Toni Eberhart is a Strategic Communications Consultant at Booz Allen Hamilton, where she leads impactful initiatives that drive innovation and enhance communication strategies for government clients. Prior to joining Booz Allen, Toni held various leadership roles in manufacturing, commercial technology, and nonprofit organizations. She is passionate about fostering innovation and entrepreneurship through her work with national and local non-profit organizations, including Urban Engine, Launch Entrepreneurship Pillar, TechBirmingham, Startup Champions Network, and Right to Start, all of which aim to increase opportunities for entrepreneurs.

Toni earned her degree from Drexel University’s LeBow College of Business in Philadelphia, PA. She and her husband, Chad, reside in Huntsville, AL, with their three children, where they remain active in their church and community.

What do you love most about living and working in Huntsville?

Huntsville’s culture is my favorite part of living and working here. Whether I am at work, volunteering, in church, or at my children’s school and activities, there is a sense that those around me are very intelligent and care deeply for serving where they are and who they are with. It’s something I think makes us special and unique. I feel so grateful to live in this type of community!

What’s your best advice for starting a career in the Rocket City?

Get involved in the community and, to start, just show up! Huntsville has a welcoming and vibrant ecosystem of nonprofits, meetups, and other groups that provide a platform to meet others who share your interests, develop your network, and find ways to grow in your career field.

How do you like to spend your time outside of work?

I love to run and workout at OrangeTheory Fitness—exercise is a nonnegotiable part of my life! When I’m not doing that, you can likely find me at a baseball, softball, or t-ball field watching my kids play ball.

How do you like to give back to the community, and why is it important to you?

I enjoy serving nonprofit organizations with missions related to technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship because I believe any dream, whether it is new business or the next disruptive invention, can become a reality here. Business pitch competitions, mentoring startups, advocacy activities, and hackathons are all vital parts of our entrepreneurial ecosystem that I find meaningful to support.

Who has been the biggest influence on your career, and what valuable lesson did they teach you?

My Dad, who passed in 2020, was my hero and greatest influence in my career. Among many valuable lessons, he taught me that there is no substitute for hard work, to sit at the front of the room, and to always keep learning on the job and growing as a person.

Where is your favorite place to relax in Huntsville?

Spending time with family in our home, at our community pool, or around our neighborhood with friends. On date night, we know Poppy & Parliament is a surefire place to get a good meal with great service.

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