Julie Giese rehabbed the mile-long raceway in suburban Avondale, AZ like a Phoenix rising from the ashes.
Giese sat down to discuss who and what inspires her and how she has one of the best jobs in the world.
1.- Who has Influenced your life the most?
My family, especially my parents, Russ & Barb, and my brother Wayne. They are tremendous role models and being dairy farmers, they taught me the value of hard work early on.
2.- What are your proudest achievements?
I have a few. Here at Phoenix Raceway, I’m proud to be part of the team that opened Phoenix Raceway in November 2018 to a sold-out crowd immediately after completion of the $178 million modernization project and ultimately hosted a successful first-ever NASCAR Championship Weekend during the COVID-19 pandemic.
During my time at Daytona International Speedway, I had the opportunity to work on several significant events & projects, including the $400 million DAYTONA Rising renovation project, the 50th Running of the DAYTONA 500 in 2008 and the 50th Anniversary of the Rolex 24 in 2012.
3.- Who Inspires you?
Our team at Phoenix Raceway and our race fans. 2020 marked the first NASCAR Championship race weekend held at Phoenix Raceway and due to the pandemic, it looked a lot different than we hoped. I’m proud that we executed a safe & successful event with a limited number of people in attendance. Despite these challenges, our team, industry and especially our race fans remained upbeat and positive, and the momentum leading into this year’s NASCAR Championship Weekend is tangible.
4.- What advice would you give someone pursuing a career in what you do?
Raise your hand. Over the years I learned that you have to be your biggest advocate and raise your hand when there are new opportunities or challenges you want to take on. That’s the only way you know for sure that you’ll be considered; you can’t rely on others to raise your hand for you.
5- What makes an inspiring woman?
For me, it’s about never giving up. I’m inspired by women who continue to raise the bar and push forward despite roadblocks and challenges that are thrown their way.
Tell us five things no one knows about you?
- I played the clarinet in high school band.
- I received the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence my senior year at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.
- I like to try my hand at arts & crafts occasionally. It’s such a great stress reliever!
- I have never been on a roller coaster (and I’m good with that!).
5. Baking is one of my favorite things to do.
