Our Julie Sferes is an ISA Award Winner!
This year, the Industrial Supply Association (ISA) launched a new award, the Women’s Influence Award. We’re excited to announce that our own Julie Sferes is the inaugural ISA award winner. Julie is the Business Operations Director for our New England branches.
Women’s Influence Award
The ISA Women’s Influence Award honors an individual’s commitment to advancing the development and influence of women in the industrial supply channel. Selection criteria include:
- Demonstrating a personal passion for advancing women in the industry
- Contributing to their company and the industry in ways that further women in the industry
- Making a positive impact on women in the industry
- Earning awards, citations, etc. by other organizations and companies
As you will see, Julie’s drive and commitment to influence women both personally and professionally are what make her an ISA award winner.
A Deep History in Industrial Supply
Julie grew up working for her family’s business, Oaks Electric. As a kid, she helped out while learning from her father and grandfather as they grew the company through acquisitions and expansion into new markets. She took her first formal role with the company after graduating from college in 1996. In 2000, Oaks Electric merged with Holmes Distribution and RERO Distribution to form Horizon Solutions. Throughout her 25-year career, she has risen to roles of increasing responsibility based on her track record of being a fast learner, hard worker, and great leader. Julie is well respected by her peers, coworkers, customers, and suppliers. No one who knows her is surprised that she is an ISA award winner.
An Inspiration to Women in the Industry
Julie is more than a woman in the industry—she is an inspiration to and active influence on others. It is her multifaceted work with women that makes her an ISA award winner.
At Horizon Solutions
Here at Horizon Solutions, she is a founding member of our Women in Industry Group. She leads monthly meetings to support and empower employees who identify as women to achieve success. The group provides opportunities for women to connect and support each other along their personal and professional journeys.
Amongst Her Peers
Julie participates in a women’s network within ISA, the Women in Industry Network. This network fosters engaged professional women, leveraging expertise and relationships, focusing on developing women leaders.
In Her Community
As a member of Women United of Greater Portland (ME), she empowers women and promotes the development of their children. Women United members take a two-generational approach, giving, advocating, and volunteering to support programs that advance single mothers and their children.
Proud to Have an ISA Award Winner
When we made the announcement on social media last week, the comments of congratulations came pouring in from both inside and out of the company.
Upon hearing Julie won the ISA Women’s Influence Award, our president and CEO said: