As a female chief executive officer in a male-dominated industry, one of the greatest leadership lessons Kelly Lazuka learned this past year is the power of authenticity in leadership.
“In environments where you may often feel the pressure to conform or fit into predefined expectations, staying true to who you are—your values, your voice and your unique leadership brand—becomes not just a strength but a transformative force,” she said. “I’ve realized that authenticity not only builds trust and fosters genuine connections but also empowers those around me to bring their full selves to the table.”
This authenticity has been instrumental in Lazuka’s ability to lead Fullerton, a leader in the internet and telecommunications industry, as chief executive officer.
“For me, it’s crucial that my team sees me not just as a chief executive officer but as a whole person—a mom, a wife and someone who brings all those experiences into the way I lead,” she said. “Having an authentic leadership brand means being real and vulnerable, showing that I don’t compartmentalize my life but allow my personal journey to shape the way I make decisions, solve problems and connect with my team.”
As chief executive officer, Lazuka, a two-time Titan 100, has steered the company through a journey of growth, rebranding its identity and expanding service offerings to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving industry. One of her most significant achievements has been the strategic expansion of Fullerton’s construction division, including the integration of fiber construction services. Lazuka’s focus on operational efficiency has resulted in a 3000% increase in EBITDA.
In 2024, Lazuka continued to break barriers, achieving a 172% growth in EBITDA compared to the previous year and securing seven new fiber design and construction customers. She also implemented a vendor management process to align partnerships with Fullerton’s high standards.
Beyond financial milestones, Lazuka has fostered a culture of empowerment and inclusivity at Fullerton. She launched a mentorship program designed to uplift women within the company, providing guidance and resources to help them advance their careers. “By creating a platform where women can learn, grow, and connect with one another, I believe we are shaping future titans who are equipped with the tools and confidence to excel,” she said.
Being recognized as a Titan 100 recipient has been a defining moment for Lazuka. “For me, it’s not just about being recognized, but about the collective strength of this community and how we can work together to drive impactful change,” said Lazuka. “The Titan 100 platform is a reminder that leadership isn’t just about individual success—it’s about using our influence and experiences to elevate others, foster innovation and inspire progress on a much larger scale.”