Discovering Leadership Strengths
How Leila Boulos Transformed Self-Awareness Into Professional Growth
Leila Boulos, project closeout engineer at the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), completed NC State Executive Education’s Women in Technical Leadership program in June 2023. Her reflections on her experience demonstrate that professional growth isn’t always about dramatic career changes—sometimes it’s about developing the self-awareness and confidence to excel wherever you are, even within challenging environments.
Building Confidence Through Self-Discovery
Leila entered the program as an assistant resident engineer at NCDOT, already experienced in managing complex transportation projects. What she gained, however, was something more fundamental: confidence in her own perspective and approach.
“I love that the program pushed for us to build confidence in ourselves and what we do and what we believe,” Leila reflected. “I think that as I gain experience and grow, I build confidence and speak up about what ideas I have and am freer in giving my perspective.”
This newfound confidence has translated into practical changes in how she approaches her work. “I like to write my goals down now and take baby steps towards them,” she shared. “I’m paying closer attention to what qualities my coworkers and leaders have so I can better navigate them.”
Understanding Your Leadership Style
Among the program’s various components, one assessment made a particularly lasting impression on Leila.
“Prior to the program, we completed an assessment to help determine our leadership style, similar to how the Myers-Briggs test works,” she explained.
The assessment and activities surrounding it helped Leila understand how to leverage her natural strengths to hone her leadership skills.
“What I loved about the program is how they dove deep into what that means for me personally, at work, as a leader, and on a team,” Leila shared.
“I really enjoyed getting to learn more about myself and those qualities that are great, but also some qualities that may not be helpful to others when working with me. I love learning how to utilize my skills and characteristics to be more efficient and to really just be self aware!”
Navigating Unique Challenges
Working in government engineering presents particular challenges, and Leila found the program’s approach to addressing real-world obstacles especially valuable.
“I work for the government… It was challenging to hear all these accomplished women talk about their successes when I was part of a system that doesn’t necessarily encourage change and movement.”
Despite these systemic challenges, Leila has found ways to apply her learning within her environment. “I am still working for the government, but I was able to apply what I’ve learned in my own ways, in my own little world.
“It is difficult being a woman in engineering sometimes, but having this program acknowledge those challenges and help work them out has made a meaningful difference.”
Ready for More
For those considering the program, Leila’s advice is direct and encouraging.
“This program is there if you are ready for more,” she emphasized. “It’s going to push you to think of who you are, what you want, and to make sure you have the resources to meet your goals. I felt challenged to reach my true potential.”
Her experience demonstrates that professional growth isn’t always about dramatic career changes—sometimes it’s about developing the self-awareness and confidence to excel wherever you are, even within challenging environments.
Why Women in Technical Leadership Matters
The NC State Women in Technical Leadership experience is not just for women—it’s designed for all early-to-mid-career professionals in technical fields seeking greater leadership impact.
The program’s three-day intensive curriculum covers:
- Organizational Change Leadership
- Strategic Thinking & Decision-Making
- Emotional Intelligence & Communication
- Career Development Strategies
- Work-Life Integration & Executive Coaching
Participants walk away with actionable leadership frameworks, expanded professional networks, and practical tools to navigate complex workplace challenges.
Learn more about the Women in Technical Leadership program at execed.poole.ncsu.edu, or contact us at executiveeducation@ncsu.edu.
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