Wednesday, March 15, 2017

The third “Women in Sports” career seminar, presented by the Great Northwest Athletic Conference, will be held Saturday, April 8 in Portland, Ore.

Designed for college and high school females interested in pursuing sports-related careers, the seminar will take place at Memorial Coliseum.

The event will feature panelists from a broad cross-section of occupational paths, including coaching, administration, business, marketing, media, media relations, NCAA compliance, sports medicine, ticket sales, and officiating. Attendees will have an opportunity to interact with -- and seek career advice from -- a slate of experienced sports professionals in a round-table format. 

Below is a profile on a panelist who will be featured at this year's event.

KAREN FLOR BAEBLER, UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
Position: Assistant Athletic Director, Sports Operations
Colleges Attended: Grossmont College (El Cajon, Calif.); University of Washington; Ball State University
College Major: General Studies; Fine Art (Photography); Athletic Administration
Years In Current Position: 11 years

Primary Job Responsibilities: Championships (bids, financials, administration), game day administration for men's basketball, men's and women's golf and volleyball; general management of the Nordstrom Tennis Center, athletic contest contracts, official team schedules, gender equity and sustainability.

Things You Enjoy Most About Your Job: I’m able to do what I love and what I'm good at. No day is ever the same. I have a flexible schedule (though with long hours), great leadership, progressive, and innovative workplace.

Why Did You Pursue A Professional Career In The Athletics Industry: It was a good fit for me.

First Job In The Sports Industry: High school coach.

A Key Mentor Who Helped You On My Career Path: Jae Park, university administrator.

Most Influential Person In Your Early Professional Development: Joyce Sake, college basketball coach.

Biggest Hurdle You Overcame Breaking Into The Sports Industry: Starting with no contacts.

Key Attributes That Have Helped Shape Your Career Path: Resilience, grit, desire to improve and self-doubt.

Looking Back, What Is One Thing That You Would Do In College Or Early On To Help You Along Your Career Path? I would think about what I wanted my life to look like not five to 10, but 20 to 30 years in the future. I’d also like to take a genuine interest in other people's lives.

Best Advice You Would Give To A Young Female Wanting To Work In Sports: Be aware of how you interact with colleagues and how they see you.

Favorite Sports Team: Beside the Huskies? Mercer Island High School freshman football team.

Favorite Athlete: Courtney Thompson

Most Memorable Sports-Related Moment: 2005 NCAA Volleyball Championships.