As a a woman-owned and third-generation family-owned natural gas product distribution company, we are honored to put a focus around Women’s History Month.
As a a woman-owned and third-generation family-owned natural gas product distribution company, we are honored to put a focus around Women’s History Month. From the inventor of the natural gas furnace, Alice H. Parker, to our very own President and CEO, Carissa Skorczewski, women are changing the way the energy industry looks.
As we celebrate Women's History Month, we are proud to highlight the diverse perspectives and invaluable contributions of the remarkable women within GROEBNER, each sharing their unique experiences, wisdom, and empowering advice.
Martha Penaloza, Customer Care Representative
Name a woman that inspires you the most and why?
My mother is my #1 inspiration. Through all her obstacles in life, she has remained committed to finding happiness in the little things and treating every day as a blessing.
What advice would you give to young women entering the natural gas industry?
Ask as many questions as you can and don’t feel sorry for doing so! I’m notorious for being the first to raise my hand in a room and not feel embarrassed if I don’t know the answer. Every day is the chance to learn something new.
How do you think workplaces can better support women's advancement and leadership?
More training/seminars consisting of self-growth would be a huge help in the advancement. I had the honor of attending the Energetic Women’s Conference this past summer and it was amazing and empowering.
Is there a woman at GROEBNER you'd like to thank?
Alice has been a HUGE role model for me in my career at GROEBNER. I admire her leadership, compassion, and determination to help us succeed! In a world full of people who would rather have self interest in advancing their own careers/growth, Alice has shown time and time again she is here to support us in OUR growth and gives us the tools we need to be successful. She is the difference between managing a team and LEADING a team.
Alice Zak, Illinois Senior Branch Manager
Who is a woman from history or present-day that inspires you the most and why?
Michelle Obama. Michelle used her time as first lady by implementing the Let’s Move initiative and encouraging education through initiatives such as Reach Higher and Let Girls Learn. Also, serving as a role model for women and working as an advocate for poverty awareness, nutrition, physical activity, and healthy eating.
What advice would you give to young women entering your field or industry?
Things have changed for women in this industry in the last 25 years but there is still room for growth. Do not let negativity deter your desire to make changes.
How do you think workplaces can better support women's advancement and leadership?
Promote women when they are good candidates. Understand a working mother’s commitment to her family and don’t expect her to work like she doesn’t have a family. Realize that they have to be great at prioritizing tasks and time management to work and take care of a family.
Is there a woman at GROEBNER you'd like to thank and tell us why!
I would like to thank Carissa for being a great leader as the president of our company. Carissa is a fantastic communicator and makes sure we all feel valued. She has the quarterly all company calls scheduled in advance so no one will miss out on being kept up to date on the status of the company.
Carissa Skorczewski, President & CEO
Who is a woman from history or present-day that inspires you the most and why?
My Grandma Elaine. She put on a tough, confident exterior but- at the core- was a softy. Being with her reminded me it’s good to be strong while still being vulnerable. Her memory was incredible, and she was an amazing storyteller. Hearing the details of her adventures along with her contagious laugh always made me smile.
What advice would you give to young women entering your field or industry?
It’s an exciting time to be in the Energy industry! Energy is an important essential industry that continues to grow and adapt. There are so many unique layers that allow for different career paths and advancements. I would love to have more women in the Natural Gas field to continue to offer unique perspectives and diverse opinions.
How do you think workplaces can better support women's advancement and leadership?
We need to promote an environment where women are welcomed and empowered to excel at all levels of an organization. In addition- mentorship, development, and networking opportunities are critical to learn from each other and become the best versions of ourselves we can be.
Is there a woman at GROEBNER you'd like to thank and tell us why!
Our amazing Director of Operations- Jessica Siegrist. Jessica is a wonderful leader and collaborator. She takes the time to listen to the team and understand any potential challenges before diving into a solution. We are fortunate to have her on Team GROEBNER!
JoNelle Heins, Human Resources
Name a woman that inspires you the most and why?
This is hard. There are so many wonderfully inspiring women in my life, it is hard to choose one. If I were to choose just one, it would be my Aunt Lori. She has gone through so much in her life and she faces each day with the greatest amount of positivity possible. She is the perfect mix of sunshine and sass. I have always admired her fighting spirit and her unwavering positivity.
What advice would you give to young women entering your field or industry?
The advice I would give young women entering ANY industry would be to stay true and believe in yourself, stay confident in your abilities and to surround yourself with supportive colleagues who can help guide and empower you.
How do you think workplaces can better support women's advancement and leadership?
One of the best ways that workplaces can better support women’s advancement and leadership is to encourage diversity in leadership, provide training and professional development, pay equity and a supportive culture that values and respects the contributions of women at all levels of the organization.
Is there a woman at GROEBNER you'd like to thank and tell us why!
I would like to thank all the wonderful women that work at GROEBNER. Each one of them has helped me professionally and personally or inspired me in their own unique ways. It is impossible to thank just one!
