The global licensing community is powered by an incredible group of professionals whose diverse backgrounds and creative energy drive innovation and excellence. Each week we profile one of these professionals in this ongoing series.

How did you get into licensing (or how did licensing find you)?
I actually stumbled into licensing by chance—I didn’t even know this industry existed! I was browsing Department of the Air Force job openings, looking to move from my marketing and advertising role with the U.S. Army to something closer to home with a shorter commute. I came across the position and thought, ‘That looks interesting—I can do that!’ I applied, got the job, and it ended up being a great fit. It’s been an awesome way to build on my marketing background while learning a whole new side of brand and trademark management.

What’s a “typical” day in your current position?
No two days are exactly the same, but a typical day in my role usually involves reviewing requests from the public—often for matters like veteran memorials or community projects that want to feature Air Force or Space Force marks. I also work closely with Air Force and Space Force members to make sure our brand is used correctly across various initiatives. On the licensing side, I spend a good part of my day reviewing artwork submissions from licensees, answering questions about their agreements or use of our brands, and helping them navigate the process. I also regularly conduct onboarding sessions—usually weekly—for new licensees to walk them through our guidelines and set them up for success. It’s a great mix of creative review, collaboration, and helping others represent the Department of the Air Force mission with respect and accuracy.

What’s your biggest personal or professional accomplishment?
As an Air Force veteran and military spouse, one of my biggest personal and professional accomplishments has been my ability to grow and make an impact wherever we’ve been stationed. Frequent relocations can make it tough to stay in one role for long, but I’ve learned to approach each move as a new opportunity. I’ve had the chance to grow not just in one field, but across a range of roles—each one adding to my experience and broadening my perspective. No matter where I’ve worked, I’ve always strived to leave things better than I found them. I’m especially proud that through all the transitions, I’ve been able to stay on a career path that aligns with my strengths and interests while continuing to contribute in meaningful ways.

What are the most significant trends or changes that you’ve seen in the business in recent years?
One of the biggest changes I’ve seen in recent years is how much the licensing industry has grown overall. What’s been especially interesting is seeing brands that aren’t necessarily your typical household names get creative and think outside the box when it comes to using licensing as a strategy. They’re finding innovative ways to build awareness, reach new audiences, and drive sales—often in ways that go beyond traditional product categories. It’s exciting to see how flexible and strategic licensing has become for so many different types of brands.

What keeps you up at night? What’s your biggest challenge these days?
One of the biggest challenges I work through is finding creative ways to maximize the potential of licensing within the unique structure of a federal entity. While we operate within the necessary guidelines and guardrails—which are there to protect the integrity of the brand—they can sometimes limit the kind of flexibility you see in the commercial space. That said, I see it as an opportunity to be innovative, creative, and think more strategically. What keeps me up at night is the strategic ideas constantly running through my head about ways to maximize the impact of licensing while not only growing our program but also helping to push our department and the Department of the Air Force mission forward—balancing innovation with compliance.

In your opinion, what is the top skill every licensing executive should have in order to succeed?
I think adaptability is one of the most important skills a licensing executive can have. You have to be open to the idea that your brand(s) might evolve in ways you hadn’t originally imagined—and sometimes that means being willing to take calculated risks to explore new opportunities. Adaptability also comes into play when adjusting your licensing program in response to shifts in legislation, government policy, and C-suite’s vision. Licensing programs don’t stay static—they’re flexible to achieve success.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, or what’s your favorite quote?
My favorite quote is, “I never lose. I either win or learn.” – Nelson Mandela

What is your favorite licensing deal of all time? (It doesn’t have to be one that was signed by you.)
I don’t know that I have a favorite licensing deal of all time—what I really enjoy is seeing how different brands come together to create something unique or meaningful that enhances the customer experience. Each collaboration has something to teach, and I love seeing the creativity that comes out of it. That said, I always get a little extra excited when I see adult beverage brands involved—maybe because I personally enjoy a good drink! 

If you weren’t in licensing, what would you be doing now?
If I weren’t in licensing, I’d most likely be working in a marketing role, business development, or some other position with the Department of Defense.

The last licensed product I bought was…
Honestly, I can’t remember the last licensed product I bought—but I do know one was probably an Air Force t-shirt! It’s hard not to have a few pieces of branded gear around.