Dr. Norfleet it is such an honor to get to speak to you today.

You have a powerful story. Why don’t you give us some details about yourself? How did you get to where you are today?

This is my third career. I was in the Information Technology field for many years; working my way up from entry-level positions, to Director of Information Technology for a global company. While working in that position, I started teaching for General Motors University and got interested in providing excellent training to my employees. I went back to school for my doctorate in Instructional Technology, (using technology to educate). After becoming a little burned out with all the travel, I left this position to start my next career in higher education. I accepted a position as Assistant Professor at University of Detroit Mercy.  I taught computer science-courses; and served in this capacity until I moved to Florida after accepting a position as Dean of Technology for Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ). In this position I was responsible for all technology degree programs and associated labs. I also served as the Interim Campus President. I have always had an interest in serving others; having volunteered as a mentor for the past 15 years, and helping others develop themselves. I became a certified coach, specializing in career and business coaching. I received several leadership awards along the way, and obtained my Lean Six Sigma and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Workplace certificates. After adopting my daughters, I decided that I wanted a career that would allow me to spend more time with them. So after serving one year as Director of Development for Year Up, I started my third career as owner of Norfleet Integrated Solutions. We specialize in three areas – coaching/leadership development, business consulting, and training and development. It’s very rewarding working with both our individual and corporate clients. I like to say that I am an entrepreneurial leader who leverages strategic planning and analytical thinking to find innovative solutions that scale businesses and grow individuals.

Dr. Norfleet, I am sure you success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to face along the way?

I received my first computer science degree, my bachelor’s degree, when few women were pursuing this field. I took the majority of my classes from men who felt that I should not be there. I was often ignored and learned much of the information needed on my own, despite my instructors. Thankfully, I had more enlightened faculty while working on my Master of Science degree. I also had challenges when I first started working in the technology industry. Every time I changed companies, I had to prove that I knew what I was doing. In many of the positions, my staff felt that I was not qualified to lead them. Thankfully, once they confirmed that I knew technology, and was an excellent leader, we were able to accomplish great things.

It was disheartening that when I started my company, I also had to prove I knew what I was doing. Many of my clients had worked with me while I was working for other companies, but when I stood out on my own, it was almost like they were seeing me for the first time, and they wanted to confirm that I could do the job. Thankfully, I will be celebrating my fifth year in business in March 2022.

Dr. Norfleet, let’s talk about the work you do at Norfleet Integrated Solutions Inc. What makes you good at what you do?

My experience, skills, and the variety of industries I’ve worked in or with, make me a great fit for running and growing my organization, Norfleet Integrated Solutions Inc. I take the time to get to know my clients before offering any solutions. I do not assume that what works for one company or individual will work for all. Here at Norfleet Integrated Solutions, we sit down with each client, identify their challenges, execute solutions, and achieve results.

What is your best piece of advice for readers that want to achieve success in their lives?

I advise people to try to marry their passion with their career choice. While I have always worked many more hours than the typical nine-to-five, it has never felt like work because I love what I do. Loving what you do does not mean that it will be easy, it just gives you the will to keep on going and achieving success. Push yourself when needed, never stop learning and accepting new challenges.

Speaking of success Dr. Norfleet, what does that word mean to you?

For me, success is making a difference. I am overjoyed that while doing something I love, I am in a position to help so many others. In turn, I make sure that I give back. I work with a Girls in IT group at one of the local high schools, I mentor students, and here at  Norfleet Integrated Solutions, we work with interns and help them get jobs when they have  gained work experience. I also serve on the board of several nonprofit organizations.

Dr. Norfleet, what is next for you?

Aside from my family, two of my passions are working with those in IT to grow in the field, and working with women desiring to start or grow their organizations. I have created a couple of leadership and coaching programs for those in IT. While working with women looking to start a business, I have created a 16-week aspiring women entrepreneurs (AWE) program that starts on January 8, 2022. The program is now accepting applications. To learn more and apply, go to https://norfleetsolutions.com/aspiring-women-entrepreneurs/.

I also want to write another book next year. My first one, Leading Without the Title: A Blueprint to Growing into Leadership is available on Amazon, and is for anyone wanting to take a look at themselves, and grow as a leader. I have had seasoned leaders reach out to me and provide positive comments on the chapters, Understanding People and Communication. My next book on leadership should be out by the second quarter of 2022. Another book-related publication will be an entrepreneurial journal that is in the process of being published and should be out by mid-January. I currently host an Internet TV show – On A Mission and I love being able to feature organizations and learn how they are making a difference in the community. I hope to continue to grow my viewers and get more individual episodes picked up on ABC.

To Connect With Dr. Wendy Norfleet:

Dr. Wendy Norfleet, CEO
wnorfleet@norfleetsolutions.com
904-530-1800 https://norfleetsolutions.com
Aspiring Women Entrepreneurs program https://norfleetsolutions.com/aspiring-women-entrepreneurs/