Bristow's Kiecha Villery: Inspiration ignites her fiery (and festive) passion

In honor of Black History Month, Bristow is featuring employees to celebrate their vital contributions, achievements, inspirations, and perspectives. We are proud to introduce Procurement Coordinator Kiecha Villery, from our Lake Charles, Louisiana base, in this spotlight.

Tell us about your family?

I was born and raised in Lake Charles, Louisiana. I moved to Houston, Texas and lived there 16 years where I began my career in Supply Chain. I am the mother of two daughters that have blessed me with three BEAUTIFUL grandbabies. Anyone that knows me will tell you I am everything Christmas and super festive!

As a Procurement Coordinator, would you share your background and the path you took that brought you to Bristow?

I worked in the oil and gas industry in Supply Chain for over 15 years and recently transitioned to aviation with Bristow. It will be a year in March! It has been a reprogramming change in parts and process, but, I ultimately love SHOPPING!

What’s a typical day like? What are the opportunities and challenges that are unique to your area? Are things more difficult in a time of supply chain shortages?

I’m most passionate about making the business succeed and will go above and beyond to get the job done. My day goes by superfast with the high demand and need requirements purchasing. The existing crisis brought on by the pandemic has definitely impacted a shortage of particular parts that bring an adventurous challenge to the buying process. I’m up for the challenge! There are indeed unique and sometimes difficult situations that come up shifting me to my favorite saying, “Make it Make Sense” to get the job done cost effectively!

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black History Month to me is a time to remember and honor the African American struggles and achievements throughout history and into the present day. Looking back, we have come a long way and made a great amount of progress, but looking forward there is still more to be done. During this time, I often reflect on all the accomplishments of our predecessors and the opportunities still yet in front of us.

What Black role model inspires you and why?

My Black role model would be my grandmother, Regina. Who and what I am today is because of her and her village. Growing up I saw her work religiously hard to keep us afloat and it was something that truly inspired me, growing up as mother, to do whatever it took to provide for my daughters.

What significant event in Black history do you particularly connect with?

A significant event in Black history that stands out to me personally is Rosa Park’s refusal to leave her bus seat. Her refusal taught me the power of the word “no” and the importance of “taking up space.” Her “no” set off an entire movement! So many had resisted and said “no” before her – and faced terrible repercussions – but it mattered in that moment that she dared to say “no” regardless. It mattered that she dared to take up space. I have embraced the choice of saying “no” to underserving things and daring to take up space, not only for my career but in life.

What advice would you give to someone starting out at Bristow?

My advice first, never underestimate the power of networking, either internal or external. It is a good way to get in touch and connect with coworkers from other departments, as well as vital to your career growth. It will increase your opportunities to make important contacts. Make it a priority to meet like-minded people in the same or similar industries who can also introduce you to others with similar goals. Sharing ideas and solutions with others can help build trust, position yourself as a thought leader in your field, and ultimately help you achieve your career goals.