In celebrating AANHPI Heritage Month, we’re honored to share the story of Eileen Chin, President & CEO of R.M. Chin & Associates in our latest Economic Drivers profile. Eileen lived in Connecticut for three years as a child, but has otherwise been a lifelong Illinoisan, and in her profile, calls us to action: “We need to continue to support Illinois privately-held businesses, and family-owned businesses, as they navigate succession plans. Too many of our mid-market businesses are being bought out by private equity and losing their community connection.”
What inspired your career path and industry involvement?
My career path hasn’t been linear, but at the foundation of the path has been effective communications and delivering infrastructure programs/projects that make an impact on communities.
As an AANHPI leader in your field, what challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?
I have faced the stereotype that, as an Asian woman, I am not assertive, strong, or ‘leadership material.’ I’ve overcome this by taking every opportunity, putting myself in uncomfortable situations, being intentional about visibility—taking on high-impact projects, speaking up in decision-making spaces, and building a track record that I can deliver.
Can you share a key moment in your career that shaped who you are today?
I believe that are several key moments during different times of your career path. As a second-generation owner of our family company, taking the helm of the company as president and CEO 14 years ago was a huge game changer.
Who are (or have been) some of your mentors, role models, or inspirations?
My parents.
What does success look like to you — professionally and/or personally?
Success means that I’m always learning and that I am making a difference in the people around me.
How does being in Illinois contribute to your success as an AANHPI leader (if it does)?
Illinois is a very minority, immigrant-friendly state, which presents opportunities.
What do you love most about living and working in Illinois?
I have spent most of life in Chicago and the suburbs. But, I had the opportunity to go to the University of Illinois. Living in Illinois gives me the opportunity to enjoy one of the largest cities in the U.S., but also also access to experience the cultures, communities and nature in Illinois and the Midwest.
What makes Illinois a strong place for AANHPI business leaders?
Illinois recognizes businesses of all sizes.
What policies, programs, or networks in Illinois have supported your professional growth or your organization’s mission?
The Illinois BEP, DBE, and M/WBE programs have opened opportunities for my organization.
How do you or your organization support your local community or underrepresented groups?
I am involved with the Chinese American community, holding strong to the community that accepted and supported my parents as immigrants. I want to help the next generation understand the importance of contributing to communities and being involved in organizations that shape our policies.
Are there any initiatives or organizations in Illinois that you’re proud to support?
I am proud to be on the Board of Directors of the Chinese American Service League, an organization that has been important to my family.
What inspires you to continue to affect change in your world?
My children. The world I grew up in is different from the world my children are growing up in. Each generation can teach the other lessons.
How can Illinois EDC help elevate or amplify your work and that of your organization?
My industries are infrastructure and development projects, and those are the number one economic generators for our communities. We need to continue to invest in infrastructure, housing, education, and developments that impact communities.
What does AANHPI Heritage Month mean to you personally?
To me personally, that we are recognized as a communities that has contributed to the fabric of this state.
What would you say to a young AANHPI professional considering launching or relocating their career to Illinois?
You will find a welcoming environment that provides opportunities in all industries and education options.
Best business advice you’ve ever given (or received):
If you’re not uncomfortable, you’re not learning or growing.
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