Change is rarely comfortable, but it’s almost always where the magic happens. A few years ago, I made one of the biggest and best leaps of my life. I packed up, moved to Utah and decided it was time to get healthier, stronger and a little braver. I didn’t know a soul here, but I knew I needed a reset and a chance to see what would happen if I went all in on me.
At the time, I was working as an executive assistant, a role I loved but one that kept me behind the curtain. For someone who had always been comfortable in the spotlight on game day, that felt unfamiliar. I’d dreamed of moving into sales, but with no experience and a lot of nerves, I kept talking myself out of it. Eventually, I realized betting on yourself means moving before you feel prepared and that was my cue to leap.
So, I asked what I could do to prepare, rolled up my sleeves and started selling products like an intern: no commission, no title, just pure drive. I wanted to gain experience before I ever asked for the job. It wasn’t glamorous, but it gave me real-world confidence and the momentum I needed for the next leap.
Growth Comes from Taking Risks
The truth is, you’re never completely ready for the big stuff, whether it’s a career change, a new challenge or something that stretches you. Confidence doesn’t show up before the leap. It’s built one uncomfortable step at a time.
Moving from executive assistant to account executive wasn’t just a job change. It was a mindset shift. I learned to be bold, to recover fast and to measure success not only by results but by courage and consistency.
Finding My People and My Dream Job
When I landed in Utah, I didn’t know anyone. So, I joined the Salt Lake Chamber and later became a President’s Ambassador to meet people, give back and learn from others doing big things. That single decision completely changed my life.
Through the Chamber, I met another President’s Ambassador who just so happened to be hiring, and that connection led me straight to my current account executive role. Talk about a full-circle moment. Fast forward to today, and I’m thriving in a career I love, closing deals and doing exactly what once scared me the most.
Your Turn to Leap
If you’re standing on the edge of something big, here’s what I’ve learned along the way:
- Start before you’re ready. Waiting for the perfect time just means waiting forever.
- Find your tribe. The right people can change everything, personally and professionally.
- Invest in yourself. Mentorship, community and development always pay off.
- Give yourself grace. Growth takes time, but every step counts.
A Community That Lifts You Higher
I’m proud of how far I’ve come, but even more grateful for the community that helped me get here. The Salt Lake Chamber and Business Women’s Forum have been game changers, connecting women who support, mentor and inspire one another to keep growing.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: the best investment and the best bet you’ll ever make is the one you make on yourself!
About Mariah Knopp-Chavez, Account Executive, Executech
Mariah Knopp-Chavez is an Account Executive at Executech, where she helps organizations leverage technology to support growth and security. She has worked in the tech industry for seven years, beginning her career as an Executive Assistant before transitioning into sales in January 2025.
Originally from the Pacific Northwest, Mariah graduated from Eastern Washington University and moved to Utah in 2021. Prior to tech, she organized and ran 3-on-3 basketball tournaments across the West Coast, an experience that shaped her love for logistics, relationships and fast-moving environments.
Outside of work, Mariah loves spending time with her amazing husband and sweetest stepdaughter, still plays competitive soccer and cheers VERY loudly for Gonzaga basketball.
*Any reference obtained from this blog to a specific initiative, issue or topic does not constitute or imply an endorsement by the Salt Lake Chamber. The views and opinions expressed in this blog do not necessarily reflect those of the Salt Lake Chamber.
