Ozarks Profile: Janice Bowman

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What is |ret||ret||tab|

your job?|ret||ret||tab|

"I am an economic development specialist, U.S. Small Business Administration, Springfield Branch Office. My main responsibility is to market the outreach of SBA programs and services." |ret||ret||tab|

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Tell us |ret||ret||tab|

about your organization.|ret||ret||tab|

"SBA assists entrepreneurs to start, expand or purchase existing businesses with the necessary financial and technical assistance and business resources they need to run and operate a successful business. The Springfield SBA office, which is a branch of the Kansas City District office, opened in 1980 as a disaster office and employs eight people."|ret||ret||tab|

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What is your educational background?|ret||ret||tab|

"I graduated from Central High School in 1970, but never attended college. Instead, the SBA educated me with a series of jobs. Since joining SBA I have attended many training sessions in public affairs, media, marketing and outreach and computer software courses."|ret||ret||tab|

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What jobs led you to your current one?|ret||ret||tab|

"Prior to SBA I was employed in various accounting offices and secretary jobs. I was not comfortable with my retirement outlook and decided I should find a job with more benefits and growth potential. Soon after taking the Civil Service test and accepting this position at SBA, the federal government starting downsizing. I got in just under the wire." Janice started with the branch office in December 1989 as a receptionist, moved up the ranks and was promoted to economic development specialist in August 2000. "I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunities offered me here at SBA."|ret||ret||tab|

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What is the best part of your job?|ret||ret||tab|

"I think (it is) networking with people at business expos, conferences, etc., and being able to assist people in their quest for success in owning their business and being their own boss. It's nice to drive down the street and see a business and think that you have been a small part of that success."|ret||ret||tab|

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Give us some personal information.|ret||ret||tab|

Born in Nebraska, Bowman moved to Springfield when she was 5. She married her high school sweetheart, Jackie, 30 years ago. They have one grandson and are expecting a granddaughter in April courtesy of their 27-year-old son Jack and his wife Amy. The Bowmans live on an 80-acre ranch near Billings where they moved four years ago. They have two dogs, three cats and two paint horse colts. "We're so glad they all let us live with them," Bowman said. With little time left for hobbies, she does love to cruise around in her Corvette. |ret||ret||tab|

by Cheryl Capages |ret||ret||tab|

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