“One thing I’ve realized is that there are so many different career paths here. You can truly shape your own journey,” says Laura Barnard, Director of Bid Management at Lewis Services. “I had no idea that I’d be given the opportunity to serve in multiple roles in 11 years.” Laura’s path from field operations to corporate headquarters demonstrates her many skills and talents, and showcases the internal mobility and growth potential that Lewis offers to dedicated employees. Para leer este artículo en español, haga clic aquí.
#LewisChoice: Laura Barnard's Path Through the Trees
Laura Barnard (R) with members of the Lewis corporate team
In taking the reins of the Bid Management activities, Laura plays a pivotal role in expanding the company’s customer portfolio and entering new service areas. Stradling both field operations and corporate functions to lead hybrid teams on the exploration of new opportunities for the company, Laura is working to position Lewis for long-term growth.
What triggered my interest in Lewis was the way they treated their people
This endeavor requires a leader with strong business acumen, deep understanding of both existing markets and emerging opportunities, and a disciplined approach to ensuring that Lewis remains a leader in the industry – all traits that Laura possesses and exemplifies.
Laura didn’t start her career in vegetation management on the contractor side. Instead, she began as a customer, working in various roles at a utility. This is where she first encountered Lewis Services as a partner company. With a degree in forestry, she spent a decade as a forester and analyst before deciding to take a different path - one that led her to Lewis.
“What triggered my interest in Lewis was the way they treated their people,” Laura recalls. “It was clear that they valued their workforce, and that was important to me.”
She joined Lewis as a customer liaison in Connecticut, then took on a leadership role as an acting Division Manager in Ohio. She later returned to New England as a Division Manager before transitioning to the corporate office as a Project Manager and then Director of the newly-created Project Management Office (PMO). Laura’s invaluable experience with both Operations and Corporate teams has helped to foster project alignment. Her ability to bring cross-functional teams together, coupled with a strong work ethic, has positioned her as a trusted colleague and leader.
Beyond her technical expertise, Laura is recognized for her thoughtful and deliberative leadership style. She approaches challenges with a strategic mindset, ensuring that every decision she makes benefits both employees and the company as a whole. Her quiet yet confident leadership has earned the respect of colleagues across all levels of the organization.
When asked what she would say to someone considering a career at Lewis, Laura keeps it simple: “If you’re looking to switch things up, consider Lewis. It’s a great place to be, and the possibilities here are endless.”
From forestry to leadership, Laura Barnard's journey exemplifies why so many choose Lewis - and why they stay. Her story is one of continuous growth, adaptability, and a steadfast commitment to making Lewis a better place for its people and its customers.
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Ready to consider making the Lewis Choice?
If you’re looking to switch things up, consider Lewis.
It’s a great place to be