All the functions of the port are my responsibility, as far as overseeing it. I have to do the budget and make sure I’m in compliance of it. Property management is another big task, also do business recruitment.

How did you land this job?

An opening came up in this position in December of 2007 and I applied and got it and was hired in February of this year.

What about the job opening appealed to you?

I’m from this area, so the opportunity to work in the community that I’m from and I live in was attractive to me. To be able to be part of the community, and also to bring good industry here, that’s important to me because I want to see this area thrive.

Is there a business decision you’re especially proud of?

I think the way that I’ve approached this position, just to be more transparent with the public and have the public be more involved.

What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

Because we’re such a small port, there are only two employees, but the port owns a significant amount of assets. Just to be cognizant of those assets is important. There’s a lot of balls in the air, just maintaining facilities and trying to acquire businesses. There are so many things to stay on top of.

Are you reading anything for fun?

I am part of the book club here in Woodland at the public library and we are currently reading “The Language of Baklava.”

What music are you listening to?

You know what, I have not gotten any new music in so long. I feel so out of touch with popular culture at the moment. I am a public radio junkie.

What’s your favorite restaurant?

Columbia Cafe in Astoria, Ore.

Is the American Dream alive? Why or why not?

I would say yes, because I feel like in America there’s always opportunities for people to improve themselves or have that freedom to improve themselves and to be creative. Our culture is always creative, there’s always a next new thing. I think our culture is inspiring that way.

What do you like to splurge on?

I like to eat good food.

What’s the best business advice you’ve received?

Just that old philosophy of giving it your all. I know it’s corny.

What was your first job and what did you learn from it?

My family had a little farm and my dad had us pick raspberries and he would line it up so we could sell them to the grocery stores. I really hated picking raspberries, but the money was a good incentive. My parents instilled in me a work ethic, so whenever there was work, I always took it.

What was your biggest career break?

My husband and I started a cafe in 2001. Those experiences were irreplaceable and taught me so much about how to run a business through trial and error. It was just an educational experience that I couldn’t replace with anything.

Do you have a favorite vacation spot?

I enjoyed Florida when I went. I enjoy going to the Bay Area. My family has a place on the (Puget) Sound that I try to get to when I can. That’s a little piece of paradise, right there.

What advice would you give to someone starting out in your line of work?

Be positive and be respectful of listening to other people and the advice they have. Your perception is totally different when you have a positive attitude.

As a child, what did you picture yourself doing when you grew up?

I saw myself being in business. I didn’t know what that was, but I knew I’d be doing something in business.