;)
Hello, my name is Tonya Hicks. I am 39 and I live in Atlanta, Ga. I am a single mom to two sons: Rashadim (17) and Vincent (5). Don't ask! The fourth member of our family is our Cocker Spaniel; Scar (3).
I have been a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers since 1994. I am the first woman journeyman electrician of Local 917 in Meridian, Miss. Yes, it took that long to kick the door down! It takes five years of apprenticeship to become an electrician in the union. People ask me all the time was it hard. Well....hell yeah! I'm black, female, only woman, in Mississippi; need I say more? Do I regret it? Not a moment. How did I do it? They didn't see me comin!
I am a serial entrepreneur. I founded an electrical contracting and engineering firm in 2000. Majority of my business is commercial. Our business has expanded to become a full service maintenance company. In 2005, I started an apparel company called MaryAnnWorks. I designed a line of clothing for women in construction and uniformed services.
My favorite thing to do was cooking. But my new love is gardening. It's relaxing and a fun thing to do with my son, Vincent. I'm half Martha Stewart and half Oprah. Not really, but I'm working on it! These women inspire me because of there intellegence, tenacity, and generosity. They are great home makers and a "beast" when it comes to business! I'm learning how to relax and take better care of myself. I love to work! If I could extend the hours of the day, I would. I'm a morning person; 4 a.m. and I'm ready to go! If Oprah asked me what I knew for sure it would be: 'Everyday you are blessed to live is an opportunity to learn more, be more, and give more!'