Celebrating Women's History Month

By Latrice Lewis

Women’s History Month provides a fantastic opportunity to celebrate and learn from the trailblazers in Frederick County who are breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields. We delved into their journeys—how they decided to enter their respective fields, the challenges they've faced, and crucially, what keeps them motivated and enthusiastic about their future and the future of women in their industries.

Sandra Hofmeister, Owner A&S Construction

“I studied, graduated college, and became an accountant, accomplishing essential goals in the private sector. Then moved to Florida in 2006 and continued working in the accounting field. But in 2010, I needed a change and moved to Frederick, MD, and started in construction, a field I had never dared to dream about before. I dove in head-first and never looked back.” 

Why did you choose the industry you chose, as a woman? 

I think this industry chose me; I became a career-changer, unexpectedly.  My previous career was in accounting and once here in the U.S. we settled in Frederick County, and I was unable to find work in my field at the salary I required.  I ended up in an AA role in another construction company and decided I was going to learn this business inside-out and become a boss! 

What is your favorite part about being an entrepreneur and/or woman entrepreneur? 

Breaking the mold! Having the ability to show people that women CAN do it all, if they choose, wife, daughter, mother, leaders, etc. We thrive in our professions. Also, this has allowed me to meet some amazing people in the community that I would not have met in my initial career path.  

What advice would you give someone, specifically a woman who wants to start a business in this field? 

It’s not for everyone. You must have/develop thick skin. You need to develop a voice. You must be determined in order to move past; through the barriers you will certainly face. Be/stay focused on the end-goal. “It will not be an easy road!” Be prepared to understand that there is a disparity in pay. My hope is to be a catalyst to begin making a change in this area/industry. 

How have you grown personally from being an entrepreneur? 

Realizing it is not for everyone but that I can do this. Also, income can be very slim at the beginning. I developed my voice, became a leader and actually believed in myself. Most importantly has allowed me to serve my community in many ways. 

What would the person you are now go back to share with your 10-yea

Be open to whatever comes your way, you never know how your plans may change. From “employee” to “Entrepreneur”, it has opened many doors, allowing me to be a Mentor, Counselor, Connector and most importantly, Collaborate and Contribute.  

Theresa Harrison, Owner George Street Services

“The satisfaction of fitting the pieces together to form the right picture is what I do as a leader. As a successful entrepreneur and engineer, I solve tough challenges in support of my teams, my clients, my community and our national security. In addition to fortifying systems and helping my clients develop solutions, I also mentor tomorrow’s business leaders, with an aim at increasing the number of women and underrepresented minorities in leadership positions and STEAM careers. I Lead.” 

Who is your biggest “role model?” 

My mother, she had 11 children. Helped me gain the ability to strategize across many areas; she was the best strategic thinker I know, most successful person I know, she knew each of her children intimately, strengths/areas for development, managed us among eight (8) different High Schools because she knew which school was the best fit for our personalities. She was the ultimate “role model,” “supporter,” “encourager,” and “leader.” 

Why did you choose the industry you chose, as a woman? 

I wanted to be an astronaut-fascinating to go beyond. While I never became an astronaut, my technology has gone into space. Technology allows you to go beyond and think beyond.  Also, because I had so many brothers, I didn’t initially see the challenges most women would recognize. I want to continue this path and always be evolving, allowing you to learn and be exposed; need to be here to show women they can be the future in this industry. 

What has been some of your most important/biggest learning experiences as a woman entrepreneur? 

SPEAK UP! Women are just naturally willing to collaborate, be a good team member, share compliments, while we are also important to any initiative, we have a lot to offer and are needed to speak up. Because we have experience working hard and not feeling comfortable speaking up, it’s important for the next generation of women to see us speak up, step up and share/see us. Don’t be too perfect, it delays progress trying to be prefect. Be unapologetically you. 

What is the hardest part about being an entrepreneur (woman entrepreneur)? 

Not being seen, heard or invited to the table. Not being able to receive venture capital funding and having to initially “bootstrap” the enterprise. 

How have you grown personally from being an entrepreneur?  

Key things I call the 3 bones:  

Constantly utilizing the Funny Bone: keep the joy in starting/growing a business and people, 

Spinal cord: key to holding everything together, the workings of everyone, becoming a better manager and technologist which makes for a better company and leader, 

Backbone: it’s hard, must take a stand, run or walk away, if necessary, know “rest is not selfish.”  I’m strong enough to withstand turbulence and equip myself personally and corporately, collaborate a lot more, I can laugh, stay upright and withstand whatever is thrown at me. Where I am now, my success is the result of ensuring everyone else is successful, family, team members, employees, organization, clients.

What would the person you are now go back to share with your 10-year-old self? 

I don’t know if you are aware that everyone has a purpose and a path that is their own, you don’t need to compare yourself to anyone else or be anyone else.  You’re in the early stages of uncovering your amazing abilities and greatness, go after and experience everything you want in life because I know you can do it.  “Walk in your greatness!” 

“Through resilience and determination, I not only cultivated a passion for science and medicine but also transformed it into a concrete dream. I realized early on that if I wanted to achieve my aspirations, I couldn't rely on anyone else to pave the way for me. This realization fueled my drive to pursue Biology as I understood that by taking control of my destiny, I could turn my dreams into reality.” 

When did you know you wanted to be a “Woman in Science,” how old were you? 

I first discovered my calling to become a scientist at a remarkably young age, around 4 or 5 years old. While most children were engrossed in cartoons, I found myself captivated by medical mystery shows like Dr. G the Medical Examiner and Mystery Diagnosis. These programs sparked a deep fascination with scientific inquiry within me, igniting a lifelong passion for understanding the complexities of the world around me. As I grew older, this interest blossomed into a profound love for biology, particularly evident during my middle school years. In my first biology class, I experienced a profound sense of connection, as I began to recognize the concepts, I had absorbed from years of watching scientific shows coming to life before me. However, this journey wasn't without its challenges. Despite my enthusiasm, many teachers doubted my abilities in STEM subjects. Yet, rather than allowing their skepticism to deter me, I saw it as an opportunity to advocate for myself and prove them wrong.   

Who is your biggest “role model?” 

One of my first role models was my 7th grade GT (gifted and talented) chemistry teacher named Ms. McIntosh. I endured an uphill battle getting into the advanced chemistry class. Many teachers and staff did not believe I was fit to be on the gifted and talented school curriculum track. When I was finally able to transfer into her class, Ms. McIntosh herself was at first a little apprehensive about my ability to handle the work as well. However, with time, she was able to see the potential in me and she wanted to nurture the passion I had within myself. I believe she understood that my home life was complex, so she went above and beyond to make sure that I had all the equipment I needed to present my first scientific experiment project for the county science fair.

What has been some of your most important/biggest learning experiences? 

My transition from community college to a four-year institution was marked by significant challenges, particularly concerning financial and housing instability. As a non-traditional student navigating college independently, I initially harbored concerns that my circumstances would be met with judgment. However, I was pleasantly surprised to discover an outpouring of support, acceptance, and assistance from both peers and faculty. 

By sharing my experiences, I not only help others feel seen and heard but also contribute to a more empathetic and inclusive academic environment.

What is your favorite part about being a woman in science? 

I absolutely cherish being a woman in science! It's empowering to contribute to a field where women's voices and perspectives are increasingly recognized and valued. Diversity in STEM isn't just about representation; it's about enriching the field with a multitude of perspectives, creativity, and problem-solving approaches. 

 As a woman in science, I embrace the opportunity to offer unique insights and to challenge conventional thinking. Our diverse backgrounds and experiences serve as a strength, enhancing innovation and driving progress forward. Every day, I'm inspired by the collective impact we, as women, have on shaping the future of science. 

How did you deal with fear and doubt as you were starting out? 

Dealing with fear and doubt is an ongoing journey for me, even as I continue to grow in my career. I've learned to embrace these feelings as a natural part of the human experience, especially in the challenging realm of science. I prioritize my mental well-being. Taking care of my inner child and nurturing the aspects of myself that drive my aspirations is essential. I find solace in reminding myself of the inner wisdom and resilience that have guided me thus far, along with the unwavering support of my faith.

In closing, women are a force in our lives, our organizations, the economy, our homes, and this world. I hope the appreciation for the value we “bring to the table” was made apparent in these three profiles of dynamic women right here in our own back yard. Women’s History Month is the perfect time to “Thank” all the women we know who have brought a positive impact to our lives in some way. 

Jessica Mills