Pennye L. Bray
Environmental Director for the Water Division
ECCI
Pennye L. Bray is environmental director for the Water Division at ECCI, an environmental engineering and consulting firm in Little Rock. A graduate of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Bray has worked in the environmental field for 35 years, beginning as a chemist and later serving as manager of the first aquatic toxicity testing laboratory certified in the state of Arkansas. In this role, Bray was responsible for overseeing several colonies of test organisms to meet the required EPA criteria and standards, ensuring all bioassays were scheduled and properly conducted, QA/QC for all data produced, statistical analysis of the data, report writing and managing the staff in the toxicity lab. Bray eventually transitioned into consulting where she has worked for the last 30 years.
In her current role, she works with industries all over Arkansas and surrounding states to assist in compliance with environmental permits and reporting requirements. Bray manages numerous projects, assists other employees in ensuring that projects are completed, and is involved in bringing in new business, submitting cost proposals and mentoring new employees.
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Life begins at 50, the saying goes, to which the incomparable Phyllis Diller once replied, “Maybe it’s true that life begins at 50. But everything else starts to wear out, fall out or spread out.” (The women and men included on the following pages, at least, will find that funny … not to mention, they actually know who Phyllis Diller is.)
Fifty is the new 40, or something like that, but in this Ponce de Leon age of youth worship, we at AMP thought it would be nice to recognize those business leaders in Arkansas who aren’t under 40 or in their 20s. Once one hits the milestone age of 50, life doesn’t stop, after all. For many, it speeds up. Nominated by readers, the leaders recognized in AMP’s inaugural Fifty Over 50 list haven’t slowed down — they have realized more success, achieved new goals and even launched entirely new chapters. And we salute them.
The vigor of youth is a beautiful and necessary thing. But so is the wisdom and discernment of age. Besides, like the saying goes, 50 is nothing more than the new 40, right?
The members of AMP’s inaugural Fifty Over 50 list were nominated by readers. They represent a broad spectrum of Arkansas business, industry and politics. They are former state legislators, business owners, CEOs
and more who represent industries ranging from farming and construction
to restaurants and retail.
Some of them started on an upward trajectory early in their careers and haven’t slowed down. Others began new chapters later in their journeys and achieved success — and made profound impacts on their communities — in new ways.
We’re proud to recognize these women and men-… experienced, seasoned Arkansas leaders whose collective journey is just beginning.
Click here to see the full list of 2022 AMP Fifty Over 50!
