Kroeschell is more than just a workplace; it’s a community defined by a family-oriented, employee-centric culture. To capture what makes Kroeschell exceptional, we spoke with Kathy Santangelo, a dedicated team member whose inspiring 35-year journey with the company embodies our core values. Here, Kathy shares insights into her fulfilling career and what truly makes Kroeschell unique.
Triumphs and Challenges: Navigating Technological Change with Determination
For Kathy, the most rewarding moments at Kroeschell often stem from overcoming significant challenges, particularly those involving technological transitions. “We’ve had several new computer systems and software put in, and that’s always very challenging for me,” she explains. The implementation of the company portal during the isolation of COVID-19 stands out as a key moment of resilience. Working closely with the IT department, Kathy played a vital role in successfully rolling out the portal despite the hurdles presented by remote work.
The work didn’t end there. Shortly after, the integration of another system for employee benefits required her attention. While these complex transitions were initially daunting, Kathy found great satisfaction in seeing them through to completion. Her persistence and dedication reflect Kroeschell’s culture of continuous improvement and adaptability.
A Lifelong Passion for Kroeschell
Kathy’s 35-year tenure at Kroeschell speaks volumes about the company’s work environment. “I’ve been here 35 years, and I love it,” she shares. Her passion is fueled by the dynamic nature of her role. “Something is different every day,” she notes, emphasizing how the variety keeps her engaged and eager to come to work.
But it’s not just the work that keeps her here—it’s the people. Kathy emphasizes that the supportive management and close-knit team are central to her commitment to Kroeschell. “It’s the people here that make my job so enjoyable,” she says, underlining the strong interpersonal bonds that make every day rewarding.
Unity and Community: A Family-Oriented Culture
One of the defining features of Kroeschell is its strong, family-oriented atmosphere. “It’s a family-oriented place,” Kathy emphasizes. At Kroeschell, relationships go beyond professional connections. Kathy not only knows her colleagues well, but she’s also familiar with their families, spouses, and children. This deep level of connection fosters a sense of community and belonging that is rare in today’s corporate world.
Kathy also highlights the generational ties within the company: “Some of my children have worked here, and some of the other employees’ children have worked here.” Such bonds reflect Kroeschell’s commitment to creating a supportive, family-like environment where everyone feels valued.
A Focus on Employee Well-being: Prioritizing People
A culture of support is at the core of Kathy’s experience at Kroeschell. While she doesn’t work directly with clients, her role in supporting her team’s client interactions is crucial. This sense of support is rooted in Kroeschell’s broader, employee-first culture. “If you need time off or to take care of personal business, they let you do that,” Kathy notes. This flexibility underscores Kroeschell’s commitment to work-life balance, ensuring employees can manage their personal commitments without undue stress.
Reflections and Aspirations: A Journey of Growth
Kathy’s path to her current role at Kroeschell was less about a defined career trajectory and more about finding the right fit organically. Unlike many who have a clear career path from a young age, Kathy did not have a specific dream job in mind. “I never really figured that one out,” she admits. Yet, she found her place at Kroeschell, where she has grown and thrived over the years. Her story is a testament to the welcoming and nurturing environment that Kroeschell provides, enabling employees to explore and develop their career paths naturally.
Kathy Santangelo’s journey is a powerful illustration of what makes Kroeschell a remarkable place to work. Her experiences highlight the company’s dedication to embracing challenges, fostering a family-oriented culture, and prioritizing employee well-being. For those considering a career at Kroeschell, Kathy’s story is a compelling reminder that here, you will find not just a job, but a supportive community where you can grow and thrive.
