Meet Erin Ainslie

We had the good fortune of connecting with Erin Ainslie and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erin, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk is scary, It has stopped so many people from changing the trajectory of their lives. I’m terrified of risk. I crave security. However, the life I want for myself and the life I believe God has in store for me, would not be possible without risk.

Throughout my life, I have chased passion over security. I chose careers in non-profits over stable STEM research facilities. I’ve done so because my personal fulfillment is found in impacting the world, other than having a stable and steady income. I have no regrets about any of the choices. Taking risks has paid off and allowed me to have a life where I feel satisfaction in my work.

Taking risks still intimidates me and it probably always will. But risks are not obstacles, they are the stepping stones to a better future.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I currently work as the Director of Operation at Second Chance SPCA. Before working at Second Chance, I did various internships and part time jobs.

I interned with exotic cats at Big Cat Rescue. I worked with local Texas wildlife at North Texas Wildlife Center. Throughout college, I worked at a low cost vaccine clinic, serving low income individuals in DFW. When I tell people about my professional path, most people are amazed at all the cool experiences I have gotten. However, these experiences didn’t fall into my lap, I sought them out using determination and creativity.

The first vet clinic I worked at, I called them and asked if they had positions open for someone with zero experience and they took a chance on me. I sought out multiple exotic animal sanctuaries and did not stop applying until one gave me an internship. I volunteered with wildlife rehabbers until I was able to work with them part time. These experiences taught me an invaluable lesson: success doesn’t come from waiting, it comes from putting yourself out there and asking for opportunities until someone says yes.

I firmly believe that people can get into any career field they aspire to. It takes creativity, persistence, and a willingness to embrace the new experiences. My professional path has been a series of bold asks, and I’m here today because I dared to ask.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
In you visit Dallas, and you’re looking for a very Texas experience, I always recommend Cowboys Red River, it’s a country dance hall. They have lessons early on in the night so it’s a great place for beginners. Meeting new people is so easy at Red River, I almost always make new friends whenever I go.

If you love dancing, but prefer a quiet environment, I love Dallas Swing Dance Society. They also offer lessons early on in the night. Everyone in the community is super friendly and welcoming.

If someone appreciates art and whimsy, Rainbow Vomit it the place to be. It’s an interactive art museum that’s great for exploring and encouraging creativity.

If you’re looking for a trendy place to eat that’s totally worth the price, Seapot is so fun. They offer unlimited Korean BBQ and hot pot.

Growing up in Fort Worth, my family’s favorite place to eat was Sam Won Garden. It’s family owned and serves authentic Korean food.

Another small owned business in Fort Worth that I love is Charley’s Old Fashioned Hamburgers. Every Fort Worth local know and loves it.

For animal lovers, Heritage Farmstead Museum in Plano is a quaint experience that I love to go to.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to Second Chance SPCA. I started volunteering at Second Chance in 2019, while I was still a freshmen in college. Their staff allowed me to get so much hands on experienced and trusted me with so many important tasks. After I graduated college, they hired me onto their staff.

Second Chance SPCA has been much more than a workplace; it’s been a place of growth and support. Their volunteers and board members have taught me so much about managing an organization. They have never shunned me for asking for help. And they encourage me as I grow as a person and a member of their organization.

The board at Second Chance SPCA has given me the confidence to succeed in all areas of life. I am forever grateful for their mentorship and faith in me

Website: https://secondchancespca.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/secondchancespca/