Upper Valley at Work
Meet
Mary Ellen Otis		 Joan Ecker
photo © Geoff Hansen
 
Hometown: North Pomfret, VT
Current Profession: Director, Parent Child Center
Other jobs held: consultant, early education program teacher and director, waitress/hostess, deli manager, deli cook
Hobbies/Interests: gardening, being outdoors, sewing & knitting, reading, word puzzles
Strengths: communication skills, sense of humor, optimism, patience, ability to collaborate

Judy Jorgensen Download this profile

Questionsclick to ask me a question

How do you use your strengths in your job?
Today's young families face many challenges, and I believe in parents' desire to help their children have a good life. When the going gets tough and the challenges seem most pressing, I find it helpful to tap into my strengths—dig in, work harder and appreciate the humor in a situation whenever possible.

What was your biggest learning challenge in school?
I talked too much! Talking when I wasn't supposed to was the thing that got me in trouble most often.

What motivates you to go to work?
I am passionate about the value of the work I do. Children are our most important asset and deserve the best start possible. Raising kids is a hard job, and it is a privilege to support families in this important work.

Every job has specific skills. What do you need in yours?
Written and oral communication skills, financial management, flexibility