Betsie Hoyt
Director, Product Management
Trimble Viewpoint 
Portland, Oregon

Which is your favorite ice cream flavor? Any toppings?
Mint chocolate chip. And I like it with nothing fancy on top. You can’t mess with perfection like that.

If you could have lunch with one (deceased) person, who would it be?
John Lennon. He was gone too soon—I was just a kid—yet, he left behind such a legacy of music and perspective on what is important in life. I just watched McCartney 3, 2, 1, in which Paul talked about writing music with his friend John, and the impact they had on each other just reinforces a sense of that awe and wonderment.

Why is technology important to construction in 2021?
Technology is important in 2021 for the same reason it will continue to be for years to come. Technology enables many different groups of people to come together to work efficiently to share project updates in real time. The sharing of critical data leads to enabling job cost margins to stay on target.

How do you manage generational differences in your field?
Early in my career, I had the opportunity to manage a diverse group—with age being only one factor. It became apparent that most people don’t fit into categories. Each person thrives under slightly different motivations, so I prefer to adapt to what each person needs so they can excel as individuals and come together as a dynamic team.

What is your hidden talent?
I have never met a stranger. That may not sound like much, but hear me out. In order for you to solve a problem, build a team or motivate others toward a common goal, you first need to find commonality with the individual. Plus, it is a delight when you take the time to find commonality with a person who, on the surface, appears to be radically different from you.

What are the top three qualities a team leader should have?

• Listen. Really listen to your team and a sprinkling of your critics before making decisions.
• Empathize. Compassion on the pain points and difficulties that teams face leads you to the best outcomes which come through that perspective.
• Focus on the opportunity. Challenges are everywhere, but opportunities are there when you allow yourself to see the possibilities of what can be.