Boundless energy has always been part of my makeup,” says Pam Stanek, co-owner of Omaha’s The Interior Design Firm, “I’m happiest when I’m busy.”

As the oldest of six girls, Stanek was bound to attain the leadership skills needed to succeed in the ever-creative and competitive world of interior design. “Entrepreneurship is evident in my family,” Stanek explains. “My family-owned businesses, my husband is a retired business owner, and four of my children own businesses.” This would explain her talent as an entrepreneur and the success of The Interior Design Firm, which she became part-owner of over 30 years ago with now-retired Charlotte Dann. Stanek is also an active member of the ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) Nebraska-Iowa Chapter, is on the board for UMB Bank, and supports many charitable organizations.

However, it’s never ‘all work and no play’ for Stanek. She enjoys golf, travel, and spending time with her family at her lake house in Fremont during the summers. Health is also an important aspect of her life, as she says, “I attempt to keep healthy by walking, exercising, and doing light weights several times a week. I do stretching exercises every day, which I feel is necessary as one ages.”

Aside from her business and hobbies, Stanek prides herself on being the matriarch of her family. She has five children and 14 grandchildren with husband Ed, and says, “I feel I have accomplished many things, the greatest being my family. Ed and I watched our children grow into amazing people.” Stanek adds, “It’s great to be in our 60s and have the opportunity to enjoy our family and friends.”