Our newest blog series, “Playing 20 Questions,” helps you get to know our CPE team members—from their positions to their personalities! This month, we are highlighting Ginger Duggan, UTC CPE’s Assistant Director for Business Development.
1. How long have you been in your role?
Almost four years!
2. What does a “day in the life” look like for you in your role?
I am responsible for establishing new (and maintaining existing) business relationships with CPE’s constituents. Mainly, I work with companies in the region, find out what their training needs are, and then offer them training solutions.
Also, I am the program coordinator for the PMP Test Prep boot camp, the Project Management Fundamentals course, the HR Leadership Academy, and the SHRM Exam Prep course.
3. What do you enjoy most about working at CPE?
I love the energy and collaboration our office brings.
4. What motivates you to get up and go to work every morning?
I love providing solutions for customers and playing a part in meeting their training needs.
5. What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned while in your role at CPE?
Pay attention to details.
6. What is your favorite project or a memorable moment you’ve had while working at CPE?
One of my most memorable moments is when we moved our offices from Pfeiffer Hall to the James R. Mapp Building. It was amazing to see our beautiful and new space for our customers to take courses in. The space will also provide more convenience to our customers, which excites me!
7. In one sentence, how would you define true leadership?
Set an example for others that will encourage them to reach their full potential.
8. What is a professional motto or quote you “work” by?
“Treat everyone like they are important—because they are.”
9. Why do you believe continuous education and training are important for professionals?
Professionals move into different positions throughout their careers. Each position switch (for example, becoming a manager) has different skills you need for success. When employees feel supported by companies as they grow in their careers, companies will have a competitive advantage because they have skilled employees, higher retention, and higher satisfaction rates.
We are an educational partner with Development Dimensions International (DDI) and their research shows that 90% of new managers don’t feel prepared, 60% of them fail within the first 24 months, and 43% of people admit they left at least one company because of a poor manager.* Training is a great investment, in particular, for managers so they learn to lead effectively. A great boss makes for a great life.
10. What are three skills you would say business managers need to have?
Empathy, trust, and communication skills (including listening!)
11. What’s a fun fact about you that would surprise people?
I can ride a unicycle. I learned in the 7th grade!
12. What do you like to do when you aren’t in the office?
I enjoy water-skiing, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.
13. What books are laying on your nightstand table?
I read a lot of fiction books. My favorite genres are mysteries and historical fiction.
14. If you could meet one person, dead or alive, to grab coffee with, who would it be and why?
My dad. I had lots of days with him, but I would love to sip coffee together one more time. He was an amazing man!
15. Tell us your favorite concert you’ve ever been to.
Fleetwood Mac!
16. What piece of advice would you go back and tell your younger self, who had just entered the workforce?
Go to the CPE website and get your industry-recognized certifications. 😉 There are quite a few you can earn as an entry-level professional. Always stay learning!
17. If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Photographic memory.
18. What activities would you recommend to a tourist coming to visit Chattanooga?
Go hiking! There are many beautiful spots to explore, like Edwards Point. Also, I recommend eating at Taco Mamacita.
19. Tea or coffee?
Coffee.
20. What’s your favorite place you’ve ever traveled to?
I’m not sure yet. Ireland is my favorite so far, though! I am still working on my bucket list. I want to visit all the places that show up on your computer screen when you turn it on every day.
Contact Ginger by email at Ginger-Duggan@utc.edu or by connecting with her on LinkedIn.
*Source: DDI’s Frontline Leader Project
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Marah Whitaker (think Laura with an M) serves as the marketing assistant for the UTC Center for Professional Education. During the workday, she spends time writing blog posts, creating content for social media, developing email campaigns, and building relationships with CPE’s customer base. During her free time, you can find her getting lost in a good book, having spontaneous dance parties, playing piano, and going to Buffalo Wild Wings on Wing Night. Professionally and personally, she aspires to live by Mr. Feeny’s advice, “Dream. Believe. Try. Do Good.” She strives to use her passions to serve others and contribute positively to the world around her.
Connect with Marah on LinkedIn.