What were you doing before you started at Swisher Electric?

I was previously working at a cemetery. I had recently had my first child, who was 2 months at the time. My grandma called me and told me they were hiring, and that I could take my son with me! So, I said, “I'll be there tomorrow!" and then stayed for 12 years.

What was that experience like?

It was a learning experience, as there are many different responsibilities to know, but overall, it was peaceful and serene. It also gave me a good sense of identity and the skill to work by myself.

What motivated you to make the jump from working alone to joining a team?

Growing older made me become more of a people person. Making people smile and laugh just brings me a lot of joy and gives me a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

What were you most nervous about when starting this new role and how did those nerves shift over time?

I was most nervous about working with two computer screens! I wondered what type of work would need two screens! But my nerves shifted from uncertainty to acceptance that I wouldn't know everything right away. My now-supervisor told me to “give it a year," which was a good reminder to accept grace during any learning period.

What's one skill or part of the job you've especially enjoyed learning?

I love getting new members. This means I get to put together new member packets, which is currently my favorite thing to do!

Any advice for someone nervous about starting over in a new career?

Carry with you a good sense of identity. This will give you confidence to just be who you are and others around you will get to know and appreciate you genuinely.

Know someone who could be profiled? Contact Alexis Woodhouse at alexis.woodhouse@nreca.coop.