Stepping into leadership as a woman has been one of the most empowering and challenging experiences of my life. As the President of Airheads HVAC, CEO of AH Financial, and a longtime real estate investor, I have seen firsthand how women can transform industries traditionally dominated by men. The road has not always been easy, but every challenge has helped shape my confidence, purpose, and voice. I believe women bring something powerful and unique to leadership, especially in business and finance.
Rising From Humble Beginnings
My journey did not start with advantages or a roadmap. Growing up in New Jersey in a big Italian family, I learned early that nothing would be handed to me. My mom worked as a waitress, and we did not have the financial means for college. I had to build my future from the ground up. That experience taught me resilience, independence, and grit. These qualities have served me well as a woman in leadership, especially when I found myself in rooms where I was often the only woman.
The Value Women Bring to Leadership
Women bring a different kind of strength to leadership. We are empathetic, great problem solvers, and strong communicators. We understand the importance of relationships and community, which plays a huge role in building successful teams and businesses. In my own companies, I make it a priority to lead with compassion and clarity. I believe in being firm when needed, but also approachable and understanding. When employees feel valued and supported, the entire organization grows stronger.
Women also tend to lead with collaboration instead of ego. We look for solutions that benefit the team, the clients, and the community. This mindset is especially valuable in business and finance, where trust and long-term relationships matter as much as the numbers.
Facing Gender Barriers
Even today, women in business face challenges that men often do not experience. Whether it is being underestimated, overlooked, or questioned more aggressively, these barriers still exist. Early in my career, I often felt like I had to work twice as hard to prove myself. I had to demonstrate not only my competence but also my resilience and determination.
Over time, I realized that these challenges were not roadblocks but opportunities. They made me stronger, sharper, and more confident. They pushed me to speak up, stand firm, and trust my own judgment. Breaking barriers does not happen by avoiding the hard moments. It happens by facing them head on and refusing to back down.
Building Businesses With Purpose
One of the things I am most proud of is building businesses that prioritize people and community. At Airheads HVAC and AH Financial, I lead with integrity and transparency. I believe leadership is not just about making decisions but about creating an environment where people feel empowered to grow.
Women have a natural ability to lead with heart while still making tough financial choices. In industries like HVAC and finance that are typically male dominated, bringing a balanced approach has helped our companies stand out. Clients and partners recognize authenticity, and they appreciate leaders who understand both business goals and human needs.
Supporting Other Women
A major part of breaking barriers is lifting others as you rise. I am passionate about supporting women who want to step into leadership roles or start their own businesses. Whether through mentorship, community involvement, or simply leading by example, I want women to know that they belong in every room, at every table, and in every conversation.
I encourage women to take risks, trust their abilities, and never shrink themselves to make others comfortable. Confidence grows with action. The more we put ourselves out there, the more we realize that we are capable of achieving anything we set our minds to.
Giving Back to the Community
Leadership is not just about business success. It is also about giving back and making a positive impact. I serve on several charity boards and stay heavily involved in local community organizations. Whether it is through fundraising events, sponsorships, or hands on service, I believe leaders should use their influence to uplift others.
Women bring compassion and a community focused mindset to leadership, and that makes a real difference. When we combine business success with philanthropy, we create meaningful change that extends far beyond our own companies.
Encouraging the Next Generation
As a mother of three, I want my children to grow up seeing that leadership has no limits. I want them to know that women can run companies, make financial decisions, and lead teams with strength and grace. The next generation will break even more barriers because they are watching us do it right now.
I remind my kids and young women I mentor that leadership is not about perfection. It is about courage, resilience, and staying true to who you are. Every setback is a lesson. Every challenge builds character. And every small win moves you forward.
Final Thoughts
Being a woman in leadership has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my journey. It has taught me the importance of resilience, confidence, and community. Women are powerful leaders, and our voices are needed in every corner of business and finance. By pushing through barriers, supporting one another, and leading with purpose, we are creating opportunities not only for ourselves but for generations to come.