Amy Ecklund
AmyWorks, Inc.
Seattle, WA USA
"Failure is not failure. Failure is just an opportunity to learn something."
Career Roadmap
Amy's work combines: Engineering, Entrepreneurship, and Building Things
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Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Here's the path I took:
High School
Bachelor's Degree
Environmental Science
Undergraduate
Vocational
Emerging Leaders Program
Small Business Administration
Certification
Certified Graduate Remodeler
National Association of Home Builders
Certification
Certified Builder
Building Industry Association of Washington
Life & Career Milestones
My path in life took a while to figure out
1.
After earning my degree in environmental science, I spent 14 years working in a few environmental labs as well as doing quality assurance for an aerospace company.
2.
Outside of work, I bought a house for my young family and tackled home renovations without a second thought, having been taught how to fix things by my dad growing up.
3.
I eventually got burnt out and wasn’t as interested in my current career trajectory anymore, and decided I needed to shift.
4.
A friend introduced me to tools designed for women, sparking my dream to start a home repair business.
5.
I launched my first business through a handyman franchise, learning business basics along the way.
6.
After leaving the franchise, I honed my skills working for a real estate developer.
7.
In 2009, during a tough economy, I founded AmyWorks, determined to grow a trusted contracting company.
8.
I built a niche serving clients who value inclusivity, trust, and clear communication.
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Society in general:
Women don't belong in the trades.
How I responded:
I've been fortunate to be successful in my career but I do attend women in trades events where the majority of the topics revolve around how hard it is for women to work in trades. Even asking for a separate bathroom or feminine products is a hurdle. I think it's important to be vocal about these issues and call attention to the injustices that women face in this field. Women are completely capable of being successful in the trades too.