How long have you been at AVANGRID?

I just had my five-year anniversary in January. Prior to joining AVANGRID full time, I was a summer intern for AVANGRID when I was studying at Binghamton University in New York.  I am currently a project manager in the Projects Department in Connecticut, managing projects to increase the reliability of the electric grid.

What does Women’s History Month mean to you?

To me, Women’s History Month symbolizes the struggle women faced to get to where we are today. As women, we can now have our own bank accounts, have careers and even own our own homes. It is hard to comprehend that not too long ago, we didn’t have these rights. Although we have come a long way, there is still a long way to go with eliminating the pay gap, increasing women’s rights and the way people view and respect women across the globe.

Why do you feel you have been so successful in your career? Did you have sponsors or mentors along the way? Who were they and how did they encourage you?

I feel like I have been successful in my career due to hard work, determination and the people who have lifted me up.

My family encouraged me from a young age that I could be whoever I wanted to be and put a strong emphasis on education.  In elementary school, I was fascinated with building Legos and using my electric circuit set. In high school, I did a three-year science research program in which I studied batteries and energy. At the university, I studied engineering and did a global studies minor with a focus on renewable wind energy in France. I always had a huge interest in energy, and my family encouraged all my interests.

At AVANGRID, my first mentor was Michal Bartczak, who was my manager during my internship. Mike taught me that I can achieve anything I set my mind to, through his example of excelling at work and education.

In my current unit, I look up to my manager, Laura Campbell, who came to AVANGRID from Scottish Power. She has had so many amazing experiences, including being in the Scottish Navy and working with power at the Olympics. Laura is driven, focused, organized and fun.

I also admire Elizabeth Gandza, who I work alongside as a project manager. She is an incredible role model who has helped me in my projects and practices.

I could go on and on, listing everyone I work with; there are too many to name at AVANGRID.

How do you feel about the current roles of women in society? How do you see it improving?

“We need to live in a culture that values and respects and looks up to and idolizes women as much as men.”- Emma Watson.

I feel the current role of women in society is improving, but women still have challenges to gain the same respect as men in many circumstances and policies.

I see it improving when all people are treated with equal respect, regardless of gender, race and socioeconomic circumstance.

What do you do in your spare time for fun?

I hike, ski, do yoga, play tennis, swim, knit, paint and play the piano. I also am getting into home projects because I am a first-time home buyer. I am looking forward to getting a dog with my fiancé, Joe Rimkunas. We will be getting a golden retriever who we will welcome to our home in April.