We recently connected with Holley Harris and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Holley, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
As an Army Intelligence Officer working in Special Operations, I am often the only female sitting at the table. Even after 19 years in the Army, I still get intimidated in certain scenarios, but at the end of the day, I know I belong. I worked just as hard to get to where I am as everyone else did and I deserve to be there. Each person brings something unique to the table since we all have different experiences and backgrounds, which aids in mission success. I am thrilled to say that very few times in my career have I ever felt sidelined. The Army, and Special Operations Command have always made me feel valued.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Ever since I was a kid, I wanted to be in the Army, so that’s what I did! This May will be 19 years as an Army Intelligence Officer and the experience has been amazing. I’ve lived and worked in South Korea, Germany, all over the US and deployed to Afghanistan twice. I’ve instructed the Jordanian government on anti-terrorism practices and problem solved with the French and British militaries. It’s hands down the best decision I’ve ever made.
When I’m not working in uniform, I support law enforcement and the Department of Defense by working at a technology company. I also spend a lot of time volunteering. I’m President of Women in Defense for Tampa Bay and help raise funds for underprivileged girls K-12 for STEM programs. I also volunteer with the Junior League of Tampa on the Human Trafficking Awareness Committee. Another passion of mine is animals. I volunteer with The Mercyful Project, an animal-rescue non-profit.
My husband and I have 5 dogs, who are our whole world!
I think what’s special about me is my selflessness, willingness to lead and how I devote so much time to causes important to me. Sometimes I spread myself too thin, but I’ve always felt a sense of obligation to give back to the world and make the world a better place. Even though it’s exhausting, it’s what makes me happy! Everyone can do something to help change the world if they want to!
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Network! The saying goes “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know”… sadly this is often true. I’ve found by networking and taking an active role in getting to know successful people in my career field has helped tremendously. This can be in person or via LinkedIn, which is a great way to stay informed and outreach to people you aspire to be like.
Surround yourself with good people. They say “you are the company you keep” and it’s true. I have a group of solid friends that I’ve gathered throughout my lifetime, and the good ones stick around! I have a group of girlfriends here in Tampa who are a constant sounding board for each other. We support each other when tough times hit, like lay-offs and celebrate each other during important times. I think this is important to have friends you can trust and lean on.
All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?
Right now, I’m trying to think about “what’s next.” I’ve been involved in the defense industry for my entire adult life and I only have a few years left in the Army before I’ll retire. I want to use this as an opportunity to change things up a bit. I feel like it’s going to be difficult to do since I’ve essentially been doing the same thing for nearly 20 years. I’m sure a lot of people transition out of the military feel this way, but I’m trying to look at this as something positive, an opportunity to grow. I’m equally as excited as I am nervous. Will I be an entrepreneur and start my own business? Will I completely change career paths? We’ll see!!
Right now, I’m starting to do some “research” and understand what these paths will entail. I’m considering what my objectives are and my overall goals are for this transition. All I know right now is that I want to have fun and love what I’m doing.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gi_holley/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holley.a.harris1
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holleyharris/
- Other: https://www.widgtb.com/
