A new backup-care program, introduced last year, provides those who work from home or outside the company's central region of Durham and Chapel Hill, NC, with babysitting for just $8 per hour.

The power of mentoring Over her 16-years at BCBSNC, Rowland-White says she has had both formal and informal mentors who were willing to share their time and knowledge with her. Now she is responsible for 320 direct reports and manages provider service operations for the call center.

Learning from motherhood "People reporting to me face the same challenges I do,” Rowland-White says.  "Compassion and kindness isn't restricted to people with certain titles. That culture has strengthened my loyalty and commitment to the company."

Support from the boss "[My boss] tells me when I'm with my family, to be there 100 percent,” says Rowland-White. “When I'm on vacation, she encourages me not to check my Blackberry or to attend meetings by phone. I'm proud to work for a company that cultivates and values its working mothers and women leaders."