Spotlight Parking Professional: Leigh Thomas 

​

This month, we are excited to spotlight one of our own: Leigh Thomas.  Leigh has worked for TPN since June of 2023 as a Data Analyst.  She is now a Project Manager and assists with our publications.  Leigh graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and taught middle and high school mathematics in school systems for eight years.  Leigh remembers, “This taught me to listen and to have thick skin.”  She also taught a preschool music class, which helped her to be “silly and creative.”   

​

I asked Leigh about her experience at TPN and to share some things that are important to her.   

​

What attracted you to apply for this position? 

​

I was a high school math teacher when I heard about a Data Analyst position with TPN. Mostly curious about the company and my qualifications, and I applied and thoroughly enjoyed the interview process. I didn’t know what a career outside of education would look like, but I was excited when TPN offered me the job. Now, I am deeply thankful to be a part of the parking industry! 

​

What motivates you to work? 

​

I like to sleep well at night! My grandmother told me decades ago to do everything in a way that you have no regrets. That advice has served me well, and now I strive to do everything, from spreadsheet analysis to grocery shopping, in a way that leaves me with no regrets. My daughter’s favorite quote is by Maya Angelou; she said, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” Good thought there. 

 

How do you prioritize your tasks in a fast-paced work environment? 

​

I prioritize my tasks by two factors: deadlines & collaboration. If my task affects someone else, then I try to work ahead and get it done so that my colleague isn’t pressed by the deadline. For example, I contribute to our monthly Newsletter, and I prioritize those articles because I want our editor to have time to review it before the deadline. I choose to make the tasks that are not collaborative more flexible so that I can get them done on time, but after all the interdependent work. 

​

How do you approach your own professional development?  

​

How do I approach it? Constantly. I have found that maintaining a learning spirit benefits every aspect of my life. That’s one of the things I really appreciate about TPN: every time I go to Krista and ask to learn something new, she supports it and finds a way to incorporate new skills into our procedures.  

​

How do you stay informed about industry trends and best practices in management?  

​

We work with some phenomenal operators. They’re doing a tough job, and most are rocking it. I listen to them to understand the reality of the work and how they manage their locations. I make sure to take the time to read and understand articles and publications as they are released, staying informed about what is being planned and practiced. Attending NPA conventions has also helped me to understand our industry and the people in it. 

​

What kind of impact do you hope to make in this position? 

​

TPN has a fabulous culture and does work for the parking industry that no one else does. In my position, I aim to do everything possible to support TPN’s growth, benefiting not only current employees and clients but also future employees and clients. If you have questions about your parking asset, you really can call us. I have seen time and time again how people call when they are not sure there is anyone to call, and our team meets the needs. It’s very cool to watch and participate in, and I hope we’re around for a very long time! 

​

Tell me about a time you had to learn something new quickly. How did you approach it? 

​

Recently, Clyde had an idea that he could communicate to me with words and descriptions, but he didn’t have the tech skills to create it. I questioned him about his vision until I grasped it, and I knew (through my before-mentioned crazy desire to participate in professional development) that the tech was out there and accessible; I just needed to focus on the exact right thing. Thankfully, I knew where to look to find the necessary tool for the job. It was fun to be overwhelmed by Clyde’s ideas but then practice the fortitude to bring them to fruition.  

​

What’s a professional skill you’re currently working on improving? 

​

Engaging and understandable presentations. I’d love to find a platform that meets all our needs and master it. If you have suggestions, please send them to me via email. 

​

What motivates you to do your best work? 

​

Teamwork. It’s my favorite at-work feeling. 

​

I then asked Leigh to share on a more personal note.  

​

What's the most beautiful thing you've ever seen?  

​

Grand Teton National Park is my favorite place on Earth that I have seen with my own eyes. The mountains are fierce, the wildlife breathtaking, and the water features soothe my soul. One of the reasons we moved to eastern Idaho was to enjoy day trips to our favorite place, and I’m pleased that we actually go a few times each year! 

​

What’s your favorite book to recommend to people? 

​

A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles. It has it all: historical accuracy, fascinating characters, spectacular writing, and a plot that keeps the reader engaged. I have read it several times and will surely read it several more! 

​

What’s the most interesting thing you’ve learned lately? 

​

I learned just this week that it was illegal to pump your own gasoline in Oregon until 2023. A 1951 law prohibited citizens from pumping their own gas and required them to depend instead on attendants to do the job. We had friends over who grew up in Oregon, and we guffawed over dessert at their stories of gas-pump drama. I had no idea about this state law, and as a gal who spent her influential years in the great state of Texas (where we pick ourselves up by our bootstraps and get it done), I was astonished to learn this bit of Pacific Northwest history. 

​

If you could have any superpower, what would it be?  

​

Like The Flash – I would like to move through mundane tasks with lightning speed! 

​

If you could acquire any new skill on the spot right now, what would it be? 

​

I would love to know how to play the guitar. It would be fun to work through the learning process, but it would also be pretty amazing to have the skill instantly. 

​

Can you share a personal accomplishment you're particularly proud of? 

​

My husband and I both made significant career changes in the last 5 years, which was scary but necessary. We supported each other through the transitions and kept our focus on our faith and future. Now, we are both settled into a new industry and enjoying it immensely. It takes a lot of grit and support to leave what is familiar for what might be better, and I’m proud that we took a risk on each other and kept at it until we were successful. 

 

We at TPN are certainly thankful that Leigh has joined us.  I will close with comments from her colleagues.  Her attitude, work ethic, and ability stand out to all who know her.  

​

“Leigh is an outstanding leader and colleague, known for her enthusiasm for parking and her zest for life. She excels at educating others, managing assignments, and leading projects.”  

​

“Leigh consistently challenges our team and brings new ideas to improve our process and our products.” 

​

“Leigh is a rare person who understands numbers and people…  She has the ability to take the information from the numbers and explain to our clients how this information impacts them and their property.” 

​

“Leigh is always up for taking on a new challenge no matter what it might be. She is also phenomenal at being intentional and connecting with people.”  

​

“Leigh knows and understands the client's property and the challenges of our job. Finally, she is just a nice person who is a pleasure to work with and brings out the best in all around her.” 

 

When you have a minute, listen  for Leigh on our many podcasts and read her articles in our newsletter!