In this blog, we turn the spotlight onto Lesia Walker, our valued Director of People & Culture here at Uni-Structures! Lesia plays a crucial role in making sure all of our employees are listened to and alleviating their concerns. We caught up with Lesia to learn more about her journey, her insights into the HR role, and her advice for aspiring professionals!
Lesia’s journey with Uni-Structures began in a way that might seem crazy but perfectly shows her adaptability and determination. She shared with us, “I became employed with Uni-Structures through a staffing agency. A friend of mine, who was a recruiter, mentioned that USI needed someone to greet people, answer phones, and make FedEx labels. After being a stay-at-home mom for 20 years, I knew finding work would be challenging, but I was confident I could handle these tasks, so I accepted the position.”
Her transition from receptionist to HR was very unexpected. Lesia said, “Steve Triplett walked into my office, shut the door, and said, ‘We have decided to make you our new HR person. We believe that with your motherly nature, you would be a great fit for this position.’” Despite having no formal HR experience at the time, Lesia’s people skills and dedication stood out!
Among her most cherished memories are the company events and the valuable lessons she learned from her coworkers. Julie and Michael Barnes have been very inspiring for Lesia. She stated, “I cherish the time I spent in the back office across the hall from Julie Barnes. I learned so much about how to care for our employees through her giving and caring nature, and I know I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for her and Michael.” Lesia also fondly remembers, “One memory would be the day Jim Walker decided to do an impromptu fire drill and used me as the fire alarm. He had me run through the back offices yelling, ‘Fire! Fire! Fire! Everyone get out of the building!’ That gave everyone a great scare and a good laugh!”
Lesia’s growth in HR was marked by her commitment to learning and development, highlighted by her achievement in earning the Society for Human Resources Certification. “That is probably one of the most difficult yet rewarding accomplishments of my life,” she reflects.
Lesia’s experiences have shaped her views on workplace culture and people management. She stated, “I have witnessed USI’s culture grow over the years into one that values people. The company genuinely cares for its employees both personally and professionally. Being in the role that I am in, I have been able to witness that firsthand on so many occasions, and it makes me so proud to be a part of the culture that we have today.”
To those new to our company or aspiring to advance in their careers, Lesia offers this advice: “Never underestimate yourself. As I moved into different roles, I was admittedly a little timid each time and doubted that I would be able to do what was being asked and expected of me. This company and its leaders believe in its employees and have an uncanny ability to see potential in others that they may never know existed. That has always encouraged me and made me believe in myself.”
Lesia’s story is a testament to the incredible opportunities available here at Uni-Structures. Her journey from a receptionist to the Director of People & Culture shows how passion, perseverance, and a supportive environment can lead to amazing achievements. As we celebrate Lesia’s remarkable decade with us, let her story inspire us all to embrace growth, remain adaptable, and continually believe in our own potential.
Congratulations, Lesia, on your 10 years of exceptional service! Here’s to many more years of success and making a difference at Uni-Structures.