MG: My journey in the stone industry started 23 years ago with The Gallegos Corporation. I started answering phones and then bounced around the company learning as much as possible from payroll, accounting, plaster stucco, marble and granite, and settled in masonry. I have been lucky to have the support of some amazing mentors in my time with the company, and they have encouraged my growth and supported me through the many ups and downs over the years.

SW: What is your current role at Gallegos? 

MG: I am the Stone Yard Director.

SW: What do you like most about your job? 

MG: There are many aspects to my job that I enjoy. We live in a small community, and I enjoy interacting with local masons, architects and homeowners, and assisting in the selection process.  I have had the privilege of viewing many of the projects we have supplied, and it is always nice to see the complete homes or businesses. The Gallegos Corporation has a masonry division that we support, and I enjoy the interaction with our team. They have guided and coached me over the years on the installation of a variety of stone species, and it has been exciting to see the vision and craftsmanship on some of the prestigious homes in our Valley. I also have the pleasure of working with customers daily that are looking for some direction on smaller projects like a patio, walkway, retaining wall or garden. I enjoy the interaction and helping them map out their dream area with natural stone.

SW: You are an active member in Women In Stone (WIS). How long have you been a part of the organization and what were some reasons for joining?  

MG: I became actively involved with WIS in 2020 and have been a member since 2016. I was looking for a community of women that uplifted, supported and guided each other.  My early experience with the group was through a close friend that served on the steering committee. I admired her knowledge of the industry; the respect she received from her peers and the coaching she provided me with. She encouraged me for a few years to join the Mentorship program, and when I finally did, I was paired with another amazing leader in the industry that guided and supported me on dealing with people and sales, and provided pep talks when times were tough. Shortly after I started attending Study Tours, which presented me with community of brilliant women supporting other women and men in our industry. I have had the pleasure over the years to watch many of my peers grow in their roles at various companies and thrive in the natural stone industry in sales, education and ownership.

SW: What benefits have your found from being a member of WIS? 

MG: The biggest benefit has been being a part of a community of knowledgeable individuals that are eager to answer questions and provide guidance. The women in the group are from all sectors of the industry and I have found myself reaching out on technical guidance and have always had my questioned answered or received the guidance on who could assist. Networking at industry events has also been beneficial. There is always a representative with WIS at events, and we are working diligently to plan meet-ups to give participants an opportunity to meet other members.    

SW: What would you say was one of your most memorable times being a part of the stone industry? 

MG: The most memorable time in the stone industry for me was when The Gallegos Corporation hosted the Study Tour in Colorado and many of our suppliers came out to our yard to represent their companies, share information on their quarries and products, and share their knowledge and wisdom with new people on the tour. We also had a great time doing a poker run in the process. This event ended with the Legacy series honoring Brenda Edwards which was a weekend highlight. The setting was gorgeous and hearing her story in the industry and all the accomplishments left me wanting to do more for others and be a better mentor for WIS.

SW: When you are not working, how do you enjoy spending your free time?

MG: I spend my free time attending concerts with my son, cross training with my fitness crew friends, hiking 14ers in Colorado, trail running with friends for donuts, obstacle racing (Spartan) and snowboarding in the winter. I love outdoor adventures!

SW: What is something people might not know about you?

MG: I truly love to volunteer in my community and enjoy the camaraderie of being a part of large events like Birds of Prey and Vail Valley Foundation GoPro Games. I thrive in social interactions and enjoy live music.  

SW: Is there anything else you would like to share?

MG: I have been fortunate to be surrounded by strong and supportive mentors in the stone industry. This is not the path that I pictured out of school, but the journey was incredible, and I am thankful to my boss for all he has done to support my continued growth and the history and knowledge he has imparted. There are many passionate individuals that have taken natural stone and done amazing things with it, and I look forward to watching this industry grow.