathering of Women Leaders

I have had the privilege of being on the guest list for the MetroHartford Aliiance "A Gathering of Women Leaders" series of luncheons in Hartford.  The event was last Thursday at The Society Room in Hartford and sponsored by St. Joseph's University.  

The featured speaker this year was Mary Ellen Jones, president of Engine Alliance, and Chair of the Connecticut Airport Authority (CAA).  The CAA will set the direction and strategy for Bradley International Airport and five general aviation airports in the State.  For those of us who live in the towns surrounding Bradley, this is an important initiative for all of us.

Mary Ellen began her career with Pratt & Whitney where she was most recently Vice President of Commercial Engines & Global Services Marketing.  Her journey from speech writer at Pratt & Whitney to global marketing was inspirational for well over 100 women who attended.  

Her message to the women in the room is to find mentors in your life who are willing to help you advance your goals and be willing to try new challenges.

Whe questioned how she could be wife, mother, president of a company, live and travel around the world and become the Chair of the CAA her comment was "If you want to get something done, give it to a busy person".

Sounds familiar. :)