Meet the Women Who Push the Limits

Joan Howard

Joan Howard is a retired business consultant and entrepreneur. After being fired from every job she ever had, she started her own company as a telecommunications systems contractor. In the 1980s, it was rare to see any female-owned contractors in Arizona. Many men told her they didn’t expect her to succeed, but she was able to thrive and prove them all wrong. She has owned a variety of businesses and continues to manage her real estate investments. For over 35 years, Joan has held leadership positions at Impact for Enterprising Women, a networking group for female professionals and business owners. She is a fierce advocate for women, and has taken the group to a higher level, providing scholarships and educational opportunities for women.