Lisa Speller-Martone

How did you get to your current position? What was your path?

After immersing myself in the medical industry for several years, I made a bold career shift, venturing into the realm of telecommunications network design and construction. Prior to joining Google Fiber, I gained valuable experience in various roles at Verizon. In 2016, I seized the opportunity to join Google Fiber as a Program Manager. Within three years, I rose to the position of Lead Program Manager, leading the deployment of fiber networks in North Carolina and Georgia. Two years after that, I achieved a significant milestone in my career when I was promoted to the role of Head of Technical Operations, where I currently lead engineering, construction, installation, and plant maintenance for Google Fiber in NC and GA.

What is an accomplishment you are proud of?

I am especially proud of building a cohesive team through mentoring and motivating others. On my team, I aim to foster an environment where individuals feel supported, motivated, and encouraged to reach their full potential. By serving as a mentor, I have been able to share my knowledge, skills, and experiences with team members, helping them develop their capabilities and grow personally and professionally. I have encouraged open communication, collaboration, and mutual respect among team members. It has been incredibly rewarding to witness my team’s collective success and see them flourish. Seeing some of my team members now step into their own leadership roles and contribute their unique strengths to their teams has reinforced my conviction in the power of mentorship and empowerment. I take great pride in knowing that I have played a part in building a solid and cohesive team that delivers exceptional results and supports and uplifts one another along the way.

What is one thing industry related or not you learned in the last month?

Learning about the Trust Triangle by Francis Frei has changed my perspective. The Trust Triangle framework explores the essence of trust in relationships and organizations. I gained a deep understanding of its three vital components: authenticity, logic, and empathy. Embracing authenticity and integrity, ensuring consistency between words and actions, and fostering empathy have proven invaluable for me. Applying the Trust Triangle principles shows me how to build trust in my personal and professional relationships, overcome challenges, promote collaboration, and establish a culture of transparency. This valuable tool continues to enhance my leadership skills and leads me to have more authentic and trusting relationships.

How do you define success?

Finding the right balance between personal and professional life is crucial, especially for women in leadership positions in the telecommunications industry. For me, it’s all about effectively managing time, setting boundaries, and prioritizing personal well-being alongside work responsibilities. This balance nurtures my mental health, boosts productivity, and helps me build meaningful relationships. When we lead by example and show that it’s possible to blend both aspects of life, we inspire and empower others while challenging societal norms and stereotypes. Ultimately, achieving this balance brings me personal fulfillment and creates a more inclusive and supportive work environment.

Who inspires you?

My career coach, Maureen Lally Martin, has been incredibly inspiring to me. She has a wealth of knowledge and expertise in career development and truly understands my strengths, aspirations, and challenges. She consistently provides me with valuable advice, pushes me out of my comfort zone, and encourages me to pursue my goals confidently. Her passion for others and unwavering support motivate me to achieve great things in my career. I’m grateful to have someone who genuinely cares about my success and believes in my abilities. Maureen will always be a source of inspiration for me.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a woman starting a career in fiber, tech, or construction?

One valuable piece of advice I would give to a woman starting a career in fiber, tech, or construction is to prioritize building a strong support network to navigate challenges and advance your career. Seek out mentors, both male and female, who can provide guidance, share their experiences, and offer valuable insights. For example, I have created a personal board of directors consisting of mentors, sponsors, industry experts, connectors, and role models.