Pontbriand honored by NAPW

Meagan Pontbriand was recently named the 2015-16 Professional Woman of the Year by the National Association of Professional Women. The award is given to a professional woman who demonstrates outstanding leadership and commitment in her chosen occupation. Pontbriand is contract compliance manager for Banneker Industries and president of the Rhode Island chapter of the Institute for Supply Management.

You received your bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. What led you down the path to supply-chain management?

Believe it or not, the work I am doing for Banneker Industries – as their contract and compliance manager – is not that far off from my formal education in criminal justice. It’s all very legal. Of course, I didn’t know that I would be working within a supply-chain company, but that speaks to the flexibility of my degree.

What does it mean to you to be recognized by the National Association of Professional Women?

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I joined the National Association of Professional Women for the networking and training opportunities it offered. After being involved for a year, it was quite an honor to be chosen as “Woman of the Year.” Recognition from my peers, especially a group of professional women, is confirmation that I am on the right track – doing good work, empowering other women and moving forward!

What advice would you give to young women for navigating their careers?

Be bold. Don’t take no for an answer. Ask questions to learn why. Build your network. Find a mentor. And don’t be afraid to change – your path, your industry, your job!

When you first started at Banneker Industries in 2007, did you see your career landing you where you are today?

No! You never know what opportunities are going to come your way and where they will take you. I’ve committed myself to doing great work, and that has gotten me into the management position that I am in now. I’m incredibly proud to be a manager at Banneker and to be leading the contract and compliance team! •

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