Celebrating Women’s History Month: Meet Liz Ranney
At Avangrid, equal opportunity in the workplace matters to us. During Women’s History Month, we honor women’s contributions to our company and our history, culture, and society. Today, meet Liz Ranney, Lead Analyst-Electric Field Operations for New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG-West).
Can you tell us about your career journey and what accomplishments your most proud of?
I’d say my biggest accomplishments would be nearing the completion of my degree. This achievement represents countless hours of hard work and many sleepless nights. Seeing the light at the end of the tunnel is incredibly rewarding and motivates me to continue striving for excellence. Another significant milestone was receiving a promotion last year. This accomplishment is a testament to my hard work and dedication. It has allowed me to grow and develop as a leader, adding more tools to my professional toolkit.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry today?
Mentorship is invaluable. Seek out mentors who can provide guidance, support, and insight based on their experiences. Building relationships with mentors can help you navigate challenges, develop your skills, and advance your career. Don’t hesitate to reach out to potential mentors and be open to learning from their wisdom.
Embrace change as an opportunity for growth. Our industry is constantly evolving, and being adaptable is crucial. Stay curious, be willing to learn new things, and remain open to new ideas and approaches. Change can bring about innovation and progress, and those who are flexible and proactive in adapting to it will thrive.
By valuing mentorship and being adaptable to change, you can build a strong foundation for a successful and fulfilling career.
Which women in your life have served as important mentors or role models, and what did you learn from them?
Two women who have served as significant mentors and role models in my life are my mother and my grandmother. Both exemplify resilience and hard work. They have consistently inspired me to persevere, regardless of the obstacles life presents. Their unwavering dedication has taught me that persistence and effort are key, and that hard work will ultimately be recognized by the right people.
What strategies do you use to maintain a healthy work-life balance, especially with the demands of a professional career?
I make it a point to set clear boundaries between work and personal time. This includes having a designated workspace and specific work hours, which helps me switch off from work when the day is done. I also believe that effective time management is key. I use tools like calendars and to-do lists to organize my tasks and ensure I’m making the most of my time. This helps me stay on track and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
What do you hope future generations of women will achieve or experience in their careers?
I hope to see more women in leadership roles, breaking the glass ceiling in various industries. Future generations should feel empowered to take on positions of influence and drive positive change. I hope future generations will have access to strong mentorship and support networks. Having role models and allies can make a significant difference in one’s career journey.
What does Women’s History Month mean to you personally?
For me, Women’s History Month is about recognizing the contributions of women in all fields and reflecting on the ongoing struggles for gender equality. It’s a reminder of the strength and resilience of women everywhere. This month is about empowerment and solidarity. It’s a time to support and uplift each other, recognizing that while we’ve come a long way, there’s still work to be done to achieve true equality.
View more Women’s History Month stories.
