Shelley, a successful businesswoman in the field of multimodal clean transportation, has always been driven by her passion for starting her own business. Inspired by her family members who ran successful businesses, particularly her parents who established a property management and residential property rehab company, Shelley’s entrepreneurial spirit was ignited at an early age. Over the years, her business ideas have evolved, shaped by her work experiences and the gaps she identified in the market.
One of the significant challenges Shelley faced in her career was creating something from nothing. Together with her co-founder Terry Travis, she spotted an unmet need in the market and used their knowledge and experience to fill the gap. This marked the beginning of both companies and laid the foundation for their success.
To balance her personal life with professional commitments, Shelley relies on technology and meticulous organization. She maintains a detailed, color-coded calendar to keep track of personal and professional commitments. Moreover, she prioritizes self-care and wellness, understanding that taking care of herself is essential to be fully present for her team, partners, and family.
When asked about advice for young women considering a career in business, Shelley emphasizes the importance of finding women who inspire them in their desired field. By reaching out to these women, shadowing them, and learning from their experiences, young women can gain valuable insights and determine their own career paths. Shelley encourages them to identify their strengths and weaknesses to build a successful team and discover a job they would do for free out of love and passion.
“Every work experience that I have had informs what I do today and how I move and run my company.”
Shelley’s goals for her business revolve around shifting the narrative on multimodal clean transportation, ensuring accessibility for all communities and consumers. Her strategies include facilitating groundbreaking research, implementing data-driven approaches, and providing effective mobility solutions tailored to clients’ specific needs. Additionally, she aims to increase diversity in the clean transportation sector, creating opportunities for professionals from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences through initiatives like their e-mobility fellowship program.
Staying up to date with the latest trends and innovations is crucial in Shelley ‘s industry. She starts her day by reviewing headlines and relies on top sources for tech and auto news. Her team of experts also keeps her informed about emerging issues in their respective sectors.
What sets Shelley’s business apart from others is their early recognition of the need to transition clean transportation from early adopters to mass adoption. They have accumulated extensive data on barriers and facilitating factors to clean transportation adoption in both general market and diverse communities. Their data-driven approach, combined with a deep understanding of the social and environmental landscape, allows them to maintain a competitive edge.
Success for Shelley’s business is measured through metrics and evaluation tools, with continuous quality improvement serving as a foundation for growth. By identifying opportunities for expansion, prioritizing them through comprehensive assessment tools, and aligning them with their strategic plan, Shelley ensures sustainable growth for her business.
Technology plays a significant role in Shelley’s business. As a technology consulting practice focused on electric, connected, shared, and autonomous mobility solutions, they leverage technology and innovation to drive progress in the industry.
“I want to create a space where I can amplify the many career opportunities and paths that are available to women and young women in our sector.”
Managing risk and uncertainty requires a proactive approach. Shelley’s strategies include conducting thorough risk assessments, developing comprehensive mitigation plans, fostering collaborations and partnerships, continuously monitoring and adapting to changes, investing in talent management, and maintaining financial planning and reserves.
To cultivate a positive company culture, Shelley emphasizes clear communication, employee engagement, supportive leadership, diversity and inclusion, and work-life balance. These values guide their actions, creating an environment where employees feel valued, motivated, and empowered.
Diversity and inclusion are core principles in Shelley’s organization. They are committed to growing the number of professionals from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences in the clean transportation sector. Initiatives like the e-mobility fellowship program provide opportunities for underrepresented individuals to gain valuable experience and build a career in the clean transportation industry.
Shelley recognizes the importance of collaboration and partnerships in driving meaningful change. She actively seeks out strategic alliances with government agencies, academic institutions, industry leaders, and community organizations. By fostering these partnerships, Shelley’s business is able to leverage collective expertise, resources, and networks to create innovative solutions and address complex challenges in the field of multimodal clean transportation.
In terms of sustainability, Shelley’s business prioritizes environmental stewardship. They have implemented robust sustainability practices throughout their operations, such as using renewable energy sources, reducing waste and emissions, and promoting eco-friendly transportation alternatives for their employees. Shelley also has been driving an electric vehicle for the last six years. By leading by example, Shelley aims to inspire other businesses to adopt sustainable practices and contribute to a greener future.
Shelley’s entrepreneurial journey has been both rewarding and challenging. She has experienced setbacks and obstacles along the way, but her resilience and determination have kept her going. She attributes her success to surrounding herself with a strong support system, including mentors, advisors, and a talented team and staying spiritually grounded. Shelley believes in continuous learning and personal growth, and she encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace failure as a learning opportunity and to never lose sight of their vision.
As her business continues to evolve, Shelley envisions continued expansion into international markets and collaborating with global partners to tackle the pressing issues of climate change and urban mobility. She believes that by working together, businesses and communities can create a more sustainable and inclusive future.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Shelley is deeply committed to giving back to society. She actively participates in philanthropic initiatives focused on education, environmental conservation, and empowering underprivileged communities. Shelley believes that business leaders have a responsibility to use their resources and influence for the betterment of society, and she strives to make a positive impact through both her business and her philanthropic efforts.
In conclusion, Shelley is an inspiring entrepreneur who is leading the way in multimodal clean transportation. Through her innovative approach, data-driven strategies, and commitment to sustainability and diversity, she is inspiring change and making a difference in the industry. Shelley’s story serves as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and purpose in driving meaningful and impactful business ventures.
“By implementing these strategies, our businesses can proactively manage risk and uncertainty, reducing potential negative impacts and enhancing our ability to seize opportunities.”