NEA Women in Business: Lisa John-Adams

Lisa John-Adams
Quality Systems Director
Nucor Steel Arkansas
Residence: Gosnell/Blytheville
Education: Master’s degree in chemistry

What was your dream job and why? I’ve always been intrigued about curing common diseases naturally. So being a researcher of alternative cures and natural remedies for common diseases and making them available to people would be my dream job.

What has been the most fulfilling moment of your career so far? I work for a great company, Nucor, who takes their community stewardship and responsibility very seriously. As such, I have had many fulfilling moments over the years of being involved in supporting many community organizations and city initiatives.

What’s the next big personal or career challenge you plan to take on? I am passionate about education and access to a high standard of education for all. So, I will be looking for ways to effect positive changes in our local schools with the goal of preparing our graduates for successful careers, especially within our local industries.

What character traits do you feel have benefited you in your success? In my career journey, being a person of my word as well as doing everything with a high standard of excellence has given me access to great opportunities and gaining the trust of leaders in my organization.

What advice would you give young women who are at the beginning of their careers? Having a great attitude will open more opportunities than knowledge and skills alone. Being willing to learn, receive feedback and being open to change are keys to advancing in your career.

Can you share how COVID impacted your business or organization? We had to get creative and put new processes in place to keep all our teammates safe. We learned a lot during that time and discovered effective ways of working that we may have never considered before. That experience exemplified the value that our company placed on us — they truly put our welfare first.

If you have a bucket list, what are the top three things on it? Travel through Europe and Asia without a set agenda and visiting places off the beaten path to experience the true culture of those places. Finding family members of my mom’s dad — she never knew her dad. Establish a learning center focused on at-risk kids from 6 months to 5 years, giving them experiences and exposure and a high educational foundation.

How do you spend your time away from work? What are your hobbies? Supporting the nonprofit organizations that I’m involved with (The Haven Domestic Violence Shelter, The Arkansas Community Foundation, The KIPP Delta Schools). My husband and I like to go to the movies when we can get away. I also like connecting with my family and close friends who are scattered all over the world.

What’s the last good book you read? “Crucial Conversations,” by Patterson, Grenny, McMillan and Switzer. This book has helped me fully understand the dynamics of a high-stakes conversation and provided tools for a positive outcome when faced with such conversations. This has been helping me in the workplace and in my personal relationships.