North Texas LEAD Alumni Give Back
North Texas LEAD alumni are professionals who have successfully completed LEAD’s Panel Briefing and the Behavioral Interview and who have taken advantage of LEAD’s services and support as they search for new career opportunities.
Whether candidates secure a position with a LEAD employer partner or another organization, they are encouraged to note their LEAD experience on resumes and LinkedIn profiles and to consider giving back to the nonprofit.
Help us by:
- Connecting employers with LEAD and other job seekers
- Volunteering to serve as a panel interviewer
- Engaging as a mentor to the next generation of job seekers
- Providing resume review and feedback
- Making a tax-deductible gift today at https://northtexaslead.org/donate/
To get involved now, email us at NTLgroup@northtexaslead.org.
Success Stories
“North Texas Lead provided the services needed for me to be successful in finding my new career. I received the full make-over experience from resume tips to help understanding the market at job negotiation time. I was able to put my best foot forward with the coaching of this organization.”
Sonja Beauchamp, Quality Assurance Administrator, DFW Airport“North Texas LEAD has provided me the advantage of networking with fellow professionals and seek employment opportunities that I would never have access to without the organization. Because of their efforts in resume writing and interviewing skills, I was able to set myself apart from the rest of the competition and prove to employers that I was the best candidate.
I greatly appreciate their commitment to keeping me informed of positions that were in my field and always giving valuable feedback when requested. Thanks to North Texas LEAD, I have now found employment with a wonderful company that will allow me the chance to grow further within my career. Joining the LEAD organization will definitely change your life as it has changed mine!”
Danielle Brown, Senior Analyst, Benefits, Oncor Electric Delivery“Looking for employment or making a career change is a daunting task. Joining the North Texas LEAD organization helped me to gain focus on my career goals and provided me an avenue to pursue those goals. The networking and coaching opportunities were extremely valuable to me and were the catalyst to opening the door for my new career at D/FW International Airport.”
Kenneth Buchanan, Executive Vice-President Revenue Management, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport“When I decided to make a change in my career, LEAD was instrumental in assisting me identify companies within the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex that were aligned with my career goals. With LEAD’s assistance, I was able to identify a company where I believe future growth opportunities are available.”
Debra Curry, Chief of Systems Engineering, Bell Helicopter Textron“I am both extremely impressed and grateful for the influence that North Texas LEAD has had on my career. They have provided numerous opportunities for me to network with senior executives from the companies that shape and make the Dallas/Fort Worth business area into what it is today. Just going through the interview process to receive the valuable feedback, was worth any efforts I made. In addition, they have provided opportunities for me to “make a difference” and give back in their efforts to grow the LEAD organization. Thank you North Texas LEAD!”
Konnie Espanet, Technology Services Senior Manager, BNSF Railway Company“North Texas LEAD was a great resource in helping me find employers that were hiring during my time of transition. It was my first time being laid-off and without a job, so I was overwhelmed and concerned. The staff there was always friendly, responsive and supportive. I really appreciate you all for that. North Texas LEAD endorsed me for my current role at Trinity Metro. I have now been here a year as the Sales and Business Outreach Manager. Thank you for all your assistance!”
Cequila Greer, Manager, Community & Business Outreach/Sales Manager Trinity Metro“The North Texas LEAD program was an invaluable opportunity to interface and build a network with industry professionals, to whom I might otherwise have never gotten access. Also core to the program is the “Real World” training – specifically interview techniques and panel reviews – which is critical to successfully market yourself and your skill set to potential employers. Thanks to the training, support and guidance of Gyna Bivens, the North Texas LEAD staff and sponsors, I gained the polish and confidence needed to get to the next level in a position of management with DFW International Airport.”
Ian Hargis, Airline Relations and Analytics Manager/Global Strategy and Development, DFW International Airport“Without a doubt, my decision to apply to North Texas LEAD was the best decision of my professional career. Although I had the work experience and education documented in a nice looking resume, it was not sufficient to advance to the next level. The most beneficial lessons learned came from studying the STAR interviewing technique, listening to advice on presenting myself in an authentic manner, and learning how to develop an effective networking technique. With the prayer, guidance and support from Gyna, Stephanie, Stephen, and the rest of their support network, I was able to successfully navigate a very rigorous interview process in order to land my dream job at DFW Airport.”
Robert Horton, Vice President, Environmental Affairs, DFW International Airport“While education and experience are critical components in any job search, securing employment in the modern-era requires job candidates to build a brand for themselves. The LEAD process helped me establish the platform of credibility that was the catalyst to the launch of my career at BNSF.”
Jarred Howard, Government Affairs and Public Policy Lead, Bell“It’s not just WHAT you know, but WHO you know! Executive-level minority professionals looking to make a career move should definitely know the North Texas LEAD organization. The process is easy and the introduction and exposure to key leaders inside organizations through LEAD networking events is invaluable. Gyna and her team are excellent examples of follow-up and follow-through! If you are seriously motivated to make a career move, let North Texas LEAD lead the way.”
Lynda Jackson, Senior Legal Counsel, Fort Worth ISD“As a career wife, married to an active duty member of the U.S Navy, transferring to various duty stations comes with its fair share of challenges. Thanks to North Texas LEAD and its selection process, becoming a LEAD candidate has given me the opportunity to network with key members in the Healthcare industry, polish my interviewing skills, and successfully gain employment with a diverse and transforming healthcare system. My sincere appreciation is afforded to the team for assisting with my brand, resume writing, and launching my career in Healthcare Leadership and Management.”
Nicole Jones-Pellum, Director of Quality, United Health Group“I have worked with North Texas LEAD for a number of years, first as an HR Executive, but then as a candidate. LEAD helped position me to be a serious contender for my new HR leadership role. North Texas LEAD has so many key employers as members of their talent pool, so of course I found a great deal of networking opportunities with their guidance.
I’m so thankful for finding such a great employer to work for, and I will continue to be a strong supporter of North Texas LEAD.”
Melanie Kroeker, Human Resources Director, Fort Worth Housing Solutions“My experience with North Texas LEAD was exceptional, and I highly recommend the North Texas LEAD program for job seekers. Although I was an endorsed candidate, I initially had no idea the effort I would make to prepare for my panel interview nor how the resources and support LEAD provided me would lead to an amazing job with a North Texas LEAD Partner.
It has truly been an outstanding experience for me, so much that I now actively volunteer to serve on LEAD panel interviews to give back a small measure of what has been given to me. I am very thankful for the opportunity I had with North Texas LEAD and will do my part in ensuring more people are aware of the wonderful work that they do.”
Doris Kwiyup, HR Business Partner, Oncor“The best recommendation I have for anyone seeking a new position is to join the North Texas LEAD. I cannot say enough great things about the North Texas LEAD’s organization or the team members. They have been in your shoes, and know what you are experiencing. The team’s diversity of experience enables them to provide you with the valuable insight and direct assistance to help you succeed in your job search. Being endorsed by North Texas LEAD provided me valuable networking opportunities.
Before becoming a candidate, I participated in several interviews throughout the Dallas and Fort Worth area with no satisfactory results. It was not until I became a LEAD candidate that the opportunities started to come my way and guided me to a fantastic new position with Trinity Metro.”
Bruce Lewis, Senior Director of Information Technology, Trinity Metro“Working with North Texas LEAD has proven to be an exceptional experience for me. The selection and job search process is set up to bring out the best in candidates through coaching, resume development and more. The LEAD team was instrumental in helping me take my resume to another level, allowing me to realize my strengths and how truly valuable my professional experience is. Having long tenure with my previous organization, it had been several years since I’d interviewed. LEAD introduced me to the STAR format of behavioral based interviewing, which better prepared me to communicate my experience effectively and to show my value. After only a short time, I was hired by a world class organization that is progressive, innovative and embraces diversity. I am so grateful for the opportunity to work with North Texas LEAD. I will continue to remain in touch with the organization and tell others about the great work they do!”
Andrea Lewis-Thomas, Workforce Diversity Manager, DFW Airport“My experience of a professional management job search and working with the North Texas LEAD program has yielded the most rewarding business and educational career opportunity that I ever could have imagined. I was able to apply my entire corporate, non-profit, and business career to my current role as Supplier Diversity Manager at Tarrant County College. North Texas LEAD supported me by ensuring that my resume and interviewing skills were fine tuned. As a result, I had a very successful interviewing session with various TCCD administrators. North Texas LEAD definitely increased my professional management marketability through the preparation process. Thanks go to Gyna and Stephanie for their commitment to my career success.”
Andre McEwing, Supplier Diversity Manager, Tarrant County College District“I was introduced to North Texas LEAD through a co-worker’s acquaintance. LEAD opened my eyes to the organizations in the Dallas/Fort Worth area where I could utilize my leadership abilities and apply my career background. LEAD’s interview process was a great starting point in getting to know LEAD and what it brings to our community.”
Kathy Novak-Johnson, Director, Customer Experience and Analytics, BNSF Railway“Working with the North Texas LEAD team has been integral to not only my job search, but my development as a career professional. Gyna, Stephanie and Stephen provide a valuable service to career professionals who believe self-improvement is a valuable organizational asset. As an ASQ Certified Black Belt the LEAD program taught me how to interview and network with passion and purpose. I highly recommend LEAD to current and future job seekers who are willing to learn, listen and grow within their respective career path.”
Keith Potter, Continuous Improvement/Project Management Leader, GM Financial“North Texas LEAD was a blessing to me in that it opened up a wealth of knowledge and access to job interviewing. Everything from the orientation, panel mock interview to alerts of specific job opportunities in my area of expertise as a IT Project Manager. Also, I was honored that North Texas LEAD selected me as a candidate which to me was a added bonus to my job search efforts. I would recommend North Texas LEAD to everyone that in the job search season of life and need a partner to greatly support them. Thanks everyone at North Texas LEAD for all your help!”
Cyruss Powell, Project Manager, Tyler Technologies“The entire process from start to finish was amazing! The North Texas LEAD team is supportive, responsive and here to help you succeed. The process is intense, but well worth the effort. I have not only gained strong professional relationships with the LEAD team, but through the events and networking I have established long-term relationships with their partners as well. I am now an IT Project Manager for a company in the DFW area. I attribute my success in part to what I learned and the relationships formed at LEAD.”
MegRose Quiterio, IT Project Manager, Digital Matrix Systems“North Texas LEAD’s efforts made it possible for me to connect with the hiring officials at Dallas Area Rapid Transit so I could showcase my skills and abilities and ultimately obtain the Director of Diversity and Equal Employment Opportunity position. After working six years in that role, I transitioned to the Director of Special Projects position with DART. Both positions have given me the opportunity to enhance my leadership skills and contribute to the success of the organization. It all started with the staff of North Texas LEAD believing in my credentials and preparing me for executive-level positions.”
Dr. Nicole A. Roberson, SHRM-CP, Director, Special Projects, DART“When I was laid off after nine years at a pharmaceutical company, I had no idea where I would end up next. My interviewing skills needed polishing, and I had no idea how to network or brand myself. While attending a job club meeting at TWC, I was told about the LEAD organization. Going with my first mind to give LEAD a try was the best thing I could have done.
I know that the feedback I received from the panel interview was instrumental in my obtaining employment no longer in the laboratory, but finally using my advanced degree in public health! I love my new job! Thank you to everyone at North Texas LEAD!”
Na’Kedra Rodgers, MPH, Business Performance Analyst II, Texas Health Resources“I highly recommend the North Texas LEAD program for job seekers. Becoming an endorsed candidate helped to restore my confidence, and the evening networking opportunities were in a class of their own. I had some wonderful job interviews with a NTL employer, and even though they did not lead to a job offer, they positioned me to succeed at other interviews, which led to a great job offer within 90 days of becoming an endorsed candidate!”
Linda Smariga, USAF veteran, Project Manager, Health Management Systems“North Texas LEAD was a critical factor in connecting me with prospective employers. I am very appreciative and grateful for their guidance, preparation, networking opportunities and referrals. As an endorsed North Texas LEAD Candidate, doors were opened to me that typically would have been closed, or at the very least difficult to access. The vetting process is very thorough and helps all professionals bring out their best in the interview process, from entry level to seasoned executives who have been out of the job market for a long while. North Texas LEAD is a wonderful and respected forum that showcases talented professionals to organizations that value a diverse workforce. I am grateful to have been a North Texas LEAD endorsed candidate while in transition and now as a volunteer. Thank You, North Texas LEAD!”
Sandra Sneed, MBA FACHE, Vice President of Operations, Texas Health Arlington Memorial“I learned about North Texas LEAD years ago as I was transitioning from a wonderful career as a reporter and news editor. The LEAD staff helped me translate my traditional media skills for a strategic communications career and prepared me to compete for executive roles through their proven behavioral interview process. Since then, LEAD has opened doors for me with other top, regional employers. This team has played an essential role in diversifying executive ranks across North Texas and is deeply appreciated.”
Kristin Sullivan, Communications Manager, Fort Worth Housing Solutions“Having an advocate is essential to any job search and your team was my advocate at ONCOR. I spent nearly 20 years in just two companies locally and did not have a network or advocates who could help other than your team.”
David Treichler, Director of Strategy and Technology, ONCOR Electric Delivery“Going through the process to become a North Texas LEAD candidate provided additional job opportunities, valuable exposure, and actionable interview feedback that helped me during my career change in 2006/2007. The whole process and experience gave me an advantage then and I believe that holds true today in an increasingly competitive job market. I would strongly recommend North Texas LEAD to professionals looking for career opportunities in organizations that value diverse talent.”
Jennifer Trevino, Chief Development Officer, Girls, Inc. of Tarrant County“In the current job market, the importance for career seekers firmly establishing a “brand” to set themselves apart from the field cannot be understated. North Texas LEAD provided the platform for me to do just that! The networking opportunities and career resources that LEAD provided were invaluable to me and helped to align my skill set with a great institution of higher learning in Texas Christian University. Thank you Gyna, Stephanie and Stephen and the entire North Texas LEAD organization for all of your hard work and dedication.”
Emmanuel Tumi, IT Systems Administrator, Pollock Orora“After spending most of my career in higher education, North Texas LEAD was my advocate into the Dallas/Fort Worth private sector. Without a doubt, applying to North Texas LEAD was one of the best career decisions that I have made. The LEAD team immediately connected me with GM Financial. I had two interviews and an offer within 60 days. I will forever be indebted to Dresdene Flynn-White and the NTL team. I would strongly recommend North Texas LEAD to any career professionals looking to join organizations where diversity matters.”
Robert Wall Jr., CEFP, Vice President, Facilities Operations and Administration, GM Financial“North Texas LEAD is a fantastic organization. I was granted a panel interview in October and was accepted into the program. Shortly after, LEAD endorsed me for an open position at the City of Fort Worth. I received a job offer from the City of Fort Worth in November. This may not have happened so quickly without the assistance and guidance of the North Texas LEAD. Thank you, North Texas LEAD for your assistance and your confidence in my ability to fulfill the requirements of the job! I am so excited about this new chapter in my life and my “continued” relationship with LEAD. The City of Fort Worth was my first choice, and I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to serve the City of Fort Worth’s small business community and the community at large. I am an advocate for the North Texas LEAD for life!”
Gwen Wilson, Business/Community Development Manager, City of Fort Worth