Leadership Greater Topeka 2022: BOBBIE SMITH
Photo by: Braden Dimick
WHAT LED YOU TO YOUR CURRENT PROFESSION?
Upon completing my master’s in business management, I received a call from a classmate in my master’s program outlining a role at BNSF that he felt embodied my skill set and leadership abilities. What appealed to me most about this invitation was the ability to continue to develop people, the organization’s visions and values, and the endless advancement opportunities. I have held various leadership roles within the organization over the past 21 years and continue to enjoy the opportunities afforded to me within my profession.
THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR LIFE?
Family. The countless memories, quality time and laughs together are priceless.
WHO IS YOUR ROLE MODEL?
My older brother Myron. Myron’s passion for developing others is contagious. He has always taken the limits off of what he can achieve and sets goals that require him to leave his comfort zone in order to attain them. He cares for people and treats everyone with dignity and respect, a quality I am careful to demonstrate.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE HASHTAG?
#smithgang is a hashtag that my daughter, Ashanti, came up with to celebrate our family bond. We affectionately utilize it in our family chats, pictures and posts as we celebrate successes, recognize one another’s achievements or make memories.
