To mark Women’s History Month and celebrate the contributions of women in the industry, we asked four accomplished members of TeamUG2 for their insights on thriving as women in the workforce—and inspiring others along the way.
If you know our business or saw their spotlights on our social channels, you might already know that Iris, Ema, Betty and Maria represent the best of UG2—deeply committed to their work and to their colleagues, with a TeamUG2 approach that means always making time to support and advocate for others.
These four exemplary professionals know the difference it can make to have a strong woman as a role model. In fact, when asked to name the women who inspired them, all four cited their own mothers’ influence.
As Director of Payroll, Union Benefits & Employee Services in Boston, Iris Stymiest cherishes the opportunity to support peers and colleagues. She assures women who are early in their careers that their hard work, compassion, passion and drive will pay off. She also offers a gentle reminder that a woman’s worth isn’t measured by the number of hours invested in everyday career tasks.
After 23 years in the industry, Los Angeles office manager Betty Cortez is known near and far as a trustworthy colleague of impeccable integrity. She brings the wisdom and compassion of a first-generation American who has navigated her career while caring for her family and creating a welcoming home. A role model for many, Betty says, “Be proactive and don’t wait for others to get the work done. Take charge—and don’t be afraid to ask questions.”
Ema Uepi, Assistant Facilities Manager in Redwood City, has been with UG2 for more than half of our existence. She has logged many hours advancing our success through her vital contributions. A champion of diversity, she models excellence and empathy in all she does. To the many women who see her as a mentor, she says, “Holding back is allowing room to second guess yourself and your abilities. You want to be confident and committed in everything you do.”
Our Mid Atlantic Regional HR/Business Manager Maria Tueros strives for continuous improvement while also generously supporting and lifting up the people around her. Maria’s drive and competence were reflected in her success renewing her HR certification on top of excelling at work and caring for her three children. Maria advises women starting out in their careers, “Reach your dreams. Set up a plan, be patient, and your goals and objectives will be compensated.”
ON FINDING BALANCE
BETTY: “As a grandmother of 2 young kids, I look forward to spending quality time with them. It can be at the park, beach or in the back yard. I enjoy my time with my husband and my daughters. It doesn’t matter how old my girls are, they will always be my babies.”
IRIS: “I love a good book, sometimes a simple read, audible books during long commutes to decompress. My family centers me and for that I’m grateful. They allow me the flexibility I need so when we spend the additional hours in the office or weekends they understand. And that reduces the stress in my life and allows me to enjoy building the balance that works for me.”
EMA: “Spending time with family, to recharge both my physical and mental energy.”
MARIA: “I like to escape to the beach and relax—my ‘me time’—enjoy nature, do walks and bike occasionally.”