Kaitlyn Perez, 32

The high heels Kaitlyn Perez regularly wears to work, where she overseas media relations and communications for the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, are more than a fashion statement.

Perez is also part of the leadership team with the agency, where she helps oversee a $132 million budget and advises the elected Sheriff, Kurt Hoffman, on personnel and strategic decisions. “It’s not traditional to have a woman in that role,” Perez says, “and I need to be seen on my own two feet.”