Nebraska Today has teamed up with the Chancellor’s Commission on the Status of Women to highlight the incredible work of female staff at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. This Women of Service series spotlights women who go above and beyond in their roles, running through March.
Today, we shine the spotlight on Beth Barry, an HVAC/R technician who has been instrumental in maintaining the university’s infrastructure for nearly four years. Barry supports researchers, students, faculty, and staff, ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.
Let’s get to know Beth a bit better.
She grew up with a passion for the technical aspects of maintenance. Holding an associate degree from Southeast Community College and a bachelor’s degree in Agronomy from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Beth spent a decade at Monsanto before joining UNL. She’s come a long way and feels a strong connection to the university.
Beth enjoys many facets of her job. She finds satisfaction in supporting her colleagues and ensuring that systems work seamlessly. Reflecting on her own experiences as a student, she understands the importance of reliable facilities. "When the lights come on or the temperature in the greenhouses is just right, I know it makes a difference," she says.
One of her favorite memories at UNL was working at Memorial Stadium for Volleyball Day, where they set a world record. Although she was busy with maintenance tasks, the excitement of the crowd inspired her. “It was incredible being part of such an energetic event,” she remarked.
Outside of work, Beth leads a fulfilling life with her wife, Greta, and their two young children, Eli and Lark. They spend quality time outdoors, whether it’s hiking, camping, or tending to their extensive vegetable garden and orchard. Beth is keen on creating habitats for pollinators and enjoys watching their 18 chickens roam the yard.
In addition to her work and family life, Beth is an avid runner. Holding a personal best of 3 hours and 13 minutes, she has tackled over a dozen marathons, including the Boston Marathon in 2016. She also aims to run in every county in Nebraska, and so far, she’s completed races in 70 out of 93 counties. “It’s a fun way to discover new places and connect with local communities,” she shared.
Her dedication and passion for her work, family, and health showcase the inspiring spirit of women in service roles.
For more on the contributions of women in various fields, you can read about the achievements recognized by the National Women’s Hall of Fame. It emphasizes the importance of celebrating those who pave the way for others.
Check out this related article: How to Successfully Launch a Freelance Career in 2025
Source link