CONGRATULATIONS

Leadership Greater Topeka Class Of 2023

We are proud to say that Andrea is part of #TeamEnvista.

Andrea is a results focused and inspiring leader. She demonstrates integrity and empowers those around her to step into their own leadership.

Samuel Feather Partner

Goodell, Stratton, Edmonds & Palmer LLP

What is something you wish someone had told you during your career journey?

Listen more, talk less, resist the urge to have the last word, and do not underestimate the value of being kind.

What is one piece of advice that has served you well in your journey?

My very good friend and mentor, Pat Apple said “do not confuse those looking to capitalize on your professional success and influence with your friends and family. Too many successful people have learned this hard lesson when upon reaching retirement their phone does not ring, their inboxes are empty, and suddenly no one has time for lunch.”

What is your foundation?

The underlying foundation to my personal and professional life is my Christian faith.

What motivates you?

I have six little monsters at my house who affectionately call me Dad. They are in oh so many ways the driving force that motivates not only what I do, but also who I want to be.

What do you love most about your work?

I love that no one day is ever the same in my role at Bartlett & West. Whether it’s arranging travel for one of our 300+ employee owners, planning and executing various events, coordinating charitable giving requests for Topeka and surrounding communities, or working on our internal newsletter, there’s always a variety of things to do.

What piece of advice has served you well in your journey?

I was going through a difficult time in my life and a former manager/friend told me that until I could be happy being me and being on my own, I wouldn’t be good for anyone else.

What do you do for fun or to recharge?

I love to do all kinds of crafts, but I especially enjoy making wreaths and floral centerpieces.

What’s the last series you bingewatched?

“Sweet Magnolias” on Netflix

Breny Clain Wing Executive Officer 190 Air Refueling Wing

What characteristics do you value most in your coworkers?

Their commitment to our wing mission and willingness to take care of each other.

What do you love most about your work?

Being able to solve problems and improve processes in order to improve our wing and make a difference in both our state’s military and community.

What should one never take for granted?

Our freedom of choice.

What do you do for fun or to recharge?

Build new things—mostly enjoy woodworking (but still a novice).

What music artist do you never get tired of?

Jose Alfredo Jimenez

What led you to this career?

I went into nursing because I wanted to help people. Though I no longer work at the bedside, my position now allows me to have an impact on care and outcomes at systems level. I find this aspect of my work very meaningful and rewarding.

What is the secret to a good life?

For me, the not-so-secret to a good life is maintaining a focus on the things that truly matter, God and people (family/friends).

What do you do for fun or to recharge?

I love the outdoors and specifically fishing. My family also enjoys those things and thus we spend a lot of time on the lake in the summer.

What is your leadership style?

I strive to be a servant leader and work hard to remove barriers so that my teams can be successful.

Who would play you in a movie about your life?

Obviously, Ryan Reynolds, due to our striking resemblance.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned?

What you pass along to others is what will come back to you—make sure whatever you’re passing along is positive and constructive!

What is something you wish someone had told you during your career journey?

That nothing we wish to pursue is impossible! There is no hurdle or problem bigger than our own attitude toward it. I wish I knew earlier on that I could lean on myself and my capabilities to grow and learn to go beyond the doubts of myself and others.

What motivates you?

I love seeing those who I’ve encouraged to explore outside their comfort zone succeed in ways they didn’t think were possible for them.

What is non-negotiable for you?

Integrity. Being dependable and living in alignment to your strongest values—no matter what it costs.

What is your favorite app?

Audible! I love listening to a book during my commute—it’s the perfect way to start and end my day!

What led you to this career?

At 16 years old I had the opportunity to start working at the Prairie Band Casino & Resort busing tables in the buffet. At 19, I was hired as a Tribal Intern at the casino which allowed me to learn more about the business. I found myself drawn to the Human Resources department and knew that’s what I wanted to do. I built a plan on how to achieve this goal and make it a reality. After the internship, I worked in various roles while earning my bachelor’s degree. I had a lot of guidance and encouragement from the leadership at the casino. Once a position in HR opened up, I seized the opportunity.

What advice has served you well?

“Careers are a jungle gym, not a ladder.”

—Sheryl Sandberg

“Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead”

What is your foundation?

My family. My husband Matthew and my daughter Ophelia. My parents, siblings and extended family. I have always had an amazing support system in every part of my life.

Jake Holly

Foulston Siefkin LLP

What is the most valuable lesson you have

Focus on what you can control. I am a firm believer in the serenity prayer. I’ve learned that spending time worrying about things that I cannot control just creates anxiety and wastes energy. When my mind starts to drift, I always try to remind myself to focus on the things within my reach and apply myself to the fullest in those pursuits. Although, it is not always easy to be able to differentiate between what is and what is not within your control. In those instances, I’ve learned it is best to talk to someone, whether a mentor or friend, and get their take on the situation.

What are your core values?

Integrity. I always want to be honest with everyone and try to always do the right thing. I also value work ethic. It is something that requires zero talent but makes a big difference in not just the workplace, but in relationship building. Lastly, dependability—it is very important to me that I follow through with my commitments, no matter how big or how small.

If you could choose one superhuman ability, what would it be?

No doubt, it would be flying. Not only could I skip traffic, but I could see the world in the most efficient, convenient, and coolest way possible. Sign me up—I’ll happily fall into the vat of radioactive bird seed or whatever other origin story it might take.

What is one word you would use to describe yourself?

Loyal. I’m a good friend, supporter and listener, and I show up when it counts.

What do you love most about your work?

I love helping students navigate the higher education process and watching them grow. I was a first-generation college student, so I understand how difficult the processes can be.

What advice has served you well? My father always said, “If it is meant to be, it will be.”

What music do you never get tired of?

80’s hair bands—I love the 80’s!

What characteristics do you value in your coworkers?

Hard-working, reliable and helpful.

What is the most important part of your work?

Providing moral, legal and ethical training standards for safety.

Who are your mentors?

A now retired TPD employee and Mayor Mike Padilla. I admired his courage, his communication style and his relatability. He inspired me to be better at my job.

What 3 critical skills help you in your work?

Attitude, communication and an adaptive mindset.

What do you love about your work? Empowering new employees by training and teaching.

What is your leadership style?

Candor and honesty while being sensitive to others, even while taking corrective action.

What do you wish someone had told you during your career journey? To be more versatile.

What music artist do you never get tired of?

Durand Jones & The Indications

Kylie Mergen FVP, Community Investment Officer, Director of Housing and Community Development FHLBank Topeka

What is your leadership style?

I lead with love. Sometimes that looks like tough love, but love, nonetheless. I want people to be seen for who they are and encouraged into who they could be. It’s my job to see potential. It’s your job to realize and step into that potential. And as you figure out who you are on the journey, I’ll hold space for you to make mistakes and learn from them while feeling supported and valued.

What is the most important part of your work?

I believe having a safe place to live is a basic human need. I am fortunate to be part of an organization that helps make housing accessible and affordable. We want to make the greatest impact with the funds we award and to see the money granted turn in to housing opportunities that can be life changing for those who need it most.

What is something you wish someone had told you during your career journey?

It’s ok to fail. We get so caught up in our successes and striving for the next win that sometimes we hold back because of a fear of failing. I’ve found that failing sometimes leads to an even bigger opportunity. One of my favorite quotes from Maya Angelou is “It is not that I have confidence, but I believe if I fail, so what? Now I have the chance to try again.”

What would we mostly likely see you doing on a weekend?

More often than not, I’m on the sideline or stands of a game my kids are playing. If someone is being a little too loud, it’s most likely me.

Marisol Estrella Marcelo Director of Marketing and Public Relations & Preplanning Specialist

Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home

What do you love most about your work? Working in the funeral industry has given me a much deeper appreciation for life. It allows me to love harder than I could ever explain. It has shown me that not only can I overcome my battles, but how to embrace my new realities. It teaches me how to grow flowers in the darkest parts of me.

Who is your mentor?

Donna Mathena-Menke, owner of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home. She has shaped me into her little prodigy and is an empowering woman.

It has been a privilege to learn and work alongside such a compassionate and knowledgeable person. She is a second mom to me, my unpaid therapist, and she always knew I was called to serve.

What is one word you would use to describe yourself?

Intentional. I am intentional with my goals, with the people I spend time with, and with my faith. This allows me to live a life filled with purpose.

What has been your biggest Aha! moment? Understanding the things my mom said I would understand when I’m older.

Jermel Walker

Infrastructure Manager

City of Topeka

Sam Sutton Co-Owner/Pilot Fulks Helicopter Services

What led you to your career?

I grew up on a small farm north of Ft. Riley. Our house was located along the low-level route for the helicopters based there. When we heard the helicopters coming, we would run into the yard, waving frantically as they flew over. I knew at that moment I wanted to fly helicopters when I grew up. Fortunately, I had great mentors after high school who helped guide me into the military and navigate my career creating a path for my future.

What do you love most about your work?

The opportunity to travel and meet new people. My wife and I love to travel and have been to all seven continents. Likewise, my aviation career has allowed me to travel all over the U.S. and build a network of friends with similar interests.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned?

If you don’t make time for maintenance, maintenance will make time for you. This is one of the hardest lessons learned in aviation and in life. Take care of yourself both mentally and physically. Take care of your family and your equipment and it will all take care of you.

What characteristic do you most admire in others?

Humor. It’s a unique characteristic that has the ability to break down barriers and bond people. It can serve as a form of therapy. Making someone laugh can lift them from a dark place, even if it’s just temporary. So, keep laughter alive!

Coordinator and Director Omni Circle

What’s your foundation? Love.

What advice has served you well?

A homeless man shared with me, “Slow down and enjoy life.”

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned? Trust your feelings.

What characteristic do you admire in others? Discipline.

What motivates you? Making wrong right.

What do you collect? Comic books and Nightmare Before Christmas things.

What book are you reading?

“I’m Ok—You’re Okay” by Thomas A. Harris, M.D.

Who inspires you? My children.

What is one word that describe you? Human.

What do you think is the secret to a good life?

Life is good when you are a blessing to others.

What should you never take for granted?

People.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned?

That life is every changing and you must learn to adapt to those changes when they come.

What are you grateful for?

I am grateful to work for a company that has helped me provide everything that I could ever want for my family.

What motivates you?

Life itself. Every day I get a chance to get it right and help those around me.

What do you collect?

I have been flying drones since 2013.

What is your foundation? My Faith!

What is the most important part of your work?

Helping to develop and execute Envista’s strategic goals.

What characteristics do you value most in your coworkers?

Integrity, responsibility, teamwork, optimism and humor.

What advice has served you well?

Leading by example. I don’t ask anyone to do something I wouldn’t do myself. I learned this from many people who surround me both personally and professionally.

What should never take for granted?

Having a good support system at home. As a working mom of three, I would not be able to juggle what it is thrown at me most days without the support of my husband.

What do you do to recharge?

If the weather is warm, you’ll most likely catch me recharging at a pool or outdoors. I love being outside in warm weather. Key word being warm not cold.

What is your strength?

Being a connector or bridge-builder. Where I come from and what I’ve experienced over the years, I’ve often felt caught between different worlds but that allows me to see situations from multiple sides and appreciate the nuance in a given moment.

What characteristic do you admire in others?

I admire people who are good listeners and aren’t afraid to admit when they’re wrong. I think those who refuse to do that miss opportunities to reflect, learn and grow. I think great leaders listen humbly to those who offer different perspectives on life, and the best leaders lean into the wisdom that comes from diverse perspectives, in order to move communities and causes forward.

What advice has served you well in your journey?

Get comfortable being uncomfortable, because that’s where the growth happens! A friend from high school said that to me, and it’s become a motto of sorts for me. While it isn’t always easy—in fact, it usually isn’t easy—I try to intentionally step outside of my comfort zone often. You never know what might happen when you enter a new situation with optimism and an open mind.

What book are you reading now?

Just finished “Untamed” by Glennon Doyle; it was therapy in 350 pages. Next up is “Nomadland” by Jessica Bruder. I tend to gravitate toward nonfiction and memoirs because I like to draw lessons from the experiences of others and see how those relate to different aspects of my own life.

What is the biggest professional goal you have accomplished?

Becoming International President of Junior Civitan. I work to ensure that all needs of Junior Civitan members, clubs, and regions are met to better the organization overall. Junior Civitan is an amazing association that is devoted to their communities and serves those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

What do you love about your school?

My friends and the community. Once I got involved in my school through Junior Civitan, National Honor Society, cheer, and the other organizations, I loved putting

Arianna Womack High School Student Shawnee Heights High School

in the time and hard work to serve others and make a difference in their lives.

Who is your mentor?

Melissa Masoner continues to be my biggest mentor because not only has she helped me throughout my high school years, but she also helps other young people to achieve their goals.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned? The importance of self-love and confidence.

Darin Stephens Founder and CEO Stone & Story Real Estate Group

What critical skills help you in your work? In real estate you are a connector of people, communicator and problem solver to all parties of the transaction. Balancing these skills allows you to guide clients to achieve their desired real estate goals.

What did you learn from the pandemic?

It’s a constant reminder how precious life is. It was incredible how the world came together during this time to make a difference during adversity.

What motivates you?

Being able to have a positive impact on a person’s journey, whether that is a client or team member. I function as a servant leader, and I look to serve the greater good. It drives me every day to make a difference.

What should one never take for granted?

Your ability to have a voice and make a difference. One can’t forget what a positive impact you can have on the lives of others.

What is one word that describes you?

Caring. This word encompasses how I function with clients, my employees, friends and family members. I work hard every day to ensure those around me have what they need and desire.

Tyler Levier Chief Operating Officer Prairie Band LLC

Who is your greatest inspiration?

My grandfather. His work ethic, integrity, and honesty were unparalleled. He had an 8th grade education, fought in two wars, and worked with his hands every day to provide a solid foundation for his family to thrive. I am a direct result of his efforts and I carry the lessons he taught me every day.

What is your strength?

Solving problems. My father taught me how things work and, to the contrary, if something was broken, we fixed it. Then, we needed to understand why it broke—and that lesson was the greatest gift. Growing up, I thought I would grow up to be a mechanic. Understanding how the individual pieces of something larger interact with one another to accomplish a task is universal and I maintain that mindset in all of my endeavors.

What do you love about your work?

The inspirational people I am fortunate enough to work beside make coming through the door an everyday pleasure. Seeing the company and team grow while knowing that the efforts put forth each day making a genuine contribution to progress is extremely rewarding.

What is one word you would use to describe yourself?

Happy. I face everything with a heartfelt

What should never be taken for granted?

Being able to wake up and breath every morning.

What is your foundation?

Being genuine.

What do you love about your work?

I truly enjoy working and interacting with people. I feel a great sense of accomplishment after helping and building relationships with my clients.

What do you do to recharge?

Cook, travel and spend time with family and friends.

What series have you binge-watched recently?

“Ted Lasso” and “Cobra Kai”

What led you to this career?

Strathman Sales has been in my family since my great-grandfather bought it in 1939. Growing up, it was something I always considered as a possible option. In high school, I spent a few summers working in its sign shop, warehouse, and as a delivery assistant. However, I made sure to get experience working outside of my family’s business as well. I took a few years to work retail and one in food service before deciding to come back into beer distribution. After graduating from college, I began working full time at Strathman Sales spending time working in each position to gain a more complete understanding of how this company operated.

What is the biggest professional goal you have accomplished?

Anheuser-Busch, our primary supplier, requires managers of their wholesalers to submit to an approval process. You must gain experience within every aspect of the business and be interviewed by a member of Anheuser-Busch’s senior leadership to demonstrate your knowledge and ability to run the company. For me, this was a five-year process that allowed me to familiarize myself with how each piece of this company works. After my interview and AB’s Region Vice President signed off on my approval, I felt the greatest sense of accomplishment in my professional life thus far.

What do you do to recharge?

Every day when I get home from work, I sit down at my table, turn on a comedy podcast (something mindless to not pull focus), and draw. Most of my drawing time is spent creating pages for the comic books I’m working on. This is something that I enjoy that helps me recharge, but it also brings about a sense of accomplishment. When I finish drawing a page, I feel deeply satisfied when I see my skills progress, and I’ve created something which realizes or exceeds my initial concept.

Jarrod Guth Community Engagement Manager Capper Foundation

What led you to this career?

My son was receiving services here at Capper Foundation and I saw the incredible work that they do daily. I’ve always been engaged in community efforts, and I wanted to be more involved in helping. Seeing a position that played to my strengths was the opportunity that I needed in order to be more involved.

What is one piece of advice that has served you well in your journey?

My father helped me understand perspective. While it’s not one piece of advice, it is how he lived his life. He taught me that there is never one side to the story. The dragon that was slayed by the knight saving the princess had a family as well.

What makes you unique?

Probably my sense of humor. At least others have mentioned that my love for the absurd and abstract are fairly unique. Comedy is subjective, so others may consider it unique, but with a raised eyebrow.

What are your biggest pet peeves?

The phrase “that’s how it’s always been done,” rudeness, and Steve (he knows what he did).

Jade Ramsdell Performance Improvement Director Kansas Department of Health and Environment

What is one word you would use to describe yourself?

Sincere. It’s important for me (and central to my own personal values) to communicate with honesty and civility, to “show up” as a person who others can rely on, and step outside of my comfort zone as a person committed to this lifelong process of learning more about myself.

What do you love most about your work?

The people. I am incredibly fortunate to encounter people from all walks of life. In the spaces we share, it can be very vulnerable due to the nature of the work we do in public health involving social determinants of health and disparities. It’s not unusual to hear direct storytelling from community members and/or individuals with intersecting identities share stories of their unique experiences that bring a diverse perspective to the table and to the work that we conduct on a daily basis. For me, it’s about really being present in those moments and reflecting on them to continuously improve the work we do, and for personal growth as well.

What do you think the secret to a good life is?

Authentic words and actions. I believe by doing so, even when it may be risky, or if it requires a great deal of courage, it helps to form deeper connections (with oneself, the world, and those around us).

What do you do to recharge?

I enjoy acrylic painting. I have always been intrigued by art as a path to emotion and the way art can evoke deep emotional responses.

Craig Barnes Division Manager, Community Health Outreach and Planning Shawnee County Health Department

Who is your greatest inspiration?

My biggest inspiration is and probably always has been my mother. From a young age my mother always instilled a robust work ethic and the desire to want to improve my community. She is amazing at balancing her work as a healthcare provider and volunteering time in her community. She got me started volunteering and interested in working in the health field.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned?

As a leader you need to ensure a culture of quality and excitement. Your team members should understand that your goal as a leader is to help them align their personal and professional goals to the benefit of the team and organization. If you are able to do that and you are able to ultimately empower your team to put forth their entire motivation, creativity, and passions into the overarching goal of the team and organization anything is possible. When individuals feel empowered and wholly part of a team; performance and innovation increase exponentially.

Who would play you in a movie about your life?

Josh Lucas

Karina dixon HR Manager KBS Constructors

What is non-negotiable for you? Respect. Dealing with people involves working with so many different personalities, backgrounds, and beliefs. You may not always agree with someone, but you should always have respect for them.

What is your strength? Empathy. It is a strength that helps me understand different people’s perspectives while treating them with compassion. At the same time, I am able to have tough conversations and speak up with my own point of view.

What might you be seen doing on a weekend? Baking and decorating cookies, listening to true crime podcasts, and being out and about with my husband and two boys.

If you could choose one superhuman ability, what would it be?

The ability to stop time. There never seems to be enough.

Jacqueline Belden Program Manager Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library

What do you love most about your work?

I love that I get to report every day to a job where I can combine my lifelong love of literacy and learning with my passion for public service and leadership.

What motivates you?

I am so motivated by growth and learning. I love learning something new every day in my work and in my personal life (I am a librarian, after all!), and I always seize opportunities to grow myself as a leader and as a person.

What did you learn from the pandemic?

The pandemic showed me with clarity that there is joy in “missing out” (these days I have JOMO, not FOMO!). There are no more precious moments than the ones spent reading a book on my couch while sipping a coffee and snuggling with my dog.

What are your core values? Empathy, curiosity, service, humor, growth, and learning.

What is one word you would use to describe yourself?

Free-spirited. My beliefs and outlook on life is to find adventures and different joys. I believe in the gray area in life and just take the world as is. I like this characteristic because it helps me help others, I am not judgy and can see another perspective very easily.

What superhuman ability would you want?

Best answer, ability to clone. I would be able to work, learn, and sleep all at once. Having a way of life where I could be in multiple places at once sounds nice.

What advice has served you well in your journey?

A few times throughout the day, just ask yourself what you notice. It can help ground you. Listen to what your body and brain tell you, and notice the things that you normally don’t.

What should one never take for granted?

Friends and peers.

Nicholas Jefferson Senior Litigation Attorney City of Topeka

How have you evolved and grown during your career?

By completely changing careers. I started as a civil engineer doing various aspects of design work and construction project management for two different consulting firms. After about seven years I took a leap and went to law school at Washburn University, which is how I ended up in Topeka. I have been a civil litigation attorney for the last 11 years, initially in private practice, and the last seven years for the City of Topeka. I have also had the opportunity over the last year to work part time for the City in a civil engineering capacity again, by helping with some construction project management part-time. It has been very interesting, and while I love my current job as a litigation attorney, it has been fun to flex that engineering muscle again.

What is something you wish someone had told you during your career journey?

If you find yourself consistently dreading Sunday evenings, it might be time to move on to something else. You are not doing anyone any favors by staying in a position that no longer works for you. That might mean a new job or a completely new career, but if you need to make a leap, make it. Life is too short.

What do you collect?

Musical instruments. I am up to 4 acoustic guitars, 6 electrics, 3 mandolins, 2 basses, and countless miscellaneous instruments strewn about my basement. Music is a large part of my life and has been for years.

Mindy Hardenbrook

What led you to this career?

After graduating high school, I wasn’t ready to head to college. I was working full time in retail, and some of my regular customers worked at the bank that shared the same parking lot. They encouraged me to apply for a bookkeeping position. Over 28 years later, I still love banking.

What has the pandemic taught you?

The pandemic was such an unexpected learning experience. New meaning was given to words like teamwork, flexibility, and understanding. No matter how difficult something seemed, there was always a way to get through it. Pivot, collaborate, and get creative! We were all going through something for the first time, but we were going through it together.

What advice has served you well?

Early on in my banking career, I was working for one of the first female bank presidents in Boulder, CO. She was charting new territory and always had time for me. She advised me to not get caught up in the gossip; if there’s something that you need to know it will be delivered in an appropriate way.

What’s the last series you binge-watched?

“Ted Lasso.” It makes me laugh and cry in just about every episode.

What led you to this career? Experiences where I could learn through play as a child led me down my engineering path. College was difficult for me. I did not have straight A’s. In fact, I had C’s and there were times I thought I could not complete it. I thought that I was not good enough for this career because it was not coming to me easily. Thankfully, I kept going and was successful.

While I was at college, I had the opportunity to work at a “before and after” school care program where

Caitlin Luttjohann Vice President of Play and Learning Kansas Children’s Discovery Center

I taught an engineering club. At one point, I had some 5th graders wanting to give up because they could not figure something out in our design. I encouraged them to keep going, to think through the problem, and use their resources. They succeeded. That’s when I realized I wanted all children to know they can do anything they want as long as they do not give up and try their best.

I started at the Flint Hills Discovery Center as an Education Specialist for

Science and have been in the informal education world ever since.

What do you think the secret to a good life is?

1. Be yourself.

2. Allow yourself to fail safely, learn and move on.

3. Stay curious and allow yourself to follow that curiosity even if the path isn’t the “normal” one.

What music artist do you never get tired of?

Queen

Graham Moulden Aircraft Mechanic 190th Air Refueling Wing

What is the biggest professional goal you have accomplished?

Seeing someone who enlisted grow into a professional and watching their success. In 2018, I was able to award several of my troops on a deployment in the Middle East.

What do you love most about your work?

Traveling, learning about different cultures, and trying to understand life through a different lens.

What has been your biggest Aha! moment?

Realizing everyone walks their own path, some are harder than others, but can be much more rewarding.

What is one word you would use to describe yourself?

Congenial. I can remember not being popular in my adolescence, and now realize how little that matters in the real world. I have grown so much from rallying outcasts and proposing inclusion.

What do you do for fun?

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Legos with my kids.

What is your favorite app?

Spotify. It can help me get out of a bad mood, and help elevate a good mood.

Josh Sturm Operations Manager Oak View Group - Evergy Plaza

What do you love most about your work?

Getting to help operate and manage a state-of-the-art facility in Evergy Plaza. I love that we host and produce amazing events and activities for our community to enjoy.

Engaging with lots of different people from our community that visit and enjoy the space is rewarding. The fact that when people visit my work its usually filled with smiling faces and a community making memories.

What should one never take for granted?

Opportunity. In your personal life or professional life, make the most out of the opportunities that we get because you don’t know how many more you may or may not get.

What do you collect?

I am not sure if you would consider it a collection but I have a lot of hats and shoes! I guess my only reasoning behind having so many is that I can show a little bit of my personality through them.

How have you grown during your career? Learning there is value in my voice! Leaders need to be in every department and demographic in order to be successful. Starting out, I thought I needed to be X or had to be Y in order to speak up and share my thoughts and ideas. I have come to realize some of the most influential and impactful leaders are those that come with a different perspective.

What should never be taken for granted?

Your ability to change. Don’t like your outfit? Change into something that makes you feel good. Not happy with your job? Look for a new opportunity that is a better fit for you. Feeling down? Do something to put a smile on your face—go outside, talk to a friend, pet a dog, watch a funny video.

What do you do for fun?

I coach volleyball. I love that I get to help young athletes realize their potential and help them grow both on and off the court.

What is the most important part of your work?

Making the world a better place. Innovation means we are changing for the better. A better process, a better product with better performance, all leading to a new and better way to do things.

Roberto Gonzales Owner Ad Astra Logistics, LLC Area Manager Goodyear Tire & Rubber Plant

What is the most important part of your work?

One area that I focus on extensively both as a logistics business owner and in production management is workplace safety. Keeping my teams safe has followed me from the oil fields to transportation to mass manufacturing. Completing safety audits, testing and maintaining equipment failures, and providing ongoing training and support on appropriate safety measures is always at the forefront.

What do you think the secret is to a good life?

There are no secrets, but pay attention to your values and let them be your guide. We tend to be happiest with our decisions when they align with our principles and goals. The only difference between a good life and a bad one is perspective.

What do you collect?

We own 10 horses and at this point I feel it is fair to call that a collection. I never imagined that this would be such a big part in my daily life, but I fell in love with a farm gal and apparently it is a package deal. Despite the work involved, it has been a great experience. Nothing will improve your non-verbal communication, test your patience, and develop your comfort with humility like a 1,200 pound animal—or 10 of them.

Romae Isom Shelter Manager YWCA

What characteristics do you value in your coworkers?

I work alongside beautiful individuals that are super passionate and dedicated to the mission of our organization. Sometimes the work can be a little heavy on the soul, but when I see a great team of individuals showing up for the cause EVERY DAY, I am encouraged.

What motivates you?

My husband and my five children. I try to be the best I can for them. If you give the ones closest to you the best version of yourself, you give them the room and inspiration to search for the best version of themselves.

What’s your leadership style?

I refer to it as a servant-leadership style. I believe in encouraging people and pulling out the best in other leaders.

What’s the last series you bingewatched?

“Georgia and Ginny” with my daughter (and alone *shhh*).

Renee Franklin

Pre-production Quality Control Specialist Southwest Publishing and Mailing

What do you love most about your work?

The fact that every day I make a difference. The skill set that is fundamentally who I am makes me uniquely qualified to do my job well.

What is your strength?

My adaptability. Change does not inspire fear in me, quite the opposite. When there is change there is the chance for transformation, for metamorphosis. It energizes me and creates the opportunity for regeneration.

How have you evolved and grown during your career?

During the 36+ years with this company, I have personally and professionally mellowed with age. Perspective, patience and focus have all improved so much.

What motivates you?

Being the result of the love of thousands that have come before me, my ancestors are my guides and I strive to honor them every day.

What is your favorite app? YouTube. So. Much. Information.