“I really stumbled into the industry,” says Holly Montrose, 38, about her entry into the world of pumps. With a background in chemistry, she was working as an engineering technician when a friend of hers connected her with an outside technical sales specialist role. Once in the role, Montrose found she loved the puzzle-solving aspect of building out solutions, and that led her to stay in the industry. “I loved that the HVAC world is part of a much bigger world. So, things are always changing and I’m always learning, which I love.” She also finds it incredibly rewarding to work with “inspiring people who seek to make change in the world.”
Montrose’s best advice for students or newcomers to the industry is to “take every opportunity to network with everyone in the industry. Networking can take you so far in your career if you do it right. It is not just about self-promotion but being a servant leader. Really listening, making personal connections and trying to understand and educate. Then, you can have authentic, tough conversations about how you’re dealing with a situation, and you’ll be trusted as a better solution provider.”
When asked what accomplishment she’s most proud of, Montrose said, “I am proud that I have taken on a significant leadership role at such a young age, in such a male-dominated industry. I feel honored to be part of the conversation, and my goal is to be identified as a leader in this industry. I feel it’s about impact. I want to leave it better than I found it.”
Have you had a mentor (or mentors) who influenced your career development?
Yes, there have been so many. I am grateful to my first manager in this industry, who took a chance on me. He was impactful to me, motivating me and changing my perspective to help me see how much I could positively impact in my current role. I’m also so thankful to have managers provide me opportunities to really stretch my legs and show people what I’m capable of. That hugely influenced my career development, and that being done for me gives me the courage to do the same for others
How do you typically spend your time outside of work?
I have two beautiful girls who are involved in competitive dance. I am often attending a dance competition. I love spending time with them and my husband. I also love to volunteer at their school.