Education: Bachelor of Science, Arkansas State University

What does a typical day look like for you as a meeting coordinator?

As a meeting coordinator, I am in and out of conference rooms, kitchens, offices and hallways. I'm kind of a fly on the wall watching the co-op run in its day-to-day. What truly sets the co-op apart is the collaborative eagerness of every individual. The co-op is constantly buzzing, and it's not just the power of electricity.

What do you love about being in the middle of all that energy?

It's never a dull moment. Every day is something a little different. It seems like we never run out of new faces for me to meet.

What's one meeting or event you've helped coordinate that made you realize you're a good fit for the role?

I especially enjoy the holiday theme meetings because we get a chance to really have fun with the food and décor.

What other hobbies do you have outside of work?

I spend all my free time volunteering, doing what I call “life side-quests" such as skydiving or getting my spearfishing license, and being active outdoors!

How does your passion for volunteering and “side quests" influence the way you show up at work?

The most important lesson I've learned from both working with the public and taking on new challenges in my personal life has been to not take myself or anything too seriously. Often, things aren't as serious as we make them out to be, and we tend to spend so much time worrying and stressing about the small things, making it hard to enjoy the moment for what it is. I often try to remind myself how lucky we are to do the mundane.

What does it mean to you to grow in a workplace that feels like home?

I get to grow in my career and grow as an individual alongside others who are in the same career stage and those who have surpassed me. I love being surrounded by diversity and trying to immerse myself in the knowledge of those who are in the further career stages.

What advice would you give to other young professionals stepping into a fast-paced co-op career?

Welcome aboard and buckle up because there's no telling where to co-op could take you! Be open to change and you'll surely find your path. 

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