Inspired Leadership

I recently had an enlightening conversation with Monica Sanchez, who founded and leads Proven Connections Group in the South Bay. Her firm specializes in providing comprehensive consulting services for utilities, focusing on electric, gas, and service disconnections.

Monica's journey began with a strategic career shift from construction project management to PG&E in 2020. Though it meant accepting a lower salary, she saw it as an investment in acquiring new expertise. This decision unexpectedly led to a groundbreaking business concept that combines construction knowledge, PG&E's complex permitting procedures, and streamlined utility permit acquisition.

During her tenure at PG&E, Monica identified a critical gap - many stakeholders lacked understanding of construction sequencing and site operations. Her role involved ensuring compliance, performing calculations, managing permit communications, and scheduling installations. However, she noticed that installation teams often struggled due to their limited grasp of construction workflows. Installation dates frequently misaligned with actual site progress. Monica proactively began restructuring schedules to match each project's realistic timeline, ensuring successful completion. A colleague's suggestion to become a utility consultant for those needing guidance through the complex process sparked her entrepreneurial journey. She now holds utilities accountable by enforcing the Greenbook: Standard Specifications for Public Works Construction, a cornerstone document updated triennially since 1967 that helps prevent conflicts in public agency specifications.

Monica's self-discovery journey paralleled her business's evolution. She maintains an unwavering positive outlook while prioritizing both client satisfaction and employee well-being. This service-oriented approach transformed her perspective, enabling her to spot opportunities where others see obstacles. Her entrepreneurial foundation rests on core principles of honesty, integrity, vision, creativity, and passionate dedication.

Like many business owners, Monica grappled with service pricing challenges. Finding the sweet spot that sustains business growth while supporting employees required careful consideration. She developed the ability to make prompt decisions based on available information, remaining flexible enough to adjust course when necessary. Her success stems from embracing both acceptance and adaptability.

For someone devoted to continuous learning in their field, being labeled an expert can feel uncomfortable. Monica shares this sentiment despite being recognized as an industry powerhouse. She maintains that her clients' financial investments deserve the utmost consideration, driving her mission to deliver exceptional service. Her commitment to holding utilities accountable reflects her dedication to client advocacy. She views herself and her team as champions for her clients' utility needs, particularly with PG&E. This deep-rooted commitment to serve others fuels Monica's drive, aspiring to create a lasting impact for her team and family.

Monica shares invaluable wisdom for aspiring entrepreneurs. Rather than starting from scratch, she advises leveraging existing frameworks. Begin with your maximum available resources and strategically identify tasks that can be delegated, allowing you to focus on business-critical activities that drive growth. In California's complex regulatory landscape, maintaining compliance with employment regulations is crucial. She emphasizes securing HR support promptly when needed.

Monica takes immense pride in her team's dedication to client advocacy. Their stellar Yelp reviews reflect their professional excellence, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency. Building a reputation for fairness, credibility, and integrity remains paramount, values that Monica's team embodies wholeheartedly. As a visionary leader and entrepreneur, Monica champions innovative thinking and client-centric solutions. She emphasizes the importance of supporting forward-thinking individuals who prioritize customer outcomes. Supporting local businesses is essential – they form the backbone of our communities.