Finding the right career path isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey. For some, it means attending college before entering the workforce, while for others, it may involve trade school or learning through hands-on experience. Regardless of the route you take, the key is to learn from each experience, ask questions, and apply those skills to carve out your dream role.
Like many, Jane Martell went to a four-year college straight out of high school, believing it was the best step toward her future career. However, she quickly realized that college wasn’t the right fit for her at that time. She left school early to support herself and began working full-time. Her first job was at an engineering consulting firm specializing in energy infrastructure, where she immersed herself in various facets of the business—from field operations and project management to financial planning and business development.
“Taking on some many different roles early in my career gave me a deep appreciation and understanding how both back-office staff and field crews play different, but equally important roles in driving our collective success.”
As she took on new challenges, Jane’s understanding of her strengths and long-term goals grew. After eight years of on-the-job experience, she made the decision to return to school to pursue a bachelor’s degree in leadership and organizational studies with an associate degree in business management. Over the next three demanding years, she earned both her associate and bachelor’s degrees, completing night and online classes while working full-time during the day, often clocking 50-60 hours a week. In 2022, she graduated with her bachelor’s degree and soon after began working at Tilson as a Business Operations Manager, marking the completion of what Jane refers to as the “biggest but most rewarding challenge.”
Now, two years into her role at Tilson, Jane is the Senior Manager of Business Operations for Tilson’s Construction Technology team. Her job is dynamic—no two days are ever the same. She collaborates with various departments to tackle a broad range of operational challenges. This role requires someone who can juggle multiple projects, meet tight deadlines, and maintain composure under pressure—all skills Jane honed while balancing her career and academic responsibilities.
“Each day presents new challenges, and while it can be tough at times, I love working with our team to find solutions. Together, we turn obstacles into opportunities, levering our diverse perspectives to drive innovation and enhance efficiency. I love learning from others.”
For those considering a career change, Jane advises focusing on the skills you can develop along the way. You don’t need to have all the answers upfront, but knowing how to find them is key. Developing active listening skills and learning to ask the right questions are essential in understanding problems and finding solutions. These investigative skills and the perseverance to keep searching for answers are tools you can cultivate no matter your position.
Jane also emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships with your colleagues. These connections can help expand your perspective, open new doors, and provide crucial support during challenging times.
“At Tilson, I have made genuine friendships. The company culture is unmatched—even on the hardest days, I know that I am valued and have the support of my peers and leadership,” Jane said.
With school no longer part of her busy schedule, Jane now has more free time to enjoy her hobbies, including camping, foraging, birdwatching, pickleball, and mahjong. A passionate lover of the outdoors, she is also a registered Maine Guide for recreation. Beyond work and hobbies, Jane is deeply involved in community programs, including Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Olympia Snowe Women’s Leadership Institute, where she empowers the next generation of female leaders.
“My involvement in programs like the Olympia Snow Women’s Leadership Institute and Big Brothers Big Sisters over the past five years has given me the opportunity to help shape the next generation of female leaders. The intellectual engagement with young leaders has also led me to reflect on my own knowledge and experiences, which drives me to continuously improve my own patience, communication, and empathy towards others. The relationships I’ve built through these programs have been lasting and meaningful, while also having a positive impact within my community.”
If you’re looking to gain valuable on-the-job experience and work alongside the best in the industry, Tilson is actively seeking resourceful problem solvers to help us build America’s information infrastructure. Explore our open roles and take the next step in your career journey.