Leading The Path For Female MCPs - Meet Kelly Greer
When I think about the power of mentoring and the importance of nurturing curiosity within a team, I can’t help but think of Kelly Greer’s journey. Her story is one of transformation, resilience, and inspiration. It’s also a clear example of what happens when leaders invest in people’s potential.
Several years ago, Kelly came into my world as an addition to the receptionist team. She was personable, professional, and efficient at managing the front desk. Guests were greeted warmly, calls were answered promptly, and she always represented the organization with a smile. But even as she did her job well, I noticed something that stuck with me—her heart wasn’t fully in it.
That observation is not a criticism. Many of us have been there - working hard, doing the job, but not feeling fully connected to it. Kelly was good at her role, but I could sense she hadn’t found her true spark yet. And as leaders, that’s something we have to pay attention to. Sometimes it’s not about performance, but about potential.
A Chance Encounter with Blueprint Reading
As part of our cross-training efforts, we invited team members from various departments to participate in classes that would broaden their understanding of how the company worked. Kelly attended my two-day Basic Blueprint Reading class. She walked in on the first morning with curiosity but not much expectation. I believed she referred to it as “a break from the monotony of the front desk.”
By the end of that first day, everything had changed. As we left for the evening, she walked with me to our cars and said with excitement, “I want to do this.”
That simple sentence marked a turning point. She had discovered something that clicked, something that gave her energy instead of draining it. And that’s the moment where mentoring really matters—when someone reveals their interest, it’s our responsibility to nurture it.
A Boss Who Believed
The next day, I shared Kelly’s interest with her Director. To his credit, he was immediately supportive and excited. Instead of questioning why a receptionist wanted to dive into code-related training, he saw it for what it was - an opportunity.
Within a short period of time, Kelly was relocated to the inspectional services area so she could work more closely with inspectors and start learning hands-on. This move gave her the exposure and real-world context she needed to explore whether this was truly the right path. Spoiler alert: it was.
Two Years of Growth
Kelly’s commitment was undeniable. Over the course of just two years, she transitioned into an inspectional position, where she didn’t just learn the ropes - she mastered them. She eagerly pursued and earned a variety of certifications, adding layer upon layer of knowledge and credibility to her growing expertise.
Her hunger for learning and willingness to put in the hard work set her apart. What had started as a “maybe this could be interesting” moment turned into a full-fledged career transformation.
Reaching the Top – The Master Code Professional Credential
By 2024, Kelly achieved something extraordinary—she earned her Master Code Professional (MCP) credential. For those unfamiliar, this credential is one of the most difficult to obtain in the code profession. It requires an extensive amount of study, examinations, and commitment. Only a small percentage of professionals in the field ever achieve it.
Even more inspiring? Kelly joined an elite group of women nationwide who hold this credential. She went from answering phones at the front desk to standing among the most accomplished professionals in the industry. That’s not just impressive—it’s transformative.
This Woman Is Not Done Yet
Earning her MCP was just the beginning. Kelly is already setting her sights on the next milestone—Certified Building Official (CBO).
The CBO credential represents a leadership role at the highest level, with responsibility for the development, administration, interpretation, application, and enforcement of codes within a jurisdiction. It requires not only technical expertise, but also strong skills in budgeting, staff training and certification, customer service, and relationship building with contractors, developers, residents, media, elected officials, and civic groups.
And Kelly isn’t stopping there. Once she completes her CBO, she’ll be just one module test away from earning her Certified Fire Marshal (CFM) designation - yet another step that proves her dedication and commitment to excellence in the code profession.
The Bigger Lesson for Leaders
Kelly’s story isn’t just about her; it’s about the importance of leadership, mentoring, and nurturing talent.
Leaders, take note:
Someone’s current role does not define their future potential.
Curiosity is often the first spark of greatness—don’t ignore it.
Your encouragement and willingness to open doors can change a career trajectory.
The point is this: mentoring and nurturing interest in your industry is the very foundation of leadership. Helping people grow isn’t just good for them—it’s good for your organization, your community, and your profession as a whole.
A Final Reflection
Every time I think about Kelly’s journey, I’m reminded that the seeds of leadership are planted when we make time to notice, encourage, and support the people around us. Kelly could have stayed in a role that didn’t inspire her, take home a salary, clock in and clock bout.
But with opportunity and guidance, she stepped into a career where she thrives.
👏 Here’s to Kelly Greer - proof that when you combine passion, opportunity, and support, extraordinary things can happen.
And here’s to all leaders: keep your eyes open. The next great professional in your field might already be sitting right in front of you—waiting for the chance to shine.