Kathie Shields is a self-described people person. During her career, Shields’ ability to make connections and foster strong relationships with others has helped her to make an impact within three very different organizations.
For the past five years, Shields has put those skills to work for the Tech Collective, a trade association for the high-tech industry in Rhode Island. After spending her first year as a part-time membership salesperson – during which she increased sales by 12 percent – Shields was made the organization’s interim executive director in 2005, and after a strong year she was given the position on a permanent basis.
Among other accomplishments during Shields’ tenure, Tech Collective has become a state affiliate of key national groups, including the Biotechnology Industry Organization; increased membership and sponsorship revenue by 32 percent; and increased grant awards by 68 percent. She also worked with other regional bioscience groups to establish the New England Biotech Association in November 2008.
Shields got her start at The Robbins Co. in Attleboro, starting as a customer service assistant while in college. She was promoted multiple times, serving first as business process manager, which required her to manage relationships with large companies including General Motors, Ford Motor and Disney, and then as New England territorial director. After leaving Robbins, Shields spent three years running a company she co-founded, Gift Creations, which created gifts for businesses to recognize their workers.
Shields serves on committees for both the Governor’s Workforce Board Rhode Island and the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce. Along with spending time with her husband and two children, Shields has volunteered her time with organizations such as the local softball league, her children’s scout troops and school activities. •
