2010 40 Under Forty: Catherine Rajwani

Partner, Harbor Law Group

Company location: Northborough

Residence: Shrewsbury

Age: 37

Career highlights: The most important thing that I do is help people find solutions to their problems. My work experiences prior to joining The Harbor Law Group help me assist clients in an efficient and effective manner. My degree in chemical engineering and background in biology allow me to communicate with technology clients. Having worked as an engineer helps me understand the various business functions of my clients. Clerking for a federal judge improved my understanding of how courts function, which helps me best serve my clients’ interests in litigation. Working at a large law firm allowed me to learn from a variety of talented professionals.

Community involvement: I serve on the advisory board for the Worcester Salvation Army’s Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC). In this capacity, I advise on business and legal issues related to the thrift stores in the Worcester area, help seek donations for the stores and raise community awareness about the ARC.

Biggest success: Ironically, my biggest success and my biggest challenge professionally are one in the same. As a relatively novice attorney, I second chaired a large, multi-million dollar litigation dispute. While I appreciated the confidence that my boss had placed in me, I was nervous about the professional challenges that the litigation presented. While I was less than thrilled to second chair the case at the time, looking back, it was one of the best experiences of my career.

Mentors: My mother has been, and still is, my mentor. I followed in her footsteps becoming an engineer and a lawyer. I always turn to her for advice, whether personal or professional.

Hidden talents: I am a good cook. While my family is aware of this, I think most others would be surprised. I have a knack for making quick and healthy meals that are quite good.