Being able to inspire change is key to being a good leader. But more importantly, a leader needs to have the humility to reflect on when their capacity for driving that change has expired.
Joining us today is the former CEO of the Society of Women Engineers and former AVP of admin and operations at DePaul University, Betty Shanahan to discuss her remarkable career arc.
In this conversation, you’ll hear all about what inspired Betty to get into engineering, her education, career highlights, her time at the Society of Women Engineers, and so much more! We delve into her efforts through DePaul University to bring computer sciences into high schools in Chicago before Betty tells us about the importance of working on your career outside of your job and furthering your knowledge and skills.
We discuss balancing work and life, leadership, knowing when it’s time to step down as a leader, and celebrating your achievements as an engineer. Finally, Betty answers our rapid-fire questions and shares her favorite quotes, must-read books, her ideal dinner guests if she could invite anyone (dead or alive!), and what she hopes her legacy will be.
To hear all this and be reminded that you can get through any struggles you may face, tune in now!
Key Points From This Episode:
• Working on your career outside your job and balancing work/home life.
• What makes a good leader and the importance of knowing when your time is up.
• Why engineers need to celebrate their large achievements.
Quotes:
“When you struggle, you recognize [that] other people have [also] struggled and worked through it and continued to be successful.” — Betty Shanahan
“A lot of being a good leader is the humility of saying: ‘I don’t know a lot’.”— Betty Shanahan
“Engineers are responsible for our health, happiness, and safety. So all of us, as engineers, are contributing to the country, to individuals in our work. So we need to celebrate our large achievements as engineers.” — Betty Shanahan
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
What is Leadership Blueprints?
Leadership Blueprints is a podcast dedicated to helping leaders align teams, navigate chaos, and accomplish the mission. Hosted by BJ Kraemer—West Point graduate, combat veteran, and President & CEO of MCFA—this show dives into the principles, stories, and strategies behind effective leadership.
With a background in military service and experience leading teams in business, infrastructure, and complex projects, BJ understands that success comes down to execution, adaptability, and leading people well. Through in-depth interviews with accomplished leaders across business, sports, the military, and beyond, Leadership Blueprints will help you bring your vision to reality on projects that shape communities and industries.
Whether you’re leading in the boardroom, on the field, in the military, or within your own organization, this podcast is designed to provide the tools and mindset needed to lead with clarity, resilience, and purpose. Subscribe now and start building your Leadership Blueprint.