Talk to us about your professional background before Steele. What kind of career did you lead? I was the Director of an after-school learning center, the Director of Training for a large healthcare IT company, and the Digital Director/Associate Pastor at our church.
When and how did you get involved with Steele Benefits? I met Wes through a friend. When I talked to the team, they were passionate about serving our clients, and they would talk about clients by name, not just in general. I was impressed with the company culture and its potential to continue to grow its impact.
What does a typical workday for you look like? Since I’m relatively new, I’m learning a lot. We just finished Open Enrollment for the majority of our clients. I’m working on tasks and multiple levels of testing to make sure customers have a high-quality and timely experience with Steele. Everyone has been great about supporting me as I ramp up. Now, I’m working on ACA reporting and a project to continue to help us enhance our customer’s experience.
Do you have a favorite Steele memory? So far, just meeting everyone in person. I’m so new that I haven’t been to a lot of the events.
Outside of work, what kind of hobbies do you have? I’m still active in serving at our church. I coach club soccer. My favorite activities are my kid’s activities in this season of life.
What posters were on your childhood bedroom wall? Detroit Pistons, Red Wings, and University of Michigan. I grew up near Detroit then went to U of M in Ann Arbor. My 1st job took me to Chicago for 13 years. We moved to Indiana 11 years ago to be closer to my wife’s family and because Indiana is a great place to raise a family.
What is the snack food you can’t resist? Gummy Bears, but really any snack.
What’s a pet peeve? When people don’t use their turn signals.
What’s something your child has taught you to do? Keeping your joy in all circumstances and being quick to ask for forgiveness.
What’s a bad habit you wish you could break? Night snacking.
What’s the most rebellious thing you did as a teenager? Saying I spent the night at a friend’s house when I was really at a party.
Have you met anyone famous? I met the Prime Minister of Australia when I studied abroad in college.
What advice would you give to yourself at age 15? Listen to your mom. She was right. Read the Bible for yourself.
What is the scariest thing you’ve done? Bungee jumping. Asking my wife’s dad for permission to marry his daughter, even though he was a nice guy.
What is your favorite movie and why? Finding Forrester. It has basketball, Sean Connery, smart dialogue, and a positive message.
What would you sing at Karaoke night? Nothing, I don’t like to sing in public. My kids would tell me to stop singing in the car when they were little.
What part of the driver’s test are you most likely to fail? The obscure signs.
What’s the silliest way you’ve ever gotten an injury? Wearing shorts and sliding into second base while playing softball.