in BUSINESS Women

BY CINDY JONES PHOTOS BY DAWN PAUL

When asked about their career choices, each of the women I reached out to for this year’s Women in Business feature said it came down to their desire to connect with others. Each is dynamic, intuitive, and creative in her career. What sets each apart is the ability to meet people wherever they are in their lives–whether running a well-loved business while building and giving back to the community or teaching, speaking and serving families in need. It was a great privilege and an inspiration to learn about each nominee, and I hope their stories inspire you too.

With a strong sense of nurturing and pride in her city, Marge Becraft believes that the arts create connections in the community.

Marge has been the chairwoman for the Roy Arts Council for over two years, planning and overseeing activities like the summer Concert in the Park series, the annual Art Show, the Youth Poetry Competition, and the Gingerbread House Decorating contest. Each of these projects are led year after year by a group of volunteers, including herself. Sometimes it can be difficult to find resources and funding for these events, but Marge says it’s a mutual passion for bringing the community together that keeps her and the other volunteers coming back.

“The more we can involve citizens, the more they have a sense of belonging and pride in our beautiful community. The arts programs give everyone the chance to get out and witness it.”

Working as Director of Community Services for over a decade, Julie Johnson didn’t expect to become CEO of United Way of Northern Utah. But having worked with the organization for over a decade, Julie naturally gleaned the skills needed to be a good leader.

“It’s not about gaining power, dictating orders, or controlling people. It’s when we come together that we do great things. Being a leader means inspiring and empowering the amazing people around me to be their best selves.”

In her first year as CEO, Julie has distributed over $200,000 in Community Service Grants, expanded community school work in the Ogden School District, and is preparing to launch our 90th birthday celebration for 2024.

“I feel so fortunate to see people willing to give of their time and resources. I see United Way as a connector for good. Taking those resources and connecting them to those in need to make change where it counts.”

BY ANN PARK

MMichelle Giacoletto has worked for Ovation Homes for four years. She is a key team-member responsible for handling accounting, accounts payable, payroll, bonds, taxes and much more.

Herfocus and attention to detail are vital to the function of this fast-growing company. And she shares a close bond with her fellow team members. “I feel like I found my second family working here,” Michelle says.

During her time with the Ovation family, Michelle has played a vital role in developing company systems, facilitating growth, overseeing the internal processes, and managing collaboration between organizations. Land acquisition and building is a complex process, and Michelle helps keep all the moving parts working together. Ovation Homes has grown rapidly in our area. For over twenty years now, they have specialized in providing single-level floor plans that can be personalized to the needs and tastes of homeowners. “We create homes that allow residents to enjoy the lifestyle they’re looking for,” Michelle says, “every detail of our work goes toward that goal.” Working with numbers comes natural to Michelle, who has always loved math. She loves to figure things out and find solutions to intricate problems. With her background in math and analytics, she runs the financial systems and internal processes that help them continue to grow and serve their customers.

“I worked for another company for many years, and I was ready for a change,” Michelle says. “My network of business connections helped me so much as I advanced in my career. The people working around me, who recognized my abilities and helped me gain more education and skills, were a tremendous support. They helped me move forward, and I’m very grateful to be where I am now. We all need a network. As working women, our friends and coworkers are important.” Her advice to others considering accounting as a career: “Make sure you enjoy a challenge. Accuracy is very important to me and to my company.” While much of Michelle’s work happens behind the scenes, Ovation Homes wouldn’t be able to run smoothly without her. “I’m excited to see what comes next. I love being part of the growth happening now.”