2022 Industry Leaders: Rachel Ataman, Touchstone Environmental Geology, PC

Nominee’s Name & Job Title: Rachel Ataman, President

Nominee’s Company/Affiliation: Touchstone Environmental Geology, PC

Nominee’s City & State of Employment: Centereach, NY

What aspect of your position do you find most challenging?

The most challenging part of being a leader of your own firm is being responsible for all components of your business from client management and bookkeeping to technical direction. These roles go beyond just being a leader and a motivator. They go beyond being a geologist. They require you to challenge yourself every day, to humble yourself and to trust your own your decisions. Being a business owner is extremely challenging but being a leader comes second nature to me and I enjoy the challenges of owning and operating my business.

What advice would you give the next generation of leaders in your industry?

Your personal leadership style will take time to cultivate and is not something that you are typically taught in school. Reading books or listening to podcasts on leadership or biographies about great leaders will offer ideas and insight on being good leader.