NEA Women in Business: Linda Wofford

Linda Wofford
President of Engines, Inc. and owner of The Everyday Chef
Residence: Jonesboro
Education: Bachelor’s degree in adult education and human resources

What was your dream job and why? I don’t think I ever really had a dream job. This was not something that was part of our family discussions. My dad worked for the railroad and my mom for the most part was a stay-at-home mom. The one thing that I did learn from them was that no matter what job you had, you do the very best all the time. I learned that having a strong work ethic could open doors and allow you growth opportunities for the future.

What has been the most fulfilling moment of your career so far? Leading the expansion of Engines, Inc. to include additional territory which now includes Arkansas, six western counties in Tennessee, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, New Mexico and Oklahoma.

What’s the next big personal or career challenge you plan to take on? My career challenge the past several years has been to turn over my role at Engines, Inc. to our son, Cameron. It has been so exciting as a parent to watch him grow into this leadership role and see that he has the same values in business that have been a part of Engines since its inception in 1979.

What character traits do you feel have benefited you in your success? Realizing that each person has a place in the success of your business. The greatest assets of any business are its employees and its customers. Taking care of each of these members of your team is paramount to the success or failure of your business.

What advice would you give young women who are at the beginning of their careers? I tell most young people this: When you are starting in business or in the job market, you think about your immediate goals (money, tenure, upward mobility) and that is important to figure out as you start out. As you become a bit older, there comes a time when you begin to think not only of your life, but how you can positively impact the lives of those around you. It becomes more about what you can give back rather than what you can take away.

If you have a bucket list, what are the top three things on it? Travel with my husband to see the Northern Lights, take our grandson traveling, and retire.

Who have been mentors who’ve influenced your professional career? Robert Jones, attorney Waddell, Cole and Jones; Chris Barber, St. Bernards Medical Center. Although I was in business when I met these two men, they have each taught me values that I hold dear.

Robert is not only one of the best attorneys I have known, but also a friend and confidant. His professionalism is above reproach, but it is the way he cares that means the most. Robert cares about family, friends, and community. His leadership in our community has helped bring it forward to where it is today and still he has the vision to take it forward for generations to come.
The same can be said about Chris Barber. Chris has a busy work schedule, but finds time to work with industry leaders in Jonesboro to keep our focus on the future of recruiting and retaining individuals that are necessary for business and industry to flourish in the future.

What’s the last good book you read? “Where the Crawdads Sing”

What’s your favorite app at the moment? Facebook because I can keep in touch with my high school friends as well as family.