This past Saturday, March 8th, was International Women’s Day, and in honor of this global celebration, we’re shining a spotlight on the powerhouse women of Mach 1. From seasoned professionals in legislative affairs to some of the sharpest minds in public relations, our all-women team delivers exceptional results for our clients every single day.
Each of our team members brings a wealth of unique experiences to our firm. We’re proud to showcase their achievements and honor the impact they make not only for our clients but also on each individual team member. Read on to see the thoughtful and uplifting messages our team shared in celebration of their incredible colleagues.
Katherine McLane, Founder & CEO
“Katherine is the definition of grace under pressure, leading with poise, confidence and razor-sharp intellect. She cuts through the noise, gets to the heart of any issue and leads with both precision and warmth. As CEO, she sets the standard – not just in strategy, but in the way she empowers her team, creating an environment where everyone feels supported and challenged to be their best. And beyond all that, she’s effortlessly funny, making even the most intense moments lighter and a lot more fun.”
– Mary Love
“Katherine is a true role model—bold, polished, intelligent and an incredible leader who brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to every challenge. She is not afraid to roll up her sleeves when needed. She fosters a supportive and engaging team environment, making her a joy to work with. Plus, her quick wit and great sense of humor make even the busiest days more fun!”
– Alice Claiborne
“What an honor it is to work with and learn from THE thought leader of the public affairs realm. What I love about Katherine is not only her effortless ability to conquer any challenge, but to see such a powerful person know how to let loose and have fun in her work! It is a joy to not just work with her, but to have a laugh with her as well!”
– Carsyn Collins
Mary Love, Partner & Chief Operating Officer
“Mary ensures all of our work and reputation are gold-standard. She works hard to ensure our clients are getting what they need — and what they don’t know they need. And while she’s focused on the overall health of the organization, she never fails to check in on each member of the team.”
– Jamie McCormick
“Mary is the backbone of our firm – clever, detail-oriented and effortlessly balancing the business and client sides of our work with grace. Her sharp mind is an invaluable asset on both team and client calls, always bringing thoughtful insights and solutions. At her core, she is deeply invested in the success of the firm and the well-being of her team, making her an incredible leader and colleague.”
– Alice Claiborne
“Mary and I could talk ALL day if we had the time! She offers great wisdom and I love how she is a deep thinker who appreciates new angles of looking at things. I deeply value her advice and love her attitude toward life!”
– Sarah Allen
Talan Tyminski, Senior Vice President and Client Service Director
“Talan has made herself integral to every facet of our firm. She can do it all and oftentimes she does – IT, HR, historian, client manager, writer, coder, graphic designer. Talan is always considerate, empathetic and remarkably stoic. She is never afraid to roll up her sleeves and get in the weeds. She has earned the nickname DJ Pivot Tables.”
– Caroline Payne
“We all want to be Talan when we grow up! Her strategic mind is unmatched, and she’s a generous mentor, always ready to talk through a challenge. She improves everything she touches.”
– Sharon Chapman
“Literally the mitochondria of Mach 1. Talan is such a strong force and I aspire to be her! I know she takes on way more than our team will ever see and she always handles it with such grace. Not only is she the most sharp and humble person, she will also never miss an opportunity to support the community, whether it’s a networking event or an invaluable research project, she loves to help anyone and everyone succeed!”
– Carsyn Collins
Alice Claiborne, Vice President and Director of Earned Media
“Alice feels like a big sister to me – she leads with grace and sure-footed confidence. If she says jump, I’d ask how high. With a background in both the Capitol and media, she has the exact, niche expertise and skillset to provide advice and strategy on all accounts, no matter the issue!”
– Caroline Payne
“Alice is the social glue that keeps Mach 1 running. With an impressively strategic mind, she’s the go-to expert on all things media and policy, ensuring everything stays on track and ahead of the curve.”
– Talan Tyminski
“If ‘cool’ were a human, it would be Alice. In all our years together, not once have I seen her freak out. Her unfailing instincts combined with her amazing government and media experience make her the most effective leader and mentor in nearly any room. And she’s the dearest friend and mother.”
– Katherine McLane
Caroline Payne, Vice President
“Caroline can step back and find a new way to approach an issue or problem and, critically, she will cut through the noise and identify the simplest and clearest path forward. She puts in the work to make sure the team’s clients see success and that all details are handled.”
– Jamie McCormick
“Caroline’s sharp wit and effortless charm make every day brighter, bringing both humor and ease to the team and our clients. She has a natural ability to create a welcoming and confident atmosphere, making her an invaluable presence in any room. Plus, as our resident fashionista, I always look forward to seeing what polished and stylish ensemble she’ll rock next!”
– Alice Claiborne
“The IT girl of Mach 1. Caroline is the most charismatic, funny and innovative person I know. Once she has an idea, she will not only run with it but turn it into a marathon. Her ability to create outstanding results for our clients is not something you come across every day. She works so hard and always does it with a smile!”
– Carsyn Collins
Sharon Chapman, Vice President
“When I need a comforting chat – Sharon. When an expert media opinion is called for – Sharon. Want to talk old Austin lore, music, food? Sharon. She has quickly become one of the most beloved members of our team and has grown so amazingly during her time with Mach 1. How did we live without her?”
– Katherine McLane
“Sharon is the heart of Mach 1 – kind, supportive and genuine – and she’s also brilliant. Her earned media expertise and sharp editorial instincts make her an invaluable resource for our clients, while her warmth and humor make her an ideal colleague. Whether she’s offering thoughtful advice, refining a strategy or crafting the perfect media pitch, Sharon elevates everything she touches for both our clients and our team.”
– Mary Love
“If you ever want to chit-chat, Sharon’s your girl! She is SO fun to chat with, and we can never seem to end our conversations! She always offers the best advice and is happy to lend a helping hand! Also, Sharon is extremely talented in breaking down intricate issues into easily communicated topics. An incredible mentor to have!”
– Carsyn Collins
Jamie McCormick, Senior Strategist
“Jamie is a Capitol institution – when you walk into a room with Jamie, at least 15 people will know her (and they all adore her). Jamie is creative, intentional and trustworthy, making her a great asset to our team, but she’s also funny and brave which makes her a great human.”
– Caroline Payne
“Jamie’s positivity is contagious, bringing energy and enthusiasm to every endeavor. Her legislative and policy experience is a huge asset, and if you need a creative idea or a fresh take on a situation, she’s the one to turn to. With great instincts and a keen strategic mind, Jamie is a fantastic sounding board and a valued voice on our team.”
– Alice Claiborne
“Jamie’s decades of experience around the Capitol have made her a public affairs rockstar – she knows the Legislature inside and out. Her strategic mind and deep policy expertise help clients navigate complex challenges, and she has a rare ability to shift perspectives in the most insightful way. What truly sets Jamie apart is her unshakable strength paired with genuine empathy, bringing both steadiness and sincerity to every conversation. She’s the kind of colleague everyone hopes to have, and we’re all better for working alongside her.”
– Mary Love
Sarah Allen, Senior Director
“If there is an answer to a question to be found – Sarah will find it. She is remarkably intelligent and will always be well-researched on topics pertaining to our clients. She balances an impressive amount of tasks at once, and is always looking for even more opportunities!”
– Caroline Payne
“I’m so impressed with Sarah. She handles tough client situations with incredible grace and never stops pushing forward. She’s incredibly dedicated and great and what she does.”
– Talan Tyminski
“I’ll have whatever Sarah’s having! She works incredibly hard, is always ready with sleeves rolled up, has tremendous instincts and experience and in a short time, has proven herself invaluable to the team. Sarah’s future is amazingly bright and we’re so grateful for her!”
– Katherine McLane
Carsyn Collins, Account Executive
“Carsyn’s creativity and fresh perspectives have given new life to our team! Her qualifications and experience far exceed her age – I genuinely forget she’s Gen Z (huge compliment!). She has a warm and confident presence that comes across even through a Zoom screen. Some say she slays.”
– Caroline Payne
“Creative, funny and smart. She is always up for a challenge and you can throw nearly any idea at her and she’ll make it better. Carsyn brings the best energy to the team.”
– Jaime McCormick
“Carsyn is a breath of fresh air and a creative thinker. Her ideas slay, of course! She regularly finds new ways to engage the public and showcase both clients and the work of our hardworking Mach 1 team.”
– Sharon Chapman
