Deborah Gomez: Alaska Federation of Business and Professional Women; This organization is dedicated to helping women grow into leadership positions.

• Author: Mehta, Neil
• Position: Interview - Interview

In the summer of 1945, the membership chairwoman of National Federation of Business and Professional Women, Wilma Zimmerman, journeyed north to Alaska with one mission: to unite the working women of the state. While Alaska's Federation of Business and Professional Women had long existed, it maintained a limited presence, consisting of a mere two locations. Many obstacles threatened Zimmerman's quest to extend her organization's reach, most notably wartime restrictions and extraordinary travel distances.

However, the unrelenting chair refused to yield in the face of danger. With the aid of armed men, Zimmerman made the perilous voyage to Anchorage. After a safe arrival, she deliberated with a local, unaffiliated women's organization and absorbed them into her national federation. The spirited expedition extended north to Fairbanks, establishing a broad network that has served as the basis for today's BPW.

The product of Zimmerman's perseverance is apparent in the success of Alaska's Federation of Business and Professional Women. Since 1945, the state's BPW has grown to host 14 additional local organizations. Yet, the mission of BPW Alaska remains the same: "to achieve equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education and information." The association provides financial assistance for women looking to advance their careers or to reenter the work force. Moreover, BPW hosts various workshops to develop critical business skills.

The BPW network is headquartered in Washington D.C. With over 2,000 local organizations throughout the nation, the organization has a significant impact on the social and political landscape of our country.

Alaska President Deborah Gomez recently took time from her busy schedule to discuss the present and future of her organization.

ABM: What benefits can BPW provide to women in the Alaska work force?

Gomez: We enable women to sharpen their leadership skills. That constitutes developing abilities to run an organization, putting projects together as well as providing an opportunity to discuss issues that impact our personal and work life. Subjects discussed include equal opportunity for obtaining positions and training. Therefore, BPW serves as a practice ground to develop and exercise good business skills, as well as provide networking opportunities for women.

ABM: What expectations do members come in with?

Gomez: New members come in with the expectation of wanting to take part in an experience that will...