She says it’s become more important for businesses to recognize that female leaders have additional life challenges and support them in their need for work-life balance.

Jennifer Mitchell is the chief marketing officer for the Kalispel Tribal Economic Development Authority. “I believe that women who want to succeed will find a way.” “More women are going to college, getting an education and experience than ever before,” she says. Maria Cullooyah, assistant planning director for the Spokane Tribe of Indians’ economic development department and real estate development director, says she believes today’s women are strong minded, independent, and willing to step up and seize leadership opportunities at all levels of business. “I think businesses are starting to see the value in having diverse voices at the table,” she says. Miller says she’s noticed that Spokane’s business climate is moving to embrace more female leaders, with many being selected as the head of their organizations. Meg Miller, the executive director of resort operations at Northern Quest Resort & Casino, is one of the Kalispel Tribe of Indians’ female executives. Women in leadership roles in two Spokane-area Native American economic development organizations say their tribes are recognizing the benefit of diverse voices, and they anticipate more women will be filling executive positions soon.