When you think about engineering careers, you might not picture someone who started in guest services or housekeeping. But that’s exactly where the journeys of Anastasia, Chief Engineer at Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Perimeter Center, and Melanie, Director of Engineering at New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge, started.
Today, both lead engineering teams and help keep their hotels running smoothly, but it took them many different roles, learning experiences, and turning points to get there. Along the way, they said yes! to new opportunities, sought out mentors, and kept building new skills. They also found community through Marriott’s Associate Resource Groups (ARGs), including the Women’s ARG, Black ARG and LGBTQ+ | ONE ARG, where they made meaningful connections, found support and helped open doors for others on their own career journeys.
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Their paths show what can happen when people are given room to learn and grow and reach their potential through new experiences and opportunities. And how sometimes, in fact, most times, the most rewarding opportunities are the ones you never expected.
Take us to the beginning, where did it all start for you?
Anastasia: I began answering phone calls as an At Your Service Agent at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis in March 2012. I quickly became interested in learning and cross-training in the other disciplines in the front office. One day, the current Chief Engineer mentioned they had a few entry-level positions becoming available in preventative maintenance and wanted to know if I was interested. I quickly flourished in that role and began learning in the engineering field.
Melanie: I joined Marriott in September 2006 as a Housekeeper in Cary, North Carolina. I accepted the role because I wanted to join the Marriott family. Since then, I’ve had 12 promotions and role changes across nine properties, seven states, and four brands. Today, as Director of Engineering, I lead teams focused on maintaining safe, reliable and efficient hotel operations.
What do you think was the biggest turning point in your career?
Anastasia: I think it was the pandemic. Because we had such limited staff, I was tasked with taking on job assignments outside of my wheelhouse. I took this as an amazing learning opportunity and immersed myself in everything that I could learn.
Melanie: To me, it was when I was given the opportunity to lead larger teams, housekeeping, laundry, and engineering operations. It helped me realize that success in hospitality isn’t just about equipment and systems. It’s about developing people, building strong partnerships, and creating an environment where teams can perform at their best.
What has helped you succeed in engineering leadership?
Anastasia: Being a woman in engineering certainly has its challenges, as we are vastly underrepresented. Fortunately, I have been able to navigate by seeking out other female engineers and peer networks that offer support.
Melanie: What has helped me succeed is staying confident, continuing to learn, seeking out mentors, mentoring others, and being willing to step outside my comfort zone when new opportunities arise.
What advice would you give someone considering a career with Marriott?
Anastasia: Get in the door. The wonderful world of Marriott has so many avenues and you truly won’t know your true calling until you immerse yourself in it. Do not be afraid to move around and train with other departments.
Melanie: Be open to learning, stay curious and don’t be afraid to take on new challenges. You don’t need a traditional career path to be successful.
