In 2024, Woods founded Athena Engineering, a woman‑owned civil engineering firm focused on roadway, safety, and mobility improvements. She has built the company’s operations from the ground up, emphasizing accountability, scalability and client trust. Her industry involvement includes active participation in the American Council of Engineering Cos. state chapter, as well as completing the American Road and Transportation Builders Association Industry Leaders Development Program. She has been recognized repeatedly as one of the most influential women in Georgia engineering.

What is one challenge that you’ve overcome in your career?

I am always learning and evolving, and I do not classify career challenges as "overcome." But one recurring challenge I have learned from is rapid growth, both in my individual career and at Athena Engineering. To me, the key has been staying true to both my personal and the company's core values and principles and always asking whether a given decision is consistent with those.

What has been your favorite or most interesting project you’ve worked on and why?

I have to spotlight the Akers Mill Ramp extension project in north metro Atlanta. The project posed significant technical challenges and involved many stakeholders with diverse priorities and needs. I started working on the design of this project as a junior engineer when it was just a proof of concept, and ultimately served as Project Manager and Engineer of Record. I learned so much during the process, and I always make a point to drive by it when I can; be sure to point it out to my kids every time.

What is the best career advice you have ever received?

There are two things that stand out to me that I am very grateful to have heard at the right point in my career: follow your north star, and act like you are on a stage.

What’s your career advice for other young professionals in the industry?

Invest in relationships with clients, colleagues, mentors and supervisors. And say yes as much as you possibly can.

What’s the best part of your job?

I feel fortunate that this is a hard question for me to answer. Now at Athena, I seem to discover a new “best part” every week. What excites me right now is creating a workplace and culture that authentically invests in employees. Seeing our team laughing together, learning from one another, and being so comfortable and at home in our office is simply indescribable. Enabling their success means everything to me.