Cosette Conaway’s path is one of determination, grit, and unwavering resilience. From humble beginnings to becoming the CFO and principal of Conaway Geomatics, her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, vision, and courage.
A Challenging Start and Early Lessons
Cosette grew up in a challenging environment, the only child of a single mother struggling with drug addiction. Her childhood was marked by instability, yet she found guidance and support through her aunt and uncle. Their stable family life and entrepreneurial spirit became a model for Cosette, shaping her understanding of love, hard work, and what it meant to build a better future.
As a teenager, Cosette faced more life-altering challenges. By the time she graduated from high school in 1989, she was six months pregnant. The path ahead was unclear, but she and her high school sweetheart, Shannon, were determined to make it work. With limited resources, they moved to Fresno, California, where Shannon pursued his education through the GI Bill, and Cosette began her career in nursing.
Building a Life Together
Life as young parents was far from easy. Cosette balanced working night shifts as a nurse while caring for their growing family—two children by the time they were in their early 20s. Through sheer determination and hard work, Cosette completed a nursing certification program and secured a job at Valley Children’s Hospital. This experience allowed her to develop skills as a phlebotomy instructor and health unit coordinator, among other roles.
Despite the stability her nursing career provided, Cosette often wrestled with the demands of the job and the toll it took on her family life. Even as they scraped by, she and Shannon found joy in small moments, from camping trips with their children to tackling the challenges of life together.
A Shift in Direction
After six years in Fresno, Shannon graduated, and the family moved to Sacramento. Cosette continued her nursing career but found herself increasingly drawn to other paths. As her children grew, she explored new opportunities, eventually earning a business degree with a concentration in finance from Sacramento State University.
Her graduation marked a pivotal moment. Equipped with her degree and determination, Cosette transitioned to roles outside of nursing, including a stint at The Hartford and later at PG&E. In these positions, she developed analytical and leadership skills, solving complex problems and managing teams. These experiences revealed her knack for navigating the operational side of organizations and laid the groundwork for her future endeavors.
Facing Adversity and Finding Strength
Not all of Cosette’s transitions were smooth. In the mid-2000s, she faced a personal crisis, grappling with depression and feelings of isolation. Seeking help through therapy and counseling, Cosette not only overcame these challenges but also gained valuable insights into herself. This period of growth strengthened her resolve and equipped her with tools to better navigate life’s complexities.
The Leap into Entrepreneurship
In 2019, Cosette and Shannon decided to take the leap into entrepreneurship, founding Conaway Geomatics. The decision to start their own business wasn’t easy, especially with Shannon’s initial reservations about leaving the security of corporate roles. However, their complementary skill sets—Shannon’s technical expertise as a licensed land surveyor and Cosette’s financial acumen—proved to be the perfect match.
Starting the business just before the COVID-19 pandemic brought its own set of challenges. Contracts were delayed, and the uncertainty of the time tested their resilience. But through strong industry relationships and the ability to pivot quickly, the company found its footing, securing new projects and growing despite the obstacles.
Click here to visit Conaway Geomatics!
Leadership Insights from Cosette
Cosette’s leadership philosophy is grounded in authenticity, gratitude, and empowerment. She believes that true leadership comes from embracing one’s unique strengths and helping others do the same. A pivotal moment in her journey came during a Women in Energy conference, where a mentor emphasized the importance of owning the room, asking questions, and not diminishing oneself to fit in.
Cosette now encourages others to step into their power, especially women in male-dominated industries. “Sit up tall, take up space, and ask the questions,” she advises. “Leadership isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about being willing to learn, adapt, and support others.”
A core aspect of Cosette’s leadership style is recognizing and nurturing the leadership potential in others. Whether it’s through mentorship or simply acknowledging an employee’s contributions, she strives to create a culture where everyone feels valued and empowered to grow.
Final Thoughts: Thriving in Your Own Arena
Cosette’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-belief. She has built a career—and a business—on the foundation of hard work, adaptability, and the courage to take risks. Through the challenges of entrepreneurship, her focus has remained on building a team and a company that reflects her values.
Her advice to others is simple yet profound: “Be your authentic self. Don’t let fear or doubt hold you back. You’re capable of more than you think.”
For Cosette, thriving in her own arena means staying true to her vision, supporting her team, and continuing to learn and grow. Her story serves as an inspiration for anyone looking to take control of their future, face challenges head-on, and build a life they’re proud of.
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