Meet Billie Crapo, Elko Area Chamber of Commerce
The Nevada Mining Association is proud to recognize two women doing great work in Nevada mining communities at the May 24th Salute to Women of Achievement ceremony in Reno. Get to know one of the recipients: Billie Crapo, CEO of the Elko Area Chamber of Commerce.
Check out our Q&A with the NvMA’s other recipient, Melissa Harmon, General Manager at Newmont Mining’s Twin Creeks Mine.
Name: Billie Crapo
Organization: Elko Area Chamber
Title: CEO
Tell us about yourself and your career path.
I was born and raised in the small mining community of Kellogg, Idaho. I married my high school sweetheart, and together we had one son. We spent several years following mining jobs in Arizona and eventually ended up in Elko, Nevada. I was blessed with the opportunity to stay home and raise our son. During that time, I volunteered at his school, his sports activities, in our community and lead many youth activities at our church. When my marriage ended, I found myself in need of a way to support myself and was encouraged to apply for the Membership position at the Chamber and I haven’t looked back since. The job allowed me to be still be able to volunteer, help others in the community, build relationships and get a paycheck. It couldn’t get any better than that. I continued to receive promotions and eventually was offered the CEO position. I married again to the love of my life, Steve, and gained a whole other family. Together we share five sons, two daughters in laws, and three grandsons.
What do you enjoy about your job?
There isn’t a whole lot to not enjoy about my job. I have an amazing staff that I can’t wait to see every morning and a board of directors that continues to support and encourage me and understands my passion for our members and our community. How many people get to go to a job everyday that they love, get to help people grow their businesses, and help make our community a better place to live? Everyday is different, one day I am working on budgets, and the next day I am planning, attending or volunteering at an event. I love the fact that I am not stuck behind a desk.
Were there any women who helped inspire you throughout your life or career?
My mother has always been an inspiration for me. She raised five children, went back to school, fulfilled her dream of becoming a registered nurse and still gave her time to others. She taught me compassion for others, the importance of treating everyone with respect and to always give back to your community. I am grateful that I have such a beautiful soul as a role model.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Sometimes I feel like I don’t have a lot time outside of work. There is always an event, a meeting, a lunch or dinner to attend, so when I have down time I take full advantage. I enjoy every second I spend with my husband, whether it’s traveling, riding on the Harley, spending time with the family or even a lazy day at home on the couch reading. I love to spend time with our grandsons, their energy and love of life is contagious.
What professional advice would you give to young women?
My advice to young women is to always be real. Be the person you want to be, not the person you are expected to be. Building relationships with others is one of the most important things you can do for your career, and always be humble and kind.