My Great Day Story

Can you start by sharing a bit about your background and how you initially joined the company?

I began my career at Patio Enclosures immediately after graduating from college, marking it my first "Real Office Job." Initially, I worked as the Operations Administrator solely for Cleveland. Following the acquisition of Stanek, I seized the opportunity to assist with the transition, which introduced me to the intricacies of windows. As the company expanded by opening new branches, opportunities for growth abounded, allowing me to ascend from Lead OA to Regional OA with the support and guidance of Mike Moore and Michael Christian. Now, as a Corporate Operations Training Specialist, I've discovered much about myself and found a genuine passion for training individuals.

What motivated you to pursue a career within the company?

My father has always worked in operations, and I grew up understanding that through experience and learning, one could find fulfillment in this career path. GDI's continuous growth has presented ample opportunities for those willing to dedicate themselves and invest the necessary effort and time. The company's constant evolution and the encouragement to think "outside the box" have opened numerous doors for those ready to seize them.

Can you share a pivotal moment or project that played a significant role in your early career development?

One word: SHAREPOINT. SharePoint became a passion project for me from the beginning of my involvement with the COTS Team. I had yet to realize the significant impact writing so many processes and documented procedures in one place would have on training. My favorite aspect of training has always been witnessing the moment it "clicks" for someone, signifying their complete understanding.

How did you navigate challenges during your early career, and what did you employ to overcome them?

Initially, the construction aspect of our patio enclosure rooms posed a significant challenge due to my complete lack of experience in building. Over the past 11 years, I've discovered that starting with the basics and aligning myself with expert individuals for learning purposes serves as an excellent strategy for overcoming such challenges.

As you progressed in your career, were there specific skills that you worked on to enhance your professional profile?

Focusing on leadership skills has been a paramount aspect of my development in recent years. I've come to understand that empowerment is a personal responsibility. Fortuitously, I've had access to incredible mentors and resources, including books and podcasts, which have significantly contributed to my growth.

Tell us about the transition from your initial role to your new position in a different department. How did you identify this opportunity, and what steps did you take to make the move successfully?

The position of Regional Operations Manager initially seemed beyond my reach. However, starting as the OA in the Ohio Valley provided a solid foundation, enabling me to thoroughly understand our processes and make informed decisions for our region.

Were there specific mentors or role models who played a significant role in your career advancement? How did they influence your professional development?

Numerous individuals at Great Day have profoundly influenced my thought processes, including Mike Moore, Ken Mika, Ron DeGraw, Madison Farrell (Phillips), Mike Schember, Michael Christian, Bob Guenard, Dominic Mangino, Kaytee Hartung, and Dick Powers, among others. Their impact continues to resonate with me.

Looking ahead, what are your future career goals, and how do you plan to continue your professional development within the company?

My immediate goal is to integrate myself fully into Ohio Valley's operations and enact positive changes.

Any advice for colleagues or individuals aspiring to advance their careers within the organization?

Focus on controlling your controllables. Never allow anyone to outwork you. Tackle tasks one at a time and commit to lifelong learning.