Yes, you can do this! 

Mary Kutscherenko's entire career has been in shipping and sales. For the last 22 years, she has worked for Lynden Logistics, an air and ocean freight forwarder that specializes in domestic and international shipping to the offshore markets of Hawai'i, Alaska, Puerto Rico, and the mainland. Mary is now the Hawai`i Trade Lane Sales Manager for the company. "We love to help with large projects on any island, especially construction sites. I try to make shipping as easy and seamless as possible," she says. 

She credits NAWIC with being a catalyst for building her career. "NAWIC was a way for me to network, build clients, and make new friends. Everyone in construction needs shipping so it was a perfect match." Mary doesn't feel that being a woman was a disadvantage, but success was still a challenge. "I never felt that I was overlooked because I am a woman, but I had to prove myself to many clients—male and female—so they could trust me and my service. However, it's still challenging to break into cliquey male networking groups." Her solution? "Perseverance and a kind attitude go a long way. Do what you say you will do and don't promise the world."  

Mary describes how her career allows her the freedom to sell her company's services anywhere. "I do not have limitations unless it can't fit on a plane or boat to Hawai'i. Aloha Marine Lines is my sister company. They provide barge service to Hawaii. Being successful and making my goals is the greatest feeling of achievement at work."  

But she notes that there are other benefits to her success. "Being a manager allows me to grow in a different direction by mentoring new staff who will someday take my place. I'm proud of the evolution of employees from new and not knowing much to being experienced and successful. I'm excited to see new account managers close new business and feel their own sense of accomplishment. In the future, I'm interested in becoming a Vice President of Sales so I can take my company to the next level by making an environment of satisfied, thriving, and happy employees."  

Again, she talks about the value of NAWIC to her career. "Being part of NAWIC and getting involved with their events has made me a better friend, account manager, and public speaker," she says, while admitting, "I'm still working on the public speaking part."  

"I get to network with the best group of ladies at NAWIC. My advice to women interested in the construction industry is 'Yes, you can do this!' Any job in construction is attainable. You are no longer limited but encouraged to be part of the construction industry. It's not just a man's job. It's for anyone and from any background. The women in construction I have met are amazing, smart and in all the roles. It's no longer a male-dominated job. It's for everyone. Even me!" 

If you know of a NAWIC member that deserves to be recognized as a Best Person for the Job, contact us today!