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W W W. M A I N E B I Z . B I Z 13 O C T O B E R 7 , 2 0 2 4 AWA R D 4 0 U N D E R 4 0 'Lightbulb' moment: The one that set me on my cur- rent path happened in the summer of 2018 and was the result of personal things I was experiencing at the time as well as current events happening in our country. I questioned what I was doing with my life and made the scary decision to abandon the path I was on at the time and pivot. Thankfully, it's worked out so far. Audacious goal: Win the lottery so I can give my mom everything she's ever wanted and spend my time travel- ing and volunteering. Favorite quote: The Golden Rule Influential book: The last book I've kept thinking about is "Pachinko," by Min Jin Lee. I think it's because I could see my own family's story (I'm first-generation Mexican- American) through the characters in the book. Favorite TV shows: Anything on Bravo — "Summer House," "Below Deck" and any of the "Real Housewives" series Best way to recharge: By going out to dinner, spend- ing time by the ocean, taking a spin class, reading or spending time with friends. At age 60: Hopefully, living in a world where more people who look like me are in positions of influence and authority. Growing smart device sales in health care systems across the nation Taylor Benay, 30 Director of marketing, Hexmodal Significant professional accomplishment: It has been a collection of small steps that have brought me to where I am today. It was the courage to apply for posi- tions I knew I wasn't qualified for, move across the country, surround myself with people smarter than me, build a company and spend my free time volunteer- ing. These steps have brought me here, where I'm proud of my career, my state and the community I'm part of. That in itself is a significant accomplishment. Passion project: I want to future-proof health care building codes and regulations, so I'm committed to seeing an [National Fire Code Protection Association] code change I submitted come to life. 'Lightbulb' moment: The 'lightbulb' moment came at 15 when I realized there is no excuse not to follow your dreams. My family lost every- thing when I was in high school, so I left high school to rebuild my life. This changed everything; I was determined never to depend on anyone else for my happiness or livelihood. Audacious goal: To deploy Hexmodal smart devices in all 50 states. We are currently in 38! Favorite quote: "Just keep swimming" — Dory Influential book: "Fast Food Nation," by Eric Schlosser Favorite podcast: "Nice Try," by Curbed Best way to recharge: Sleep! Nothing gives me more energy than a good night's sleep. At age 60: I see myself continu- ing to make an impact in my com- munity, but with a narrow focus. I'll still be active in my career, perhaps in a different capacity, while pursuing new challenges. I also hope to have a family of my own, and I look forward to supporting them as they start their own journey through this amazing thing we call life. Joann Bautista's passion project is supporting women's sports. I want to future-proof health care building codes and regulations. — Taylor Benay Hexmodal ©2024 KeyCorp. KeyBank Member FDIC. 221108-1326908-1277985772 We believe achievements that have a positive impact on people and the community should always be recognized. Thank you, 2024 MaineBiz 40 Under 40 Honorees, for your dedication, and congratulations on your honor. Your commitment to others is inspiring. congratulations! C O N T I N U E D O N F O L L OW I N G PA G E » P H O T O / T I M G R E E N WAY

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