What made you start your own business? 

My husband and I were managing a 14-person consulting business and we believed we could do it on our own. It was a big decision to purchase this existing business instead of leaving and starting a company with just the two of us, but we have never regretted the decision to keep the original team together. BrightFields will be 5 years old in May 2008, but some of our staff have worked together for 15 years.

How did it feel when you got your first sale? 

We had many existing small accounts, but wanted to grow the business to longer-term projects and larger clients. We were ecstatic when we won our first large, high-profile project!

What makes you so passionate about your business? 

I love solving complex environmental problems, forming and working on high-energy teams, helping our clients achieve their visions, and helping our staff grow and develop their careers. I get to do all of these, plus meet new and interesting people every day! We all work hard, but it’s a lot of fun too.

View more 2008 Award Winner Profiles

View all of the 2008 National Small Business Week Award Winners.