Women HERstory Month
Would you like to meet some of the brilliant minds leading the way at Maitri?
Learn about our incredible women leaders who are shaping the future of our company and the cannabis industry. Get inspired by their stories of resilience, innovation, and empowerment as they continue to make a lasting impact. Join us in celebrating their achievements and contributions!
Chelsea
Inventory Manager
What inspired you to pursue a career in cannabis, and what motivates you to continue in this field?
My journey led me to have a passion for cannabis long before employment with Maitri. I was ecstatic and hopeful when PA legalized MMJ, and dispensary doors opened early in 2018. I never thought Fayette County would ever get a dispensary, especially Uniontown, the heart of my town. And during Phase I?! I was stunned but knew I had to become an employee. It was an easy transition from the pharmacy technician position I worked in then. I had a lot of patient crossover between the two jobs, which was great! Many patients already knew and trusted me, and I got to continue helping them obtain better health but in a much better, more rewarding, and less guilt-feeling way than in traditional pharmacy. That is why I continue to work in this industry. I may not be working face-to-face with our patients, but I saw firsthand how this medicine helps more people than just myself, and I know helping patients is what we do as a company every day.
Corinne
East Liberty Dispensary General Manager
How do you believe celebrating Women's History Month can positively impact the representation and recognition of women in the cannabis industry?
Currently 22% of the industry are women, celebrating those in it could intice more women to try something that they feel may be male dominant and allow to understand the amount of options for career choices within the industry
Erika
MARKETING DESIGN SPECIALIST
I started at Maitri as a part-time designer with zero understanding of anything cannabis related. The last 2.5 years have been a wild learning curve. I love the challenges it presents, but finding out that cannabis helps support my own mental health was what helped me fall in love with this plant and industry.
Heather
Pharmacist/ Greensburg Dispensary General Manager
During Women’s Month, It’s important to recognize the significant role women play in promoting health and wellness in the marijuana industry. We are at the forefront - providing personalized care, education, and support to patients, advancing research, destigmatizing usage and ensuring favorable outcomes. I'm proud to be part of a team that has women on their leadership team. Let’s celebrate the dedication and expertise that women have contributed to the cannabis industry this month!
Jordan
Director of Retail
How do you believe celebrating Women's History Month can positively impact the representation and recognition of women in the cannabis industry?
Lots of people outside of the cannabis think they have an idea of who works in cannabis. Surprise! It's one of the most diverse industries I've ever been a part of. Recognizing the women who work here not only helps break stigma of "who belongs in weed," but it also acts as a sign to other women that they are welcome here. More women, better weed. It's that simple.
Katie
Cultivation Manager
Are there any female mentors or role models who have influenced your career in cannabis? If so, how?
I would say most of the horticulture roles I have had have been led by strong women. The cannabis industry has largely been led my men, so to see so many more women engaging in this career field is exciting. I get the most influence from the women I work beside on the day to day.
Lecia
HR Manager
What inspired you to pursue a career in cannabis, and what motivates you to continue in this field?
My love for the plant and my love for Human Resources drove me to this industry. Being able to combine two of my passions is an absolute dream. I am motivated everyday by the evolving industry and the opportunity to learn.
Maddie
Propagation Supervisor
What advice would you give to other women who aspire to pursue a career in cannabis?
Never give up! I used to think I would have to move across the country to work with cannabis, but there are plenty of opportunities right here in Pittsburgh. If you’re interested in the horticultural aspect of cannabis, any former plant knowledge can easily be applied. There’s a reason they call it weed! Because it is very easy to grow!
Maria
Flower Supervisor Cultivation
What inspired you to pursue a career in cannabis, and what motivates you to continue in this field?
I have always been fascinated by the potential of cannabis as a natural medicine. I wanted to help others who could benefit from cannabis. I often think about how cannabis could have helped my grandparents. What motivates me to continue in this field is the constant learning and innovation that is happening in the cannabis industry. I enjoy being part of a community that is passionate, diverse, and committed to making a positive impact on society.
Marisa
Marketing Manager
What advice would you give to other women who aspire to pursue a career in cannabis?
Let's dive in. I'll be candid—I'm not one to boast about personal growth, but here's the truth: I was the first one to hop aboard the Maitri train, and I'm still here today, proudly standing as one of the leading women in this entire company! It's been a journey fueled by relentless effort and unwavering perseverance. Through the ups and downs, I've remained steadfast in embodying the spirit of "Maitri." In an industry rife with challenges like flower shortages and constant business shifts, I've made it a point to turn every obstacle into an opportunity for growth. I've learned firsthand the power of resilience—using setbacks as fuel to propel forward and demonstrate what's possible. Maintaining a positive outlook has been key. I firmly believe in radiating positivity and being the energy that uplifts and inspires the team. It's about fostering a vibe where everyone can thrive and succeed together. So, let's keep pushing, stay positive, and show the world what we're made of!
Markita
Pharmacist | Medical Director
How do you believe celebrating Women's History Month can positively impact the representation and recognition of women in the cannabis industry?
I feel lots of women fear judgment if they are affiliated with or even consume cannabis — especially mothers! Being a black mother, I think it’s pretty impactful to have representation to highlight that women are capable of making logically sound decisions about our health and wellness while multitasking life as great mothers do — even if that means cannabis was used in the process. Destigmatizing cannabis through women’s use and perspective can be pretty powerful in the evolution of this industry.
Rebecca
Uniontown Dispensary General Manager
What inspired you to pursue a career in cannabis, and what motivates you to continue in this field?
My journey in the cannabis industry began as a child when my Buba practiced her own homeopathic remedies and passed them along through the family. I continued this tradition with my family and even make my own natural products such as soaps and lotions. Then when my husband saw a dispensary was going to open nearby he said I HAD to apply! I sent in my resume, drove into Pittsburgh for the interview, and spent an hour talking with two of the founders of Maitri. From Patient Advisor to General Manager, one of my favorite things is talking to patients to help them find products and being a part of their success stories. Now, five years later, we patiently wait for PA to embrace recreational use. I watch other states move forward successfully. When this occurs we will welcome even more people to Maitri. I love seeing the stigma blown to pieces by the countless people who walk through our doors. I know cannabis will come back to its roots, as a natural part of our society as the amazing plant is intended.
Samantha
Director of Operations - Head of Grower Processor
What inspired you to pursue a career in cannabis, and what motivates you to continue in this field?
My cannabis journey started young. As a naturally angsty youth, I found that cannabis helped me cope with the stressors of life. It was pivotal in shaping a healthy perspective on the world outside of my control. As a young adult, I became very engaged in sustainable living and permaculture. I started working on CSA farms and learning agronomic skills. It only made sense to start growing my own medicine. As my passion for cannabis horticulture grew, I felt the need to travel to the Mecca of the U.S. Cannabis industry. I spent 7 years in Mendocino California running my own farm and co-producing The Emerald Cup. I found a unique and beautiful community of cannabis farmers and activists to share my passion with. I wasn't the only one searching for this cannabis Mecca. Many people with severe illness also left their native land in search of a place where the weed flows freely. Connecting with the people who get relief from cannabis plant magic is what continues to inspire me. Suffers from cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, Parkinson's, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, depression find so much relief from cannabis. I've seen people break down into tears because of the love they have for this plant. That is what motivates me to continue in this field.