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August 13, 2025
I wasn’t sure if I would be accepted into the Edge program at the Leadership Summit because I had minimal leadership experience. In fact, a management role became available after I had been working for about two years in another position, and I didn’t go for it because I lacked confidence in my ability to lead.
And then the opportunity of Leadership Summit came up, and I thought, “This is what's going to prepare me.” I knew I didn’t want to miss the next great career opportunity because I was too timid, scared, or sure if I was qualified enough. I don’t want to be in a position again where I’m so timid that I just sit back and let a good opportunity pass me by.
In addition to being the youngest person on my team, I’m also the newest to the field of procurement and the only woman. All of these things can make it intimidating to speak up or voice a new idea.
Building My Procurement Path
I came into procurement after working a grueling job in the solar industry. My brother was the one who suggested I apply for a position at the City of San Jose. He always told me I needed to find a better work-life balance. What started as a random job application turned out to be a perfect career fit. With my law school background in contracts, procurement became an unexpected sweet spot that combined my legal training with my professional skills.
Even so, the Edge program was still a challenge. The first week alone involved emotional aptitude exams that left us emotionally raw, because we were forced to confront our vulnerabilities. I wasn’t expecting to have such an emotional response, but it was a crucial first step that helped me understand myself and my leadership style better. That awareness has helped me to become a more effective leader in my personal and my professional life.
Even though it can be a struggle to maintain balance between work priorities with the demands of the Edge program, I gave it my all and more. Be prepared for a transformative experience— this isn’t an easy course that you can just join whenever you want. It’s an intensive program that involves meeting with your group virtually, and then the larger group during the in-person Leadership Summit. Throughout, you’ll participate in discussions and complete outside work and reading which really provides the learning to become a transformed leader.
Finding My Voice
The main thing I gained from Edge was confidence. I am more confident voicing my ideas to my team and others. In addition, I'm thrilled to be presenting this year at Forum. My talk is called 'Strategic Leadership in Procurement: From Analyst to Influencer. '
I was apprehensive about speaking because I don’t have much experience, but my NIGP mentor and others helped me realize that even though my experience might be shorter in years, it is just as valid as anyone else’s. In fact, having a fresh perspective can be a good thing that helps us break through roadblocks and see challenges in a new light.
The Lasting Impact of Edge
As much as Edge has helped me professionally, the confidence and skills I've gained also extend into my personal life. I started applying these leadership principles with my family, guiding them more subtly and effectively. I learned to practice mindfulness and protect my peaceful approach. I no longer try to hide from it but instead see it as a valuable leadership trait.
My biggest takeaway from Edge is that leadership isn't about having all the answers. It's about creating space for others to find their own solutions, maintaining your authentic self, and continuously growing. The Edge program which makes up the NIGP Leadership Summit experience didn't just develop my professional skills; it helped me discover a more confident, empowered version of myself–one who isn’t going to let another opportunity pass me by!
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Other posts in Profiles in Leadership
From Storekeeper to Strategic Leader: My Journey in Procurement and Through the Edge Program
Ryan Blaine
