Maribel Topf, a proud San Diego native and first-generation American, embarked on her academic journey at Stephens College, humorously dubbing it "Steve's School for Chicks." This moniker resonates with the incredible women she encountered during her college years and her subsequent professional endeavors in male-dominated industries. Maribel often joked the potential title for her first book would be "The Only Woman in the Room."Her upbringing in a Spanish-speaking household, coupled with attending college in the Midwest, constituted a profound and transformative experience. Discovering the warmth of a Latin family within the context of Midwestern women and values altered her perceptions of what a modern woman could be. Embracing the role of supporting women while learning from the amazing men she encountered throughout her career has deepened Maribel's respect for the challenges inherent in both life and professional pursuits for both genders . Her journey reflects a harmonious integration of diverse perspectives, fostering a rich understanding of the shared struggles and triumphs we all encounter.Maribel has dedicated a significant portion of her career to collaborating with the C-suite. From her contributions at Vistage, a CEO membership organization, to her nearly two decades in the Repair Information & Diagnostics divisions of Snap-on, she has played a pivotal role in assisting executives in translating their strategies and visions into actionable plans at the employee level. Over the last twelve years, Maribel has successfully managed the continuous improvement programs for two companies, overseeing the progress of almost 1,000 employees. Her strategic leadership has made these companies some of the most profitable within the Snap-on family of companies. Throughout her tenure, she has reviewed and overseen an impressive portfolio of over 10,000 employee-led continuous improvement projects, further solidifying her reputation as a key driver of organizational success.With an affinity for the diverse and unconventional in life, literature, and friendships, Maribel constantly seeks out unique experiences. During her free time, she immerses herself in the most eclectic events, exploring everything her city and travel adventures have to offer. Proud of her Oaxacan heritage, she finds solace in her home away from home whenever possible, indulging in a well-deserved shot or two of Mezcal to reconnect with her roots.Read more about this authorRead less about this author