As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, the role of women in shaping the nation’s future continues to evolve from exclusion from civic life to leadership across government, business, and the military. Joanne M. Frederick, CEO of Government Market Strategies, reflects on that transformation, the progress still underway, and what the next generation of women leaders can expect.
What the Founders Would Notice Most
Asked what might surprise the nation’s founders most about women’s leadership today, Frederick pointed to both scale and influence.
“I think what would surprise them most is not simply that women hold leadership positions today, but the breadth and impact of those roles. Women are leading major corporations, serving in senior military positions, shaping public policy, and helping guide some of the nation’s most important institutions. For much of our nation’s history, those opportunities simply did not exist. Today, women are increasingly recognized for their expertise, judgment, and ability to lead.”
She also emphasized the character behind that leadership.
“What I believe would resonate most with the founders, however, is the courage demonstrated by so many women leaders. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working alongside extraordinary women who were willing to take risks, challenge assumptions, and step into roles where there was no established path before them. I think the founders would recognize that courage and celebrate it. Women are not afraid of making bold moves, and that is something we should all encourage and value.”
Milestones and Everyday Progress
Frederick acknowledged historic achievements such as voting rights and expanded education, but stressed that progress is built incrementally.
“History often remembers the milestones—the right to vote, expanded educational opportunities, and women entering leadership positions in government, business, healthcare, and the military. Those achievements deserve to be celebrated because they changed what was possible for future generations.”
Still, she said the real story is in daily effort.
“But I believe the real story is much bigger than any single milestone. Progress happens because women make the decision every day to take the next step. The milestones we celebrate are really the result of countless small acts of courage, perseverance, and determination that often go unnoticed.”
She added, “I would encourage every woman reading this to take the next step, whatever that step may be, and link arms with others who are doing the same.”
Lessons for Future Leaders
For young women entering public service, Frederick emphasized incremental growth and courage.
“One lesson I would encourage young women to remember is that success rarely happens all at once. When we read about accomplished women leaders, it is easy to focus on the headline achievement. What we often do not see are the countless small steps that led there.”
Her advice is direct.
“Perhaps the most important lesson is to have the courage to raise your hand. Volunteer for the assignment. Share the idea. Apply for the position. Join the conversation. That willingness to raise your hand is often the difference between watching change happen and being the person who helps create it.”
Gaps and Opportunity
Frederick pointed to ongoing challenges in how women support one another in professional settings.
“One area where I believe we still have room to grow is in how women support and advocate for one another in the workplace… I’ve occasionally seen situations where women viewed each other as competitors rather than allies.”
She emphasized collaboration over competition.
“I’ve come to believe that when one woman succeeds, all women benefit… Rather than competing for a single seat at the table, we should be focused on building bigger tables.”
Mentorship and the Future
Frederick described mentorship as visibility as much as guidance.
“Mentorship is incredibly important, but I believe its impact goes beyond simply offering advice.”
It also includes sharing challenges and resilience.
“For me, mentorship means sharing not only successes, but also the courage, setbacks, and lessons that came with achieving them.”
She added a guiding message she often returns to:
“One of my favorite quotes comes from Billie Holiday: “The difficult I’ll do right now, the impossible will take a little while.””
Looking Ahead
Frederick remains optimistic about the next generation of women leaders.
“What gives me optimism is that I see women today building on the progress of those who came before them while also creating entirely new paths of their own.”
She also highlighted emerging technology as a key driver of opportunity.
“My advice to women of all ages is simple: learn everything you can about AI and other emerging technologies, then go out and change the world… I believe the future of women’s leadership is exceptionally bright.”
