Judy Free and Traci Maddox have been working together since 1999 – when they met as federal employees on the only escalator in St. Mary’s County, MD. They started working together soon after that fateful meeting! Their first collaboration was helping a 30,000-person organization implement large-scale change. Since then, they have collaborated on many projects ranging from strategic planning to teambuilding and training. In addition to their Organization Development backgrounds – Traci’s Master’s Degree is in Organization Development and Judy’s is in Behavioral Science – Judy is a Certified Professional Facilitator and Traci is a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach.

Traci and Judy have always been drawn to helping individuals achieve success. The Essential Career Resource is all about empowering people to achieve success in the work place! In preparation for the Essential Career Resource, Judy and Traci conducted a research project to see if there were common elements that contribute to an employee’s “essential-ness” regardless of workplace size or focus. The results of that research are the basis for the first book – The Essential Employee. They are using the same data-based approach for all the books in the Essential Series.

With your help, Judy and Traci look forward to continuing their heroine Carmen’s career through the “Essential” Series of books which, along with the associated reference materials, form the Essential Career Resource. Watch for Carmen to become a team leader, a supervisor, a mid-level manager, a senior manager, and a CEO – and learn with her as she grows!

A Message from Judy - It is an understatement to stay I am fortunate to have crossed paths with Traci! There is no way I could have predicted the outcome of this relationship which began with a fleeting introduction on an escalator. That simple decision to act in the moment in 1999 has created so many paths for me. Our relationship is a lasting and valued friendship and partnership; filled with creativity, risk, and adventure. Our story has an important message for everyone. That is, make the best of wherever you are at this moment. When you meet new people, know that they may become an important part of your future. So always, always put your best foot (and mouth) forward! 

A Message from Traci - Sometimes gifts come wrapped in people – and when Judy spoke up on that escalator, I didn’t realize what a gift was coming into my life! From the first moment I saw her outstanding resume, I knew she would be a valuable colleague and work partner. The first discussion we had just sealed the deal. Years later, I also realize I have a wonderful confidante and friend. My lesson from our great collaborative relationship is this – be open to the goodness that appears. Be flexible and look for the talent that presents itself – on an escalator or anywhere else. And then partner willingly to create more than either of you could have created alone!