Dionne's career journey is a testament to the power of adaptability and perseverance.
With a background in physics, Dionne’s path to becoming a program manager at H&P is as diverse as it is inspiring. “I have my bachelor's and master's in physics,” she began, reminiscing about her early ambitions.
Starting as a contractor at H&P in May 2021, Dionne quickly made her mark and was converted to a full-time employee by January 2022. Now an integral part of the Enterprise Project Management Office, her journey to this point is a fascinating tale of navigating through various industries, from telecom and financial services to higher education and beyond.
Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Dionne's journey has taken her from Southern University A&M College to Kent State University in Ohio to the bustling job markets of Texas. Her keen insight and pioneering approach have fueled her career across industries such as telecom, travel, finance, higher education and warehouse. Now, she thrives in the oil and gas sector at H&P, where her diverse experiences and innovative mindset are shaping the future of project management.
Reflecting on her extensive journey, Dionne highlights the importance of finding the right cultural fit. “Sometimes it's not always about money. It's about having the right fit and having the right balance and support,” she says. Her decision to join H&P was solidified by the company's welcoming environment and alignment with her personal values. “It was refreshing to find a place where people live the values they preach. That’s why I’m here to stay.”
A typical day for Dionne involves aligning with project stakeholders, supporting her team and ensuring that projects stay on track. “I love the chaos of infrastructure,” she says with a laugh. “I didn't want to be confined to one area, and this role keeps me on my toes, working with the various teams across H&P.”
Outside of work, Dionne is on the board of the Fort Worth Project Management Institute Chapter as the vice president of professional development and also supports North Texas LEAD, a leadership diversity initiative, when called upon as a candidate alum. She also volunteers at her church where she participates in community events and tutors adults. “I love paying it forward,” she said. “It’s about seeing the potential in people and looking forward to their success.”
Her advice to aspiring project managers is simple: “Be yourself, stay positive and be passionate about what you do. Your passion will shine through and make a difference.”
Reflecting on her own journey, she emphasized how H&P’s core values have aligned with her values.
“Actively C.A.R.E. truly embodies who I am,” she emphasized. “During my time in Change Champions, I resonated deeply with Service Attitude and Innovative Spirit. Teamwork and effective clear communication, in my opinion, is the cornerstone for steering programs toward success. Additionally, adhering to the principle of Do The Right Thing is indispensable when navigating challenges and devising solutions.”