Mary McNamara Joins Other Kansas City Women Business Leaders as Panelists at WBDC’s 2018 Connect & Celebrate Event!
A packed house enjoyed networking and listening to the Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC), panelists discuss “Leaders Learning from Leaders: How the Current Economy is Impacting Procurement Trends.”
Joining Mary, President of Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal, as WBE Panelists was Denise Kruse, Owner/CEO, AdamsGabbert. Corporate panelists included: Gena Fitzgerald, Global Procurement Director, Hallmark Cards, Inc; Elizabeth Stoltz, Director, Supply Chain, KCP&L and Westar, Energy Companies; and Christine (Chris) Kelly, Administrative Coordinator, Supplier Diversity, Metropolitan Community College.
The panel was moderated by Maria Jenks, VP, Supply Chain KCP&L and Westar Energy companies who presented some impressive statistics on women’s entrepreneurship which has been on the rise for the last two decades. As of January 2017, there were approximately 11.6 million women-owned businesses in the United States employing nearly nine million people and generating more than $1.7 trillion in revenues.
Mary shared some of her growth and relationship building strategies which mirror Cornell’s Mission and Vision as to the importance of always delivering on your promises. Mary also shared some stories of her personal experiences working in, owning and growing a business in a male dominated industry.
As the panel discussion wound up and the networking began, Mayor Sly James made a surprise visit and addressed the attendees with his thoughts on the important roles diversity and inclusion have had, and continue to play in Kansas City’s growing economy.