MEMPHIS, Tenn., March 8, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- American Residential Services (ARS), a Memphis, Tenn. based, privately-held national provider of air conditioning, heating and plumbing services, is recognizing several women in their organization for International Women's Day. Despite being the largest company in an industry that is viewed as predominately male, ARS has created a culture that promotes women in the workplace, and they are happy to brag about their leading ladies.

"As a company, ARS is dedicated to providing equal opportunities for everyone," says Luis Orbegoso, President and COO of ARS/Rescue Rooter. "We are very proud of our team, but today we recognize some of our outstanding female employees from different levels and various locations across our business." The following women are breaking down the preconceived barriers of women in the HVAC and plumbing industry.

Terri Furgeson has been in the plumbing industry for over 21 years. Terri's hard work and outstanding customer reviews in a male-dominated industry makes her longevity as a plumbing professional remarkable. Considering her father was a plumber and she spent years since her adolescence learning skills of the plumbing trade from him, Terri's decision to enter the industry was natural. "I love to fix things, and not just piping and product. I like to problem solve and make a homeowner the happiest they can be with my work," says Terri. When asked why she navigates well in areas that are otherwise viewed as "masculine," Terri replies, "You have to have a big personality and the ability to get along with people. When customers answer the door and see me, they often say 'You're the only girl plumber I have ever seen!' I tell them 'Me, too!'"

Brittany Spencer is the General Manager of Allgood Plumbing, Electric, Heating and Cooling, our branch in Atlanta, Georgia. She has been with the company for over 5 years and has stayed because she is attracted to our commitment to excellent customer service and community. Brittany decided to pursue a career in the HVAC and plumbing industry because she recognized our culture of growth. To women who are interested in pursuing a profession in a male-dominated industry, Brittany says, "Don't be intimidated; prove yourself by working hard and doing an amazing job. Stay positive, drive results, and fiercely protect your work culture."

Janice Harris has a strong background in Customer Service with over 20 years of experience. She has been with ARS for the past 5 years and is currently based in our corporate offices as our Customer Relations Manager. "Never think that you have to know everything about a particular area or subject before you pursue it," Janice explains. "When I first started this job, I didn't know much about HVAC and plumbing. If you move forward with a positive mindset, build great relationships, do your research, have the will to want to learn, and sheer determination, you can succeed in any industry. The world is ever-changing, and I find that there is room for anyone who wants to succeed!"

Ashley Costner-Montoya, recently promoted to Director of Process Improvement, has been working for American Residential Services for 7 years, with a total of 15 years at Brothers Air. "I feel so blessed to be a part of a community that cares about people both inside and outside its doors," Ashley explains. Since birth, she has grown up with family in the industry, so when given the opportunity to do the same she couldn't refuse. Ashley encourages women in the workforce to "Speak up. Trust yourself and trust in the expertise and experience you bring to the table."

Mary King began her career in the HVAC and plumbing industry almost 24 years ago as a part-time dispatcher at Rescue Rooter in St. Louis. After her move to the corporate offices in Memphis, TN, Mary's career shifted into the IT department, where she is now Director of IT Business Solutions. "In this day and age, it is much more important to show your worth by bringing value to whatever it is you are doing. Don't hold back because you may be the only female in the room. Show your strength and your worth. Show that you hold valuable knowledge and it will does matter that you are female."

Valencia Williams has been a Service Technician at ARS for 9 months. So far, her career at ARS has been a fulfilling one: "This company has invested time in my continued growth of education and experience and has allowed me to spread my wings." When deciding what career she wanted to pursue, Valencia desired something more challenging and somewhere she could grow. At her school and training, she was the first woman to enroll and the first woman to graduate. Valencia wants woman to "believe in themselves and never give up."

Jessica Yawn holds a few different roles at Unique Services including Call Center Manager, Quality Assurance Manager, and a key role in Dispatch Management. Jessica explains she has "always wanted to obtain a career in a" non-traditional" field." Growing up, her father owned a mechanic shop where she worked most of her summer breaks. "Taking on different positions in my dad's company was a great experience. As a young adult, I had the opportunity to join a small HVAC company, and once I stepped into the industry, I knew I wanted to pursue and continue my career here." Jessica, having years of experience in a male-dominated industry, gives excellent advice to women everywhere hoping to do the same: "Go for it and don't stop! Find a mentor or a role model. Whoever that person is; near or far, it is essential to have someone in your life to help guide you through difficult times/decisions."

Dawn Williams is currently a Dispatcher at our ARS of Indiana branch and has been with the company for 8 years. She genuinely enjoys knowing she is making the lives of our customers better, even at their most inconvenient times. Dawn encourages women to "stand tall and be confident" in their workplaces. "Try not live up to the typical stereotypes of women in the workplace. You can get your point across without becoming emotional, and if all else fails, laughter can help turn any negative situation around."

Cristy Lightsey is the Quality Assurance Manager and an Accounting Assistant at ARS of Vero Beach. She has been with the company for 9 months, and she truly appreciates how helpful and friendly her managers are. Cristy encourages women to do the following, "Go after it! Don't get discouraged easily and keep proving that you have what it takes not only to succeed, but to thrive in any industry."

ABOUT AMERICAN RESIDENTIAL SERVICES: Based in Memphis, Tenn., privately-owned ARS operates a network of more than 70 locally-managed service centers in 23 states, with approximately 6,500 employees. The ARS Network features industry-leading brands including, A.J. Perri, Aksarben ARS, Allgood, Andy's Statewide, ARS, Aspen Air Conditioning, Atlas Trillo, Beutler, Blue Dot, Bob Hamilton, Brothers, Columbus Worthington Air, Comfort Heating & Air, Conway Services, Efficient Attic Systems (EAS), Florida Home Air Conditioning, Green Star Home Services, Irish Plumber, McCarthy Services, Rescue Rooter / Proserv, Rescue Rooter, RighTime Home Services, RS Andrews, The Irish Plumber, Unique Services, "Will" Fix It, and Yes! Air Conditioning and Plumbing. As an Exceptional Service Provider, the ARS Network serves both residential and light commercial customers by providing heating, cooling, indoor air quality, plumbing, drain cleaning, sewer line, radiant barrier, insulation and ventilation services. Each location has a knowledgeable team of trained specialists. ARS requires background checks and drug tests on all employees. We hire professionals with the highest level of integrity. Providing exceptional service and ensuring the highest standards of quality, ARS has the experience to do any job right – the first time, with all work fully guaranteed. ARS: "Making it work. Making it right."

965 Ridge Lake Blvd., Ste. 201
Memphis, TN 38120
Phone: (901) 271-9700
ARS.com
Press Contact:
Stephanie Beliles: sbeliles@ars.com

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SOURCE ARS/Rescue Rooter