To commemorate Women’s History Month, Strauss Troy is proud to spotlight several exceptional female clients who have made significant strides in their respective careers and industries. These remarkable women have not only achieved success but have also graciously shared insights into the advice they’ve received and shared, the influential women who have inspired them, and their dedication to mentoring and motivating other women.
Today we are highlighting Sherrie Keller. Sherrie is the Vice President and Co-owner of M&M Mid-Valley Service & Supply. Sherrie graduated from the University of Kentucky with a healthcare administration degree and a minor in business and began her career in that field. In 2001, she officially began her career at M&M Service during the acquisition of Mid-Valley Supply. Since that time, she has become an owner and their company has seen tremendous growth. Sherrie currently serves on Board of Education. She is married to Rob Keller and is the mother of four children. She loves to travel and spend time with her family when she is not working.
1. What does Women’s History Month mean to you and why is it important?
I was fortunate to be born when many challenges and obstacles that women faced were already being overcome by trailblazing women before me. However, Women’s History Month is important to me because it represents the original and continued efforts to honor and celebrate the contributions and achievements of women throughout history. It’s an opportunity to highlight our fundamental differences that make us unique. I appreciate that women can hold roles in all fields, without changing our femininity or the fact that we can also choose to become mothers and stay in the home to raise children.
2. How have you witnessed the roles of women change in society over the past decade(s) in your industry?
The industry of petroleum equipment, service, construction, and electric has historically been and is still very much a male dominated industry. I’ve seen the industry indirectly and directly since the 90’s. The roles that women hold now are those of technicians, managers, sales representatives, and owners. I’ve had the privilege of being part of our national affiliation’s, Petroleum Equipment Institute, first effort of “Women in PEI”. Since the inaugural meeting, I’ve seen the group continue to grow and thrive through the years. Directly, I’m pleased to be a part owner of this type of business, with women co-workers who are service technicians, service managers, account managers, accountants, and more!
3. Tell me about an influential woman in your life and how they have impacted you.
I believe the people who are most influential are those closest to us. I was fortunate to have a very influential mother. Not only did she raise four children, she and my dad made the challenging decision to start their own company in 1989 without the backing of financially affluent families, while raising four children, and illustrating the true meaning of hard work. She is a true example of what a woman is capable of! Not only did I get to witness this great reality, she (and my dad) also encouraged me to be independent, able to take care of myself, and educated. If it weren’t for their guidance I would not be where I am today. Now I have the privilege of being an owner, raising my own four children, and enhancing the legacy they started.
4. What is the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever received or like to give?
What often comes to mind when I think of good advice professionally or personally is “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.” I remind myself of this motto when I’m in a difficult situation and I always know that I will ultimately grow in what I learn from it. It’s easy to feel good, confident, and successful when things are going well. It’s much harder to feel that way when things aren’t easy or as expected.
5. Is there anything you do to help mentor or motivate other women or young girls?
Generally speaking, I think being a cheerleader for all girls or women in whatever they are doing goes a long way, offering a smile or words of encouragement is my approach. Specifically, I work directly with several female co-workers to collaborate, encourage, and give each their autonomy to work through problems. I hope that my actions are positive and speak louder than my words!