From Group Editorial Director Mike Miazga: This week the American Supply Association is hosting its annual Women in Industry Elevate2019 conference in San Diego, California. In the spirit of Elevate2019, Supply House Times brings you from its March 2019 issue 20 women who are making a difference in the PHCP-PVF industry. These individuals were nominated by either their company, ASA, AIM/R or their industry buying group/regional distributor association. Their unique and interesting stories will be featured here each day during the upcoming weeks.

Name: Lindsay Taylor
Company: Rampart Supply (Colorado Springs, Colorado)
Position: Marketing Director
Years with the company: 11-plus

How did you get involved in the industry?

LT: On a whim.  I had relocated from Dallas to Colorado Springs in 2007 and registered with a temp agency to find employment.  I had interviewed with a couple different employers and had a good gut feeling with Rampart.  With absolutely no plumbing knowledge whatsoever, I began as a showroom receptionist answering phones and doing mostly administrative-type work. A short three months later I worked my way to a showroom sales position. With a background in marketing, I began taking advantage of my skill set and enhanced my position by working closely with the vice president who oversaw both sales and marketing. I paved a way for a marketing coordinator position for myself — at the time we did not have a fulltime person dedicated to strictly marketing efforts. From there, I continued working hard and proving my value to the company. I furthered my education, obtaining my MBA in marketing in 2016. Not long after, an opportunity came knocking. My boss at the time, the vice president, announced his retirement and I was selected to take over the marketing department for the company, as newly appointed marketing director.

What do you like the most about your company?

LT: The longer I work for Rampart the longer the list gets of things I like about working here. I like that it’s a family here and that I’m much more than a number. The Perrys (owners) genuinely care about their people. I like that the owners and leadership group give autonomy to their employees over their responsibilities. It shows trust. For me personally, it allows me to innovate and make decisions without all the bureaucracy. I also love the fact that I have a great degree of control and freedom within my job. My boss trusts me to produce high-quality work and results. Work-life balance is so important in today’s fast moving environment and Rampart is an employer that understands just that. I feel super fortunate to work for and with such amazing people.

Your advice to a young woman who may be considering joining our industry?

LT: Go for it! Recognize and seize the opportunity in front of you. The PHCP industry is on the rise as market conditions continue to trend upward. This is an industry that is fast-paced, relevant and will be around for a long time.  Women are continually making strides in the industry, and it’s one in which women truly support other women and their successes. I’m living proof that you can be as “green” as they come, but if you work hard and invest your time wisely you can leave your mark and reap the benefits for a lifetime career in our industry.