I always wanted to be a science teacher, but my young adult years presented some real-life challenges when financial difficulties moved me around to different jobs. I put college on hold and worked in an office setting for many years while I was busy creating a family. But after having three children, the realization that I needed a better paycheck to support my family set in, and the search for a new job started.

I soon landed a helper position at MAREK in the Acoustical Solutions department, where starting hourly wages were higher than an office job and I knew right away that this was a good fit for me. I stayed active all day, was constantly on my feet, didn’t need make-up, and could wear blue jeans to work. Opportunities at MAREK were vast and, while I didn’t want an office job at the time because I had too much energy to burn, I realized that one day the possibility of returning to an office position may align with my needs. I could see myself growing with the company and retiring there. I felt unified with MAREK right from the start, and everyone I met seemed to have an open mind, a positive attitude and were willing to help others succeed.