Today we’d like to introduce you to Annie Le
Hi Annie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Everything started with a Facebook post I made in June 2015. I asked if anyone needed a bartending shift covered and received a response from Daniel Shen suggesting I apply for an office assistant position at his new energy consulting firm, Sector 7 Energy, in Plano, TX. Pursuing a degree in business management, I saw this as a chance to gain invaluable experience and contribute to a company’s early success. Daniel Shen was known for his remarkable success in the energy industry, having built a reputation for innovation and leadership. Working under someone with his expertise was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.
My goal was to gain experience and learn about leadership and business management, but I had no idea that Sector 7 Energy would grow so quickly. With each move and expansion, my role grew as well. From managing myself to overseeing multiple departments as the Chief Operating Officer, the journey has been both demanding and rewarding. Currently, I am a mentor, a software developer, a liaison, and a professional development trainer. I definitely achieved my goal and so much more. It is crazy to think that one ordinary Facebook post led me to these extraordinary experiences and a fulfilling career.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My biggest challenge back then was figuring out how to overcome my social anxiety. As an introvert, I always kept conversations short and stuck to a small group of friends. Working at Sector 7 Energy changed that. Initially, daily interactions with coworkers felt awkward, but I soon realized they made an effort to talk to me because they knew what it was like to feel out of place in a new environment. I can’t imagine how hard it was for them to carry on a conversation with someone who often gave short answers. They never gave up on me, and that made a significant impact. Now, I want to do the same for others. When I notice someone standing alone, I walk over and talk to them. If someone seems out of place in a group setting, I do my best to bring them into the conversation.
There’s one more thing I struggle with that I think many can relate to: the fear of making mistakes at work and seeming incompetent. I didn’t ask questions because I worried they would be seen as ‘stupid.’ I didn’t seek help when I needed it because I wanted to give the impression that I could handle things on my own. Ironically, these two things led to more mistakes. I learned that it takes courage to ask questions and seek help. I wouldn’t have gotten where I am today without that courage.
Is there something that you think plays a major role in your success?
My parents—Their resilience and dedication shaped who I am today, instilling in me the values of perseverance and hard work. Their journey to America epitomized hard work and dedication. When they first arrived in America, all they had was each other and two kids—a two-year-old (me) and a three-year-old (my brother). To put food on the table, my dad took on any job he could find, working multiple low-paying positions to provide for us. During the day, he installed tile, and at night, he prepared dough for a bakery. His relentless work ethic and determination paid off as he became a sought-after expert in his trade. My mother was equally inspiring, working alongside him rain or shine and always supporting him.
My dad told me that there’s no perfect job—every role has tasks you enjoy and others you don’t, but both are essential. Do what needs to be done and do what is right. His lessons on perseverance and striving to be the best, no matter the field, have been invaluable to my career. This mindset became my compass as I navigated the challenges and opportunities that came with each phase of Sector 7 Energy’s expansion.
My team—The support of my team has been crucial. The four departments I lead are filled with amazing women who inspire me to pursue growth and knowledge. The more I learn, the more I can offer them.
I’d like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to my team: Thank you, guys, for allowing me to lead you. We have gone through a lot together. Let’s continue charging into uncharted territories, embracing the chaos, finding joy in the absurd, and learning to see the humor in even the most challenging of circumstances. I cherish our odd moments together, like when we all ran out of the office to chase after an ice cream truck and all of our failed prank attempts. These are moments I will never experience anywhere else. I love you guys.
Is there anything we should know about your company, Sector 7 Energy?
At Sector 7 Energy, we are committed to fostering growth and development. I am a testament to this commitment. Sector 7 provides exceptional mentorship, continuous professional development through ongoing training, and a supportive work environment. Every mentor here, myself included, started from the ground up. Our collective experience and proven results enable us to offer valuable guidance and support. Sector 7 Energy prioritizes promoting from within, so if you are seeking growth opportunities, Sector 7 is where you’ll find it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sector7energy.com/
Image Credits
Anh Nguyen for Anh Studio
