Coach Conversations with Maria Busch, ACC

Maria knew she wanted to help others as early as 7 years old. Her early thoughts lead her to pursue a Master’s in Social Work. She successfully obtained her degree, and immediately was hired as a social worker for a residential treatment program for adolescent boys. She provided group, individual & family therapy for boys ranging in age of 15-17. After 3.5 years in this high stress volatile environment, she realized she wanted the chance to work in win-win situations. She obtained a position as a supervisor in Pacific Bell. Interestingly enough she utilized all the same skills as she had in juvenile probation. In this position she developed skills as a leader, trainer and facilitator. Over the next 8 years, she focused on the challenges of communication.

A lifestyle change led her to pursue a new opportunity.  She was hired into a position with Vanguard, as an employee relations specialist. In this role, she discovered coaching. Her work with both employees and leaders lead her to explore helping people find their own answers rather than offering advice or telling them what to do. She pursued Coach training with Coach U and eventually became credentialed. Maria applies a coach approach to all that she does at Vanguard. As a result coaching is being utilized throughout the organization. Her coaching includes working with employees & leaders. This coaching involves areas of performance management, conflict resolution, career advancement, strengths assessment & challenging people situations. She trains & coaches leaders on the skills and techniques of Crucial Conversations.

Maria is a Certified Coach with the International Coach Federation.  She is currently the President if the ICF Phoenix Chapter. Her other involvements have been as a mentor at Freshstart, member of Toastmasters & SHRM.