International Women’s Day 2020: Technician Spotlight

This International Women’s Day, we salute all the women and women’s allies in our industry by honoring the day’s mantra: an equal world is an enabled world. Our relocation support services are performed by a network of professional technicians throughout North America. We’d like to celebrate the achievements of the incredibly hard-working and dynamic female service providers among them forging their own path in an otherwise male-dominated line of work with this technician spotlight.

Meet Jen from Pennsylvania!

MSS: How did you get into this business?

Jen: My now husband owned his own moving company when we met 13 years ago. In 2008 we made the transition into third party work. We started with one truck and worked together for years. Eventually, as our company grew we invested into more service vehicles and hired more contractors. Present day we have five service vehicles and two locations. We are continuously  building our company and work hard year round to be as successful as we are today.

MSS: How do you feel about being a woman in a predominantly male industry?

Jen: Unfortunately, it is still a reality that women face challenges in the workplace. Many years ago, I would say the challenge was greater. Movers and transferees were questioning my capabilities. But as trends change and the world evolves, I don’t get much hassle or questions. I have always stood my ground and always did my job the same way regardless of what anyone thought I was capable of. There are tons of movers and transferees that give me a lot of credit. It’s not too often you see a woman running a third party crew and they compliment us for the work we do.

MSS: Have you ever faced any prejudice on the job because of your gender?

Jen: Yes I do but it is mostly when I need to lift or carry items. There have been a few instances when I have been severely judged, but those make up about 3% of the past 13 years. I don’t let it bother me too much, its easier just to move on.

MSS: Do you have any advice for other women trying to break into a male-dominated industry?

Jen: Stand up for yourself. If anyone thinks you aren’t capable, just show them you know what you’re doing and you can handle it. Fight for equality. Just because this is a male-dominated industry, that doesn’t mean you aren’t qualified. When I arrive at a transferee’s home I am no better or less than anyone else, everyone should be treated equally and I always honor that system. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes! It happens! I am not perfect and neither is anyone else. When a mistake happens, we use it as a learning experience for our company as a whole to become better at our job. Last but not least, enjoy doing what you do! I have many movers that know who I am and they enjoy working with me and my crew. It’s those long-standing relationships that make everyone successful. After 13 years in the industry, I have learned one valuable lesson: You must believe in yourself! If you believe in yourself, you are destined to succeed.

P.S. I wouldn’t be nearly as successful or even the person I am today without my biggest supporter: my husband and owner of our company, Dean! He has taught me everything I know about this industry. He has always fought for equal treatment for everyone and especially me as his wife. Even now as we raise two children, we instill in them that everyone needs to be treated equally. Hardwork, dedication and teamwork is what has made our company successful.