Our featured WBE for June is Patricia Howell, President of Gulf Ice Systems, Inc.  Gulf Ice Systems, Inc. represents the finest ice making and beverage dispensing equipment available to the food service industry with an inventory that includes Ice-O-Matic icemakers, Everpure water treatment products and a wide variety of Cornelius brand equipment.

Q: Why did you go into this business? For several reasons. First, I was familiar with the beverage equipment industry as my husband had been in the business for a lot of years. Second, it allowed us to create a family business that opened opportunities for our children and created job security for employees.

Q: What has been the worst time or biggest obstacle you faced and overcame? The death of my husband and partner.

Q: What has been the biggest triumph? Our customers. They have allowed us to grow and become successful in this business and have made us one of the largest beverage equipment distributors in the country.
 
Q: What is the best advice you ever received? Hold your children close as they are your greatest assets.

Q: Is there anyone who has inspired you, and why? My mother. Her dedication to family, friends, and the needs of others less fortunate.

Q: What is the best book you ever read and would recommend? "Gone with the Wind," by Margaret Mitchell. I recommend it, as it shows Scarlet able to conquer all obstacles, and she didn’t let them hinder her.

Q: What is your favorite quote? “Lord grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” Saint Francis of Assisi (1182-1226)

Q: What are your goals now? or where do you see yourself going? My goals are to see the business succeed, grow and expand beyond my dreams, while maintaining an active role in the business. 

Q: How has your WBC certification helped you? The WBC has helped us capitalize on new business in our area and allowed me to become more involved in sales and other aspects of the business.

Q: What do you want to be remembered for? I would like to be remembered for being an industrious, honest, hardworking business women who has not only been committed to her family, but who also has been a benefactor to society.

You can learn more about Patricia and Gulf Ice Systems, Inc. at 
http://www.gulficesystems.com/.

Visit our Web site: http://www.wbcgulfcoast.org/
Copyright© Women's Business Council Gulf Coast 2001-2004
Newsletter Design and Maintenance by Rainbow Computer Services, Inc.