We are thrilled that two of our board members, Kate Janeway and Jenette Ramos, were selected as women of influence by the Puget Sound Business Journal in November 2018.
We spoke with Kate and Jenette to congratulate them on this distinction, and learn more about their inspirations, dedication, and commitment to the Conservancy’s mission.
Conservancy Board member Jenette Ramos is Senior Vice President of Manufacturing, Supply Chain and Operations at The Boeing Company. Originally intending to follow her mother’s footsteps into medicine, Jenette instead found herself with a summer job, and then a full time position, with Boeing, in the environmental lab. Jenette embraced her new corporate pathway, earning an MBA from Seattle Pacific University and graduating from the Harvard Business School Advanced Management Program.
Jenette’s role overseeing manufacturing, supply chain and operations for Boeing keeps her extremely busy, and traveling a great deal of the time. So we are especially honored that she finds time to be on our Board of Trustees, and remains dedicated to environmental issues.
We caught up with Jenette to get to know her a little, and learn how she integrates her commitment to the environment with her roles at Boeing and the Conservancy.
The Nature Conservancy: Did you grow up in Washington? Was there anything in particular that originally inspired your strong connection to conservation and the environment?
Jenette Ramos: My grandparents settled in Tacoma on a relocation to McChord Air Force Base for my grandfather’s last assignment. My father was also in the Air Force. Although we lived in Connecticut, Oregon and South Carolina, we settled back in Tacoma when he started a business. My parents taught us to appreciate nature as we traveled and camped coast to coast about six times, visiting almost every state.
TNC: You started your career at Boeing 30 years ago, as an environmental engineer. What influenced your decision on education and career?
Jenette: My mom was a physician and inspired me to study chemistry and pre-med. After my first year in college, I had a summer job at the Boeing Renton plant. Working along the shores of Lake Washington, I became curious about the science of environmental protection. During my third summer, I was offered a job as a facilities engineer, focused on environmental protection.
TNC: Since then, you’ve moved into a top management position. Do you still see a connection between your current work at Boeing and conservation and the environment?
Jenette: Absolutely. At Boeing, our people are providing the most efficient products and services for our customers. Our environment strategy is dedicated to environmental leadership, and highlights the importance of an integrated approach.
TNC: How long have you been on the board of the Nature Conservancy, and what made you decide to join?
Jenette: I have been a trustee with the Nature Conservancy for almost a decade. I am personally committed to our mission to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends.
TNC: What’s the best thing about being on the board for the Conservancy in Washington?
Jenette: The people of TNC are the best thing about being on the board. I have a deep respect for the global expertise and commitment of our TNC professionals, volunteers and leaders.
TNC: As a board member, what are your long term goals for the Conservancy here?
Jenette: As the planet evolves, we must continue to find ways to preserve nature and invest in the future. Long-term, our challenge will be to solve for the whole ecosystem and to sustain an integrated plan, with measurable outcomes, and where diverse communities are engaged with their hearts and minds.
TNC: Again, congratulations on being honored by Puget Sound Business Journal! Any final thoughts on that?
Jenette: It certainly is an honor to be selected by Puget Sound Business Journal as a woman of influence. I am enormously grateful for the women who broke glass ceilings before us and will continue to advocate for the environment in my work.
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