I joined the Stuller family back in 1991 while I was working my way through college. As do most people, I had family who worked here and always spoke highly of their job and the company. I started on the night shift in the Finishing Department.
I learned the entire finishing process from beginning to end — tumbling, prepping, polishing, sizing, and plating — there. I became a manager after five years. During my time there, we implemented new finishing cells based on the continuous flow model, meaning an entire piece was completed start to finish without leaving the department.
After working in finishing — it’s now called Traditional Manufacturing by the way — for 18 years, I transferred to the Process Improvement area. Here, we were focused on developing and implementing ways to improve efficiencies in our processes throughout the facility.
In 2011, I became the director of the Wax department, where I learned everything about wax injection, plastic injection, mold cutting, and sprueing. In 2014, we combined these departments to form Traditional Manufacturing, where I continue to serve as the director.
I love my job. It allows me to work in all of the areas I’m interested in. I learn something new every day and get to share my knowledge and passion for jewelry with others. I also love that we make pieces for people that will be cherished for a lifetime. It’s an amazing feeling when you can hand off a piece of jewelry that will make someone’s day.
And I couldn’t do what I do without the amazing support of my team. They keep me going, and we inspire one another to do the best we can for each and every customer. I’m also appreciative of the support my leadership gives me. I enjoy learning new things and they have given me every opportunity to do so. I am just one of many who work every day to keep the Stuller promise to our customers.
I don’t really have a favorite memory. There are too many to recall! I like living for each moment, knowing every ring that goes through my hands will get to a person that will be just as excited as I was when my husband proposed to me.
When I’m not at Stuller, I enjoy hunting, fishing, camping, sports, and working on projects with my mom. These things are very important to my husband and me as we strive to keep our kids grounded. We always have them with us and plan activities that help them keep in mind what values are important. And I really love working with my mom, both learning things from her and teaching her new things.
To a younger me: Always be open minded about learning something new. You never know where you’ll end up!
