By EMMA DELK

WHEELING — A piece of advice that Jodi Harkness has taken to heart over her 15 years in the financial field is to “control what you can control.”

As vice president and director of operations at Hazlett Burt & Watson, the 43-year-old has learned to be selective in how she delegates work and to whom she gives responsibilities.

“Years ago, I learned the hard way that not everyone has the same work ethic that I do,” Harkness said. “In previous roles, there were certain things that I could refer to a colleague or handle myself where the client should have received the same outcome. I learned quickly that was not always the case.”

Her long career in finance has led her to a leadership position at the investment firm. Her role is to ensure that clients and financial advisers receive the support they need while also maintaining the compliance and functionality of the company.

The philosophy of controlling one’s life applies to how she believes a young woman starting out in any field should tackle obstacles – by always standing her ground.

“There will be people you encounter who want to see you fail or try to tell you you’re not good enough,” Harkness added. “Work hard to achieve your goals and prove your naysayers wrong.”

Harkness drew attention to the fact that looking back in time, the finance field has been dominated by men. She is thrilled to see more and more women not only enter the field, but hold leadership roles as well.

To see women in decision-making and leadership roles signals for Harkness a change in the employment opportunities available for women in the Ohio Valley.

Another passion Harkness has found through her finance career is making a difference in others’ lives, no matter how small this difference may be. Though she does not see customers too often in her back-office position, Harkness finds helping others still the most rewarding part of the field.

“I know it’s cliché to say that everyone is fighting some type of battle, so if I’m able to help someone ease some stress or reach a goal it makes the work I do all worthwhile,” she said.

The spirit of helping others is one Harkness sees reflected back to her in the Ohio Valley. She noted she never wants to see the area’s “small-town feel” change.

“Being able to walk into a restaurant, store, the bank or post office and know most if not all of the folks is one of my favorite things about living here,” she pointed out. “The tight-knit communities that make up the Ohio Valley make this a place like no other.”

Harkness resides in Brookside with her husband Greg, 13-year-old daughter Olivia and dog Izzy.

While living in the area, Harkness finds that residents “always seem to be cheering for one another to succeed.”

As an active member of the Bridgeport Women’s Club, Harkness strives to grow this optimistic attitude in the area alongside her fellow members.

“The Ohio Valley is a welcoming place for any transplant from other parts of the country,” Harkness said. “That’s something you won’t find in other regions.”