Kathryn Williamson, 27
Manager, Digital Transformation
Crawford Electric Supply
November 2022 marked Kathryn’s four-year anniversary with Crawford Electric Supply—and with this industry. “In November 2018, I started out at Crawford as the digital solutions specialist, responsible for getting both our customers and our associates integrated with our digital tools,” she recalled. “In September 2020, my role adapted into the digital operations specialist. At this point in time, my focus was on maintaining the functionality of our website and building out marketing campaigns to promote our digital capabilities.”
In January 2022, Kathryn was promoted to her current role of manager of digital transformation. “I am currently managing Crawford’s digital team, which is made up of four regional digital business development managers,” she said. “As a team, our mission is to give our customers and associates a way to quickly find information, manage their business activity, and streamline the order-entry process utilizing Crawford’s digital tools. We achieve this via customer visits, internal and external trainings, contests, marketing campaigns, and more.”
Kathryn came into the industry when a good friend approached her about a job opportunity. “She always spoke so highly of Crawford and the family-like culture, so I knew I had to see it for myself,” said Kathryn. “Because I am very people-oriented, working for an organization that supports their associates, encourages friendships, and believes in teamwork is important to me. Crawford has given me everything I need to succeed and feel fulfilled in my work. I am challenged to learn more, solve problems, and use creative thinking daily. Additionally, my colleagues and Crawford’s leadership have made me feel supported, valued, and celebrated every step of the way. I believe Crawford offers the type of culture any person is hoping for from an organization.”
Asked about challenges the industry is currently facing, Kathryn pointed to digitizing business and overcoming supply chain obstacles. “Because this industry has traditionally worked face-to-face, the idea of digitizing our business might seem unappealing and unnecessary,” she explained. “The digital team and I are here to show that is not the case. Incorporating Crawford’s digital tools into the lives of our customers has provided ease to the burden they face when trying to source material, find pricing, or receive an update on where their material is. We are working hard to promote what we have to offer and work with customers to ensure they feel comfortable and confident with their setup. Additionally, manufacturers, distributors, and customers are all struggling to anticipate when they are going to receive material. Thankfully, our digital tools help with this because they communicate what we have on our shelves, when material has been shipped, what has been delayed, and more.”
Kathryn’s next career goal is to be an influential leader. “I want to be a leader that people admire; a leader that can help people grow,” she said. “I am very lucky in that I have an incredible manager who has played a big role in my growth as a professional. My experience with her inspires me to pay it forward and be that person for someone else. To become an influential leader, I participated in the WOMEN Unlimited, Inc. IMpower Program last year. This program brought women from a variety of industries together and taught us how to be exceptional professionals, colleagues, and leaders. I also attended NAED’s LEAD Conference, which featured leadership training and education based on NAED’s Leadership Development Program. I have learned so much within the last year and plan to continue my education in becoming an influential leader.”
Asked what she would tell someone just entering the industry, Kathryn noted that the electrical distribution industry has a lot to offer. “If you’re looking for community, look no further,” she said. “This industry is filled with lifetime friendships and family-like cultures across the board. If you like to be challenged and grow, you’ll be satisfied. There is an endless amount of information to learn in this industry and a plethora of resources and first-hand experts to teach you along the way. If you’re searching for a sense of purpose, you’ll find comfort in helping businesses get the resources they need to provide necessary services to their customers. Any individual can find happiness and success in this industry.”
When she’s not working, Kathryn enjoys spending time with friends and family. “My husband and I love to host game nights with friends, go out to eat, watch movies, and spend time with our family. Community is very important to me, so I feel very grateful that I have so many of the people that I love in Houston,” she said. “When we’re not with family or friends, I love going for long walks, reading a good book, and daydreaming about where I’d like to travel to next.”
Each year tED magazine recognizes 30 of the industry’s best and brightest under the age of 35. Please visit tedmag.com/30Under35 for nomination information and updates about the 2023 program. Questions can be sent to tED Editor Misty Byers at mbyers@naed.org.
Tagged with 2022 30 Under 35, 30 under 35, people