In 2006, my husband Steve and I moved back to Lafayette from Baton Rouge. I saw an ad in the newspaper for a Sales Associate position here at Stuller. I eagerly submitted my application, as I always heard Stuller was a great place to work! Once hired on, I started my journey as a Sales Consultant. In 2009, I accepted a Customer Relationship Specialist position. A couple of years later (due to a family situation), it became challenging for me to attend the Bridge events scheduled after-hours, so I transferred back to the Sales Department. This provided additional experience in processing Fax and web orders, as well as orders for customers that attended our Bench workshop, Bridge events, and Trade shows.
In 2015, I had the opportunity to fill in as the temporary HR Admin receptionist. As fate would have it, this became my permanent position shortly after. As HR Admin Receptionist, I welcome guests to Stuller in addition to answering incoming calls and directing them to the requested person or department. I also assist the Human Resources Department with electronic filing and other tasks. During the busy Holiday seasons, I even lend a hand to the Sales Department, processing fax orders when necessary.
I LOVE my job! I enjoy the privilege of meeting and greeting Stuller guests. This interaction each day makes for a unique experience. I also have the opportunity to see quite a few of my Stuller friends and co-workers throughout the day – especially those who walk for exercise in our large facility. I get to hear all about their hobbies, vacations, graduations, engagements, weddings, and of course, their families!
As one of the first faces visitors see when they enter our headquarters, I do my best to provide a warm and welcoming experience for them. This is quite important in forming positive and lasting relationships that benefit both our customers and Stuller. It’s been rewarding to be a part of such a fast-growing industry. I’m always amazed at CAD/CAM’s impact on the evolution of jewelry customization; watching wax models “grow” through 3D printing is a marvel!
Outside of work, my family is special to me, so I try to spend as much time with them as I can. Steve and I have been married for 33 years. My step-son Brian and his wife Heather live in Duson, a nearby town. Brooklyn, my granddaughter (23), stays very busy working at both the Petroleum Club and Ruffino’s on the River, two upscale restaurants in the area. My grandson Cadence is your typical very active 5-year-old! I love football and baseball; I’m a huge fan of the New Orleans Saints, LSU Tigers, and the UL Ragin’ Cajuns. In fact, last spring, my husband and I had an awesome time attending the SEC baseball tournament in Hoover, Alabama!
Interestingly enough, a few months after I started at Stuller, I discovered one of my high-school friends, Laura Hulin, also works here! Then, a few years later, I met my cousin, Eugene Bramlett, here at Stuller in Mall 2, attending a Bridge event! It’s always a delight to come across a familiar, smiling face.
Katherine Walter’s words to live by: Be patient and thorough because anything worth having is worth working toward and waiting for.
Take a look at last week’s Feature Friday to read all about Mona Stott and her delivery of budgeted, quality jewelry tailored to taste!
