By Ashley Reyes
The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Jessica Blackshaw, vice president of operations at HAVEN Creative Agency, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member.
Get to know Blackshaw in her interview with SEMA News below.
SEMA News: How many years have you been with your current company and what do you enjoy most about working there?
Jessica Blackshaw: I've been with HAVEN Creative for four years. One of the things I enjoy most about working here is the ability to make an impact quickly. Being part of a female-led organization is incredibly inspiring and empowering. Additionally, I love knowing that my work helps take some stress off our clients and partners, enabling them to be the best version of themselves.
SEMA: What is the most challenging part of running your business or job?
JB: The most challenging part of my job is managing multiple clients simultaneously, as there are always a million plates in the air at one time. My responsibility is to ensure that the team has everything they need to drive the project from start to finish, ensuring the train runs on time. Additionally, learning the ins and outs of each partner is like running multiple businesses at once, which can be demanding but also keeps the work exciting.
SEMA: How many years have you been in the industry and what was your first industry job?
JB: It's hard to pinpoint my exact start in the automotive industry because I grew up going to the racetrack with my dad. My first official job in the industry was as a marketing intern at Charlotte Motor Speedway. I was younger than most of the interns and had to beg them to give me a chance to show them what I could do. Fortunately, they did, and I worked most of the races for the following four years.
Many might think the most exciting part of the internship was race day and being in the mix of the action. However, my favorite part was the calm before the storm--watching the haulers load in the day before to a quiet oval about to be filled with thousands of fans. I guess you could say I've always loved the behind-the-scenes operations that make the final product possible.
SEMA: What are three qualities that got you to where you are today?
JB: Three qualities that have gotten me to where I am today are my "get [stuff] done" attitude, commitment to bringing people along with me and dedication to delivering the best.
First, my "get [stuff] done" attitude means that you can count on me if you want something done. I have an intrinsic drive to push through challenges and complete tasks efficiently and effectively. This quality has ensured I consistently meet deadlines and deliver results for my team and partners.
Second, I believe that as a leader, one of the most important things you can do is bring people along the journey with you. I love pushing my team to be the best version of themselves. This has fostered a collaborative work environment where everyone feels motivated to contribute their best. I think this is best demonstrated in our culture of "making mavens," where we educate our peers and partners and empower them to be better communicators. Being able to help people along in the journey through our "making mavens" ethos has been an important factor in my career growth at HAVEN.
Lastly, I am not satisfied unless I know I've done my absolute best for myself and whoever I am working with.
SEMA: Being a woman in the industry, what have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments?
JB: Being a woman in the industry, the biggest challenge I've faced is sometimes having to take a seat for myself at the table. There have been many situations where I wasn't the first choice that came to mind, but I proved myself to be the best choice through my dedication and hard work.
My biggest accomplishment isn't just securing a seat at the table but excelling in any challenge I've been given to create opportunities for others. Once you get a seat, you must do your best to bring others along with you.
SEMA: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry?
JB: I have to say that, for the most part, the automotive industry has always welcomed me with open arms. However, there weren't many women paving the way for me as I was coming up. I got used to being one of the only females in the room, but it doesn't have to be that way. We all have a chance to show someone the way and give someone a chance to shine.
One person who has been a huge influence on my growth is my other half at HAVEN, Jeni. I'm incredibly grateful that we found each other. Her support and guidance have been invaluable, helping me navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities. Her mentorship has shaped me and inspired me to mentor others, ensuring that more women have the support and encouragement they need to succeed.
SEMA: What is the best career advice you have received?
JB: The best career advice I have received actually comes from an author, Glennon Doyle, who said, "Stop asking people for directions to places they've never been." This quote has impacted my professional and personal life by encouraging me to live my most authentic life. Professionally, it has helped me trust my gut and make decisions based on my unique vision rather than seeking validation from others who may not understand my journey.
In my personal life, it has empowered me to follow my own path and prioritize what truly matters to me, leading to a more authentic and fulfilling life. I'm super proud that I've created a career and life that represent who I truly am.
SEMA: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry? What keeps you here?
JB: The automotive industry feels like it chose me more than I chose it. From a young age, I was in the world of motorsports and machinery, which ignited a passion that continues to drive me today.
What keeps me here is the industry's constant state of change and evolution. I thrive on the excitement of never having two days alike. Whether it's new promotions, innovative products, advancements in safety features, or groundbreaking ideas, there's always something new and interesting to dive into. This constant change challenges me to stay adaptable and creative, which keeps my work fulfilling and engaging.
SEMA: Who was the most influential person on your career/goals?
JB: My dad has been the most influential person on my career and goals. He was a brilliant entrepreneur and my first business mentor from the day I was born. He ignited my entrepreneurial spirit and taught me to keep grinding, especially when things get tough. There isn't a single day when I don't wish I could pick up the phone and ask him for advice or just hear him tell me it's all going to work out.
I am forever grateful for his guidance, simply through his actions and the way he tackled challenges head-on. His belief that I can achieve anything I set my mind to has been a driving force behind who I am today.
Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media, SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website.