Q&A with
Carrie Peitz
Carrie Peitz, Senior Pursuit Specialist, recently celebrated 25 years with JEO. Over that time, she’s become a driving force behind our proposal efforts, known for tackling challenges head-on and helping move projects forward. Learn more about her journey at JEO in the Q&A below.
Looking back, what part of your journey at JEO makes you feel the most proud?
“I’m most proud of the way my career has evolved. What I didn’t realize early on is how much relationships would shape that evolution. The people around me, including mentors who took the time to teach me, colleagues who challenged me to think differently, and friends who walked alongside me, opened doors I did not even know existed.
“At JEO, relationships aren’t just part of the culture; they truly define it. Because people cared enough to invest in me, to push me, and to let me explore beyond my original role, my career grew into something I never could have imagined when I first started. It’s a reminder that when you build genuine relationships and stay open to growth, your path can unfold in ways far beyond what you initially pictured. My advice is to be curious, ask questions, and seek opportunities.”
How has your work here allowed you to make a positive impact in the communities where we live and work?
“Through proposal development, I’ve had opportunities to help position projects that truly shape our communities. I love digging deep into a pursuit, understanding what matters to the community, and helping our teams tell that story in a meaningful way. Seeing projects move from an idea to something that improves safety or quality of life, and knowing I played a role in helping secure that opportunity is incredibly rewarding.”
What motivates you most about the work you do each day?
“The people. Collaboration is my favorite part of the job. I enjoy working with teams across departments, challenging project managers to think deeper about what sets us apart, and pushing for a final product we can all be proud of.
“I’m also motivated by the pursuit itself, including the strategy, creativity, and opportunities to think differently. Every proposal is a chance to raise the bar and present JEO in a way that reflects who we truly are.”
What’s one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you first started here?
“Do not wait until you feel completely ready. Early in your career, it’s easy to think you need more experience, more knowledge, and/or more confidence before stepping into something bigger. The truth is, growth happens when you stretch yourself.
“Some of the most defining moments in my career came when I said ‘yes’ to opportunities that felt just outside of my comfort zone. Trust that you are capable of more than you think, surround yourself with people who will challenge and support you, and be willing to step forward even when the path is not perfectly clear.”
As you look ahead, what are you excited for in the next phase of your journey at JEO?
“I’m excited to continue raising the bar in how we approach pursuits and to keep mentoring others along the way. I’ve had incredible mentors at JEO who challenged me, supported me, and took the time to teach me; and I want to do the same for the next generation.
“JEO has always felt like more than just a workplace to me. It’s a place where relationships matter and where people genuinely care about one another. I’m looking forward to continuing that journey, strengthening those relationships, and helping shape what’s next for our company.”
