Diana Hutchinson

Degree(s): Mechanical Engineering

Professional background, interests and expertise: My career has included serving as an officer in the USAF, process engineer and project manager at Motorola, and project management for new product introduction at Woodward and Beckman Coulter. Now I have a small business supporting purpose-driven organizations in getting more clarity and confidence in how their teams work together effectively. Our 5-person company uses facilitation and coaching as our main tools to help organizations. I enjoy making processes better, quality systems, and helping others gain skills and confidence. I have 4 kids (ages 10-21). I enjoy reading, Toastmasters, cooking, and recreational biking. I serve the community as board president for the Centennial Children's Chorus, and through my church, and I recently joined the Elevations Foundation board.

Hours available for mentoring per month: 2 (primarily via phone/video call)

Best professional advice: As a PLC student, I am guessing you are someone who enjoys learning. I think one of the keys to success is to keep learning in all aspects of your life. My father-in-law gave me the advice to "ask good questions." If you are wondering about something, others are probably wondering too. And where people start generalizing ("stuff" and "things"), that is usually the place to dig in and find areas that need to be thought through a little more. I would also suggest that you look for opportunities to help others and learn from them. Many people will be honored that you asked for their advice. Also, as capable as you are, don't underestimate the contributions you make or can make, and still keep humble by remembering that you are where you are because of the help of a lot of other people. The people who had the idea to build roads, start a public school system, or create your discipline of study laid a foundation for you to go farther. Read authors like Brene Brown, Malcolm Gladwell, and Patrick Lencioni, and Stephen Covey. Join Toastmasters and professional organizations for the field you are interested in.