Name: Brenda Burdick
Place of Employment: General Dynamics Mission Systems, Pittsfield, MA
Title: Senior Manager, Strategic Communications
What is your 3 sentence biography? / What is your personal elevator pitch?
I am responsible for the business’ marketing, communications, community relations and public relations. I also support government relations for Massachusetts-based initiatives. I have nearly 30 years of experience as a marketing professional, with twenty-three years in the defense industry. I am passionate about the Berkshires and dedicated to working with people and organizations that are helping to improve the local economy.
Tell us about a challenge you faced on your path, and what you learned from it.
When graduating from Bryant University, I initially thought I would have to move away from Berkshire County in order to have a successful career. Rather than giving up and looking outside our region, I began looking for marketing and public relations jobs right here in the Berkshires. I started working at Canyon Ranch in Lenox just before its grand opening the summer after graduation. I received tremendous exposure to media professionals and journalists – more than I would have received if I left the region. Who knows where I would be now if I didn’t give the Berkshires a chance!?
What “secret to success” would you share with young women entering the (Berkshire) workforce?
The advice I would share with young women entering the workforce is to always keep an open mind, never give up on a dream and don’t doubt that you are capable of performing a job that excites you. I’ve seen too many young women limit themselves by not applying for a position because they might not have one of the requirements. Look at the job and if it excites you, apply for it!
What Berkshire women in business inspire you and why?
Two of the women in the Berkshires that inspire me are Kris Hazzard, CEO of the Berkshire United Way and Ellen Kennedy, president of Berkshire Community College. Their commitment to making the Berkshires a better place for everyone to learn, live and work inspires me. They are ultimate professionals who care deeply about our youth, our region, and our economic prosperity. Oftentimes, they put the success of others before themselves.