For this week’s Woman Wednesday, AY About You sits down with Doris Lawrence of Delta Pest Control. 

 

Lawrence  grew up in El Dorado and then attended the University of Central Arkansas, where she received a BSE in business education.  After a few years of teaching business education, Lawrence took classes at night to get her master’s degree in counseling. 

After receiving her masters, she was a business teacher and a counselor for 30 years. She and her husband bought Delta Pest Control in 1984 and have expanded the business into one of the largest woman-owned pest control companies in Arkansas. Lawrence’s hobbies include attending Razorback games and hanging out on Lake Hamilton.

 

We asked Lawrence what it means to be a woman.

“My feelings about being a woman have changed over the years. When I was in high school in the late sixties, I believed that men ruled the world.  As I matured, however, I now know that God gave men and women great strengths,” Lawrence says. “Of course, men might have more physical strength, but most women are very detailed and are great at planning and making sure everything works out well. Men are no better than women, and women are no better than men. We all need to celebrate our God-given strengths and support each other.”

 

Lawrence explained what it’s like to be a woman in the pest control industry. “My husband usually accompanies me to meetings, so I have not had to face many challenges.  Most of the people I meet are professional and respectful,” she says. “And I must admit that restroom breaks are a little easier when there are mostly men at these meetings.”

Lawrence offers a word of advice to the young women and girls who may read this article.

 

“I would encourage young women to follow their dreams. Don’t be intimidated, but rather, have confidence in your ability,” Lawrence says. “Maintain a good sense of humor and good work ethics.   Remember that nobody knows everything, so don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. If you work hard, persevere and remain genuine and dependable, the sky is the limit! You can succeed!”

 

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