Today, March 8, marks the observance of International Women’s Day – a global celebration of women’s achievements across social, economic, and cultural realms. This year’s theme, ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,’ highlights the critical role that gender equality and the well-being of women play in fostering thriving communities and preserving the vitality of our planet. In recognition of this important day and Women’s History Month, Itron is excited to continue our annual blog series dedicated to showcasing the powerful, skilled women of Itron who contribute to Itron’s mission of creating a more resourceful world.  
 
For the first blog of the series, we sat down with Jeanie Aday, technical training associate in the learning, documentation and innovation department, to learn more about her story and the wisdom she’s gathered along the way. Check out the highlights of our conversation below: 

Q: What does an average day working at Itron look like for you?  

A: In my position, I wear many hats, so no two days are alike. I might spend one day developing and editing a tutorial video for the Product Training Viva Engage site. Another day could have me immersed in learning the intricacies of one of Itron’s solutions, like Streetlight.Vision, to ensure I’m fully prepared for customer training sessions. On other occasions, I’m involved in compiling and organizing documents from various departments to manage our translation services.  

Q: What do you enjoy most about your role? 

A: I love the diversity in routine that my role gives me. I’m constantly engaging with different aspects of our operations and collaborating with different people across various teams, which keeps my work exciting and dynamic. Each task allows me to grow and challenges me in unique ways. This variety not only enhances my skillset, but also keeps me passionately connected to our mission, making every day a rewarding experience.  

I also immensely enjoy working with my department. Everyone on the learning, documentation and innovation team is incredibly supportive. From day one, I felt my ideas and opinions were valued. Our department leaders, Nikki Grewal, Jeffrey Bartley, and John Baston, do a wonderful job fostering a truly psychologically safe environment, which I believe is the reason why everyone on the team is so highly engaged.  

Q: How have you grown and evolved since beginning your position at Itron? 

A: I have grown in every sense of the word since beginning at Itron in June. Previously, I taught for 10 years in public schools, so transitioning to a corporate environment was a significant shift. At Itron, I’ve developed a deeper understanding of technology, honed my project management abilities and enhanced my communication skills. This journey has broadened my professional capabilities and enriched my personal growth, making me more adaptable, confident and resourceful.  

Q: Can you share about a role model who has inspired you and how they influenced your career? 

A: I come from a family made up entirely of amazing women – my mother and my three sisters. Growing up, my mother taught us the importance of being dependable and having a strong work ethic, and she embodies those values to this day. With such a strong role model, it’s no wonder why all my sisters - and I’d like to think myself as well - have grown to be strong, independent women. Although not without faults, it’s the commitment to lifelong learning and continuous improvement that I look up to most, qualities I strive to emulate every day.  

Q: What is one piece of advice you would give other women and girls who are looking to excel in their career? 

A: My advice is to never stop learning. Follow industry leaders online. Listen to podcasts. Read books. Talk to people outside your department. Ask questions. Play around with new technologies. Don’t ever settle with what you already know.