Originally published in Portland Business Journal “40 under 40”.
The sky’s the limit for Brenda Weiler, the chief administrative officer and chief of staff at Life Flight Network, a nonprofit emergency medical transportation company. Over her 16 years with Life Flight, Weiler has gone from administrative assistant to her current role, which includes managing 50-plus aircraft across four states as well as overseeing multiple departments and more than 900 employees. Her informal leadership style belies her ability to effect change, and she is involved in all business decisions at Life Flight. Weiler continues to focus her efforts where she feels she can have the most direct impact, developing the women’s mentorship program that empowers women to rise above their own expectations.
What are your best leadership qualities and why?
I lead by example. I hold myself to the same high standards as those around me to contribute positively toward what we’re trying to accomplish. I’m focused on creating space for others to bring their great ideas to the table and to excel.
What’s been your career high so far?
One of the things I’m most proud of is that I got to contribute to bringing an incredible, lifesaving resource to the community where I grew up. Before we opened our base in Lewiston, Idaho, patients in the area would have to wait for a helicopter or airplane from Spokane or travel hours in a ground ambulance. Traditionally, air medical resources were based in metropolitan areas. As Life Flight Network grew over the years, we expanded into rural communities throughout the Pacific Northwest and Intermountain West.
What’s a challenge you’ve faced that ultimately made you a better leader?
I learned early in my career to value people’s differences and the variety of skills they bring to the table rather than getting hung up on what a person can’t do or can’t do as well as someone else.
What’s something about you that might surprise others?
I hold the girls record at my middle school for the most consecutive pull ups (a skill I sadly no longer possess).
Tell us about a favorite professional mentor
A favorite professional mentor of mine is someone I had the pleasure of working with for about 13 years. He helped me appreciate the importance of producing high-quality work and not settling for less than our best effort.
What advice do you have for younger professionals?
To borrow a line from Ted Lasso, “Be curious, not judgmental.” Also, be inquisitive, and don’t be afraid of receiving constructive feedback. Approach work with an open mind.
