In college, I learned about GIS via some major prerequisite courses I needed to take while I was pursuing a Geography degree focusing on Climate and Meteorology. I realized GIS was something I was quite good at, so I decided to take it and run with it! Upon graduation, finding no job listings for entry level positions, I started cold calling/emailing any place that I could imagine that might have just the slightest bit of GIS needs. I finally got a call back from Lenoir City Utilities Board, a local municipal utility board service Loudon and Knox County with Electricity, Gas, Water, and Sewer. I worked there for three years, and then by word of mouth found a position at Cannon & Cannon, Inc, now Ardurra, where I have made endless extremely valuable connections as well as gained skills in various departments such as using GIS to design Fiber Broadband and conduct Utility Asset Management. I have not filled out a single job application for either of the two jobs that I have had since graduating. Networking and making connections will get you very far!!

PS: Her company recently did a spotlight about her, read about it on Cannon & Cannon, Inc.