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In a role where responsiveness, precision, and relationships all intersect, leadership is not just about managing workflows. It is about building a team that can adapt, grow, and perform together.
For Jessica Cercone, Manager of Account Management at HICO America, that mindset has been shaped by a journey defined not by a straight path, but by resilience, self-discovery, and the decision to lead authentically.
An Unexpected Path Forward
A Pennsylvania native from West Mifflin, Jessica originally planned to become an elementary education teacher. But at just 20 years old, alife-changing diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes forced her to rethink her future. With the need for stability and access to health insurance, she made a strategic pivot toward accounting and finance.
Her work ethic started early, taking her first job at McDonald’s at just 15. From there, her career spanned roles in corporate finance and healthcare, where she often felt disconnected from both the work and the culture around her.
It was not until she joined a smaller, people-focused organization that everything shifted. For the first time, she experienced leadership that genuinely invested in her growth. That experience became a turning point.
Encouraged to step outside her comfort zone, Jessica was pushed into presenting and building relationships. What once felt uncomfortable quickly became a strength, ultimately shaping the foundation for her career in sales.
Leading with Authenticity
One of the most impactful lessons Jessica carries with her is simple:
Be uniquely yourself.
Early in her career, trying to fit into rigid corporate environments and expectations often led to frustration. Over time, she learned that her success came not from adapting to others, but from leaning into who she is.
Direct, driven, and highly efficient, Jessica leads with clarity and honesty. She believes that strong teams are built on open communication, accountability, and trust.
“I lead the way I want to be led,” she explains. “Be clear, be honest, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. That’s how you learn.”
Today, she manages a team of eight, creating an environment where individuals feel comfortable owning challenges, learning from them, and moving forward together.
Growth at HICO
Joining HICO marked another major turning point. Coming from healthcare and finance, the power industry was entirely new to her.
“At first, I didn’t think I could learn it,” she admits.
But HICO’s entrepreneurial culture gave her the opportunity to grow, ask questions, and contribute in meaningful ways. Over time, she advanced within the organization, taking on greater responsibility and helping shape the Account Management function into what it is today.
A major part of that impact has been her involvement in system and process improvements, particularly the implementation and evolution of SAP. What started as a reluctant assignment became one of her proudest accomplishments.
Driven by a passion for efficiency, Jessica has played a key role in improving workflows not only for her team, but across the organization, always looking for ways to create better outcomes for the broader business.
People First
At the core of Jessica’s leadership is a focus on people.
Whether it is building relationships with customers or supporting her internal team, she believes that success starts with understanding the individual. Her team is more than just a group of employees. It is a unit that supports, challenges, and motivates one another.
“When they succeed, I succeed,” she says.
That mindset extends beyond her day-to-day role. Jessica leads both the company’s Philanthropy Committee and WHICO, helping create opportunities for employees to give back and supporting the growth of women across the organization.
Having once felt like “an island” early in her time at HICO, she now takes pride in helping others find their voice and confidence.
Perspective That Matters
Jessica’s experiences have shaped a mindset that guides both her personal and professional life.
Her advice is grounded in two simple principles:
Stay grounded in who you are.
Don’t sweat the small stuff.
Living with Type 1 diabetes has reinforced the importance of focusing on what truly matters. It has given her a deeper understanding that everyone is navigating their own challenges, even when they are not visible.
That perspective shows up in how she leads, how she supports her team, and how she approaches each day.
Life Outside of Work
Outside of the office, Jessica enjoys a quieter pace of life with her husband, Aaron, and their two dogs, Kodi and Ollie. A Pittsburgh native through and through, she values close relationships, a strong support system, and the sense of community that comes with it.
Whether it is traveling, spending time with loved ones, or enjoying a summer evening at a Pirates game, she embraces balance and the importance of being present.
Behind the Power
Jessica’s story is a reminder that leadership is not about fitting a mold. It is about building something real, grounded in trust, accountability, and authenticity.
From navigating unexpected challenges to leading ahigh-performing team, her journey reflects what it means to grow, adapt, and bring others along with you.
At HICO America, she is not just managing operations.
She is strengthening connections and driving impact every day.
