In Quietness and Confidence
Editor's Note: This article was originally published by Loui McCurley in the Women of National Association of Tower Erectors (NATE) newsletter, Volume 5, Issue 5. Women play a prominent role as leaders and visionaries in the advancement of wireless and broadcast communications. Through the establishment of the Women of NATE (WON) initiative, the association is proud to recognize the vital contributions of men and women in the diverse tower and communications infrastructure industries. Loui is a member of WON and the NATE OSHA Relations Committees, and is the chief executive officer of PMI Rope and Vertical Rescue Solutions.
Photo credit: Chris Rycroft / FLICKR / August 2022
I would like to take a moment to recognize the incredible women among us. Women who inspire us with their resilience, intelligence, and creativity. Women who are making their mark in every aspect of our industry.
When I was young, there was a wall hanging in our home that read, “In quietness and confidence shall be your strength.” As I have come to know many of you, I realize just how true this verse rings of so many women here who have faced adversity and overcome obstacles, all while remaining steadfast in their determination to pursue their passions.
Their stories — your stories — remind us that strength can come from unexpectedly quiet places. It takes a strong character and unwavering courage to live according to your values and principles, especially in a world that is constantly changing and challenging your beliefs.
Hold Fast to Your Values
The great author, CS Lewis, wrote a half-century ago, "The diseases that will certainly end our species… if it is not crushed, (is) the fatal superstition that men can create values; that a community can choose its 'ideology' as men choose their clothes.”
A dire warning for our times indeed. We live in an era where it is easy to get swept away by popular trends and ideologies. In such times, it becomes all the more important to hold on to our core values and beliefs. It is in quietness and confidence that we can find the strength to be the best versions of ourselves, unwavering in the face of adversity.
When my dear friend and mentor, Steve Hudson, died tragically in 2013, I struggled to write a brief announcement of his passing. As I agonized over finding words that would do justice to a life so well-lived, I realized that he had crafted his legacy himself, brightly and definitively throughout his life: Just do the right thing.
What are your values, and what will you be remembered for?
Define Your Success
In a recent article featured in the Women of NATE newsletter, “How 7 Female Leadership Skills Breed Success for Organizations,” Michelle Symonds highlights some of the unique strengths that women can bring to help drive success within organizations.
Success can be defined in different ways, but here are some common definitions:
Achieving your goals and objectives
Feeling fulfilled and satisfied with your life
Making a positive impact on others and/or the world
Overcoming challenges and adversity
Having financial stability and independence
Finding happiness and contentment in your personal and professional life
Regardless of how you define success, let this be an opportunity for you to reflect, and to recognize and cultivate the unique contributions that you can bring to the table.
Take Time to Connect
Our community is so diverse, yet we all share a common goal: to support and uplift each other as we navigate our careers and lives. In these challenging times, it is more important than ever to take time to connect with others. Whether it be through virtual coffee chats, mentoring relationships, or networking events, building and maintaining relationships can help provide a sense of support and belonging.
Let's celebrate our resilience, intelligence, and creativity together. When we support and empower each other, we all benefit.