“We come across thousands of wonderful people as part of our life’s journey…
…but the number of people who enter our lives in a manner which changes our character, our way of thinking, or our view of the world is small. Carol Evanoff is one of those people. Carol taught us to dream, to assess our dreams, to identify the road and to keep our eyes ever forward as we moved through the day to day execution of our career plans.
I cannot believe I spent a decade in undergraduate/graduate schools, had read dozens of books, and yet had not come across the straightforward notion that a career is something to be planned. My mentoring with Carol did not culminate in just career improvement. It led to a long-term dialogue on change management, strategic planning, and how best to compel people to action. I was taught the power of passion and its role in getting work done well.
In fact, that passion is the fuel that drives the machine called excellence.”
~Thomas C. Stroup, Operations Directorate Risk Manager
“I am an excellent example of the ease and success of using the gap analysis tool…
…for evaluating career objectives, opportunities and ultimately exceeding my previous expectations. The gap analysis tool is designed to encourage mentees to look beyond obvious career progression paths and explore positions that leverage skill sets, experience and pursue an individual’s passion. When I first used the gap analysis tool, I was in an executive development program and had a successful and productive career in Quality Assurance. It had not occurred to me or my leadership team to consider anything else. The tool requires individuals to map their career journey and understand what motivates and excites them personally and professionally.
The process of evaluating potential opportunities, meeting with current job holders and their leadership, facilitates educated decision making. The initiative taken by the individual is recognized and appreciated at every step. As a result of Carol’s mentoring and structured approach to career development, I was promoted into a senior leadership position in the Material Management organization. I have also been able to develop and practice my passion for continuous improvement.
As I continue to grow and revise my development plan, I truly understand that the future holds unlimited possibilities.”
~Carolyn Kise,
Senior Manager, Operations, Lockheed Martin Space Systems
“The gap analysis tool is a powerful career development tool for 3 key reasons.
First, the Work Experience Matrix gives you incredible insight into where you’ve been throughout your career, what you’ve learned and what your capabilities are. To see that all mapped out on a few pieces of paper is incredibly empowering. Secondly, the Job Requirements Analysis challenges you to map your path, down to the exact skills, visibility and learning experiences you need to advance in the organization. Finally, it’s impressive. That sounds superficial, but it opens doors for you. I’ve had three of my own managers who have been blown away by my work experience matrix and two potential managers with whom I interviewed who spent time with me during and after the interview to understand the gap analysis process and…
…how it led me to the position for which I was applying.”
~Jennifer Wright
“Three things I learned from Carol…
1. Don’t try and be a glamour girl—everyone wants the glam jobs. Instead volunteer for those jobs that aren’t so glamorous—where you have to dig in and get the details. You won’t be in competition with anyone for these jobs—and you could become an expert in that field.
2. Don’t be a workaholic—working yourself to the point of burn out does not do anyone any good. Take a break, go for a walk, call a friend. When you come back to your project—you will be refreshed and ready to tackle the job.
3. Don’t work harder—work smarter. There’s always room for improvement. Working harder on a project is not always the best answer. Instead, pull yourself away and take another view of how to approach your project. Become your own efficiency expert.”
~Elizabeth Rivas-Pietsch
