In 2024, WBENC continues its inspiring tradition by celebrating the WBE Stars for their remarkable achievements, contributing invaluable leadership, innovation, and influence on the dynamic business landscape. Each handpicked by one of the 14 Regional Partner Organizations (RPOs), these women serve as a wellspring of inspiration for others within their communities. The recognition they receive through the WBE Star Award is a powerful testament to the profound impact they’ve made in their respective business environments.
The 2024 WBE Stars received their accolades at the vibrant WBENC National Conference, a grand event held from March 19-22, 2024, in Denver, Colorado. This conference was a hub of innovation and networking, drawing nearly 5,000 entrepreneurs and business leaders who celebrated the accomplishments of these extraordinary women.
But the celebration doesn’t end there. Throughout 2024, WBENC will continue to spotlight these trailblazing women in various dynamic formats, including an engaging article series and captivating feature articles in WE USA Magazine this summer. Prepare to be inspired!
Meet Patricia Thomasson, CEO and Chairwoman of Thomasson Company (TC), with the Women’s Business Enterprise Council South (WBEC South) Regional Partner Organization. Pat grew up in the lumber business and was seven when her parents established their wholesale lumber company. “TC was truly a family business,” Pat said. “Many of my memories center around time spent at the office and the different jobs I would be given. My parents were better at different things, but they both helped me to appreciate that every business function is essential and important. We had a lot of ups and downs, but my parents taught me to be strong, work hard and appreciate my co-workers.”
The early business experience and a solid moral compass have given Pat a lot of credibility throughout the business community. Prior to assuming the role of CEO leading the family business, Pat worked at Arthur Anderson in New Orleans, the Mississippi Secretary of State’s Office in Jackson, and held many other hats at TC.
Get inspired by Patricia and stay tuned for our 2024 WBENC Stars article series throughout 2024!
Thomasson Company supplies utility companies with utility poles which are used to support overhead power lines and various other public utilities, such as electrical cable, fiber optic cable, and related equipment such as transformers and streetlights. We also provide utility and energy companies with crane mats. These mats provide surfaces which protect wetlands and fields during various utility operations such as building pipelines and transmission lines.
They have been able to utilize diverse companies in our supply chain. This has allowed them to approach opportunities in a different manner, broaden our supplier base, or enhance our product delivery time. Under Pat’s leadership, Thomasson Company was recognized with the 2012 Mississippi Governor’s Cup Award for Small Business, 2015 Neshoba County Large Business of the Year Award, 2016 ONCOR Omnis Supplier Award, 2016 Iberdrola Diversity Supplier of the Year finalist, 2017 Vistra Energy Supplier Diversity Gold Star Supplier Award, and the 2019 Women’s Business Enterprise Council South’s Supplier of the Year.
The 2024 theme is AMPLIFY. What does AMPLIFY mean to you?
“Enhanced action in areas you deem important.”
When and how was your business started?
Helen and Hugh Thomasson, my parents, founded Thomasson in 1972 as a brokerage lumber company.
What is one way you recommend people to “AMPLIFY” the impact of the WBENC network in the next 2 years?
Attend meetings and make friends. Many times, WBEs share common organizational and personal struggles. I have learned a great deal from other WBEs on how to overcome issues and make my company better.
How are you planning to AMPLIFY the mission of the WBENC network during your time as a WBE Star?
I plan to assist other WBE’s in growing their business by sharing my experience and knowledge with them. I also plan to make my business associates aware of WBEs who I think will be a good fit for them.
Provide an example of how innovation helped you overcome a challenge, pivot, or adapt your business.
Wood products are a renewable resource which can be used for carbon storage. Helping individuals understand the importance of utilizing wood products in a way which benefits the environment is a constant challenge. We work with the Mississippi State University Department of Sustainable Bioproducts to meet this challenge and make our industry stronger.
What areas of innovation do you foresee for women entrepreneurs over the next few years?
I see tremendous opportunity in solving supply chain and work force issues. Women who bring creative and affordable solutions to these areas will succeed across industry lines.
What have you learned about yourself as a leader from mentoring or coaching others?
I have learned that I get a great deal of joy out of assisting others in being their better self. Sometimes the benefits are instant. In some cases, I have been surprises decades later when I learn how I helped shape a decision, business, or life.
What do you view as benefits of being part of the WBENC network?
The exposure I have had to buyers, suppliers and other WBEs has given me a chance to sell my product, source vendors, and make friends. These connections have helped me grow my company and have the support of other women business owners.
How has engaging in the WBENC Network as a Certified WBE helped your company?
Being engaged in the WBENC network has helped me get my foot in the door with many companies over the years.
What suggestions would you like to share with a newly certified WBE who is looking to get involved in the WBENC community?
I suggest the WBE go to meetings prepared, learn all she can, socialize with everyone, and form friendships. You have to show up for the magic to happen.
