Through these stories, we aim to inspire and support others on their career journeys, showcasing the diverse paths that can lead to success within our organization. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, we hope these stories resonate with you and provide valuable guidance as you navigate your own journey.

We are excited to feature Kristie Dunson. Kristie started her journey with Stanek Windows in 1997! Over time, she transitioned to the Great Day IT Team, where her knowledge of manufacturing and the network she has built through the years have both been instrumental in her accomplishments.

Can you start by sharing a bit about your background and how you initially joined the company? 

I started my Great Day journey at Stanek Windows in 1997 as a general office assistant for the manufacturing department. I was a 19-year-old college student looking for a position that would allow me to get some exposure to the business world while I continued taking classes at night. At the time, Stanek was a small family-owned company still being run by members of the Stanek family. 

What motivated you to pursue a career within the company? 

Within six months of joining the company, I realized that I really loved manufacturing. I had never worked in a factory before and had a lot to learn, but the staff at Stanek, both in the office and on the shop floor, were incredibly patient in teaching me about the physical aspects of manufacturing glass units and windows, as well as the software that supported the process. By the end of my first year, I knew this was a company where I could build a long-term career as long as I was willing to put in the work and effort. 

Can you share a pivotal moment or project that played a significant role in your early career development? 

In 2000, the Stanek family sold the business to an investment group, which brought about several changes, including a shift in the company’s leadership. With this new leadership came new opportunities for many employees, myself included.  I began asking for more responsibilities and doing my best to exceed expectations on every project that came my way. My commitment was recognized, leading to my first promotion to Production Controller. The pride I felt at that accomplishment was satisfying because I knew I had earned it through hard work and dedication. 

How did you navigate challenges during your early career, and what did you employ to overcome them? 

One of the most significant challenges early in my career was not fitting the stereotypical mold of a manufacturing employee. I was a young female, and both were rare traits in factory-based work then. I often had a hard time being taken seriously by seasoned office and plant employees when I asked questions outside my job functions. I quickly learned that the best way to understand a manufacturing process or function was to do the work. I spent hours on the plant floor, talking to employees and working alongside them in their work cells until I fully understood their roles in the process. By doing this, I earned the respect of my co-workers and supervisors by “walking the walk.” This provided a valuable tenet that I relied upon during my entire career in manufacturing: If you want to understand how anything works in a plant, you talk to the plant. While management always has a working idea of how the plant functions, those on the shop floor daily can provide the best insights when solving a problem or creating a new process! 

As you progressed in your career, were there specific skills you worked on to enhance your professional profile? 

Stanek implemented the Fenevision software system to run manufacturing in 2006.  Because we were a small company and did not have an IT support team, much of the setup and configuration of the software became my responsibility, which left me with a firm foundation of how the system operated. When Stanek was acquired by Great Day in 2013, I went from being a team of one to a member of a much larger Customer Service team that supported the plant. This was a turning point for me, as I now had the support of a team to handle the daily tasks, which gave me more time to focus on system maintenance and configuration that aligned with how we ran our plant. Since Patio Enclosures also used the Fenevision platform, I was able to leverage my years of experience working with their systems when I joined GDI. 

Tell us about the transition from your initial role to your new position in a different department. How did you identify this opportunity, and what steps did you take to make the move successfully? 

In April 2024, while working as a Manufacturing Data Analyst, I came across a position that caught my interest on our company website. I clicked on the “We’re Growing” link at the bottom of an internal email and discovered an opening for a Product Owner in the Information Technology field. By this point, I had been working closely with the IT team for several years, handling all aspects of Manufacturing Systems. This included overseeing new software launches, upgrading existing systems, and troubleshooting any software-related issues in the plant. After speaking to HR and the hiring manager to fully understand the role, I threw my hat in the ring without high expectations that I would get the position. I spoke with the Manufacturing Division President, who was my manager then, and received his support to pursue the opportunity. After several interviews, I was offered the role. Both departments worked with me to ensure a smooth transition, allowing me several months to hand off my current responsibilities, document processes, meet the new team, and begin learning the new role. In June, I officially transferred departments. I still hear from my manufacturing “family” when something unusual arises where I can offer help, and I remain in touch with many of them, as I consider them dear friends. 

Were there specific mentors or role models who played a significant role in your career advancement? How did they influence your professional development? 

First and foremost, I want to acknowledge Linda Benjamin. When I started with Great Day, she encouraged me to explore our systems and introduce new ideas and processes to improve the business. This support was instrumental in helping me develop my skills in creating software to support the plant. Having a manager who provided that level of freedom allowed me to grow professionally and find my voice when presenting my ideas to a larger group. 

My list would be incomplete without mentioning Matt Moir. His management style continues to guide my interactions with others. He truly exemplifies what it means to be a great leader, and his determination to achieve excellence inspires everyone who works with him. Matt taught me how to encourage a team to strive for goals and how to demand greatness without ever diminishing people. Although my transition out of manufacturing created a gap in his team’s lineup, he was incredibly supportive of my decision to move to IT, recognizing that it was the best step for my career. Matt tirelessly advocates for those on his team and demonstrates the leadership qualities I aspire to embody. 

Looking ahead, what are your future career goals, and how do you plan to continue your professional development within the company? 

Though I may always be a manufacturing girl at heart, I am enjoying my role in the IT world.  I would love to continue my growth here by getting involved in other projects across the enterprise, both to learn more about the businesses I have yet to interact with and to lend support to the larger team as we continue to develop products that will be used in a cross-brand capacity. 

Any advice for colleagues or individuals aspiring to advance their careers within the organization? 

There are so many paths to career advancement at Great Day; you just need to be willing to put in the work! Master your current role, but ask for additional responsibilities and master those, too. Ask your manager or supervisor where you need to improve, and then work on developing those skills. Once you reach excellence in your current role, check the website out!  With almost 300 locations nationwide, we will likely have something in your area. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something new or different from your current position. 

The post My Great Day Story — Featuring Kristie Dunson appeared first on Great Day Career.

Through these stories, we aim to inspire and support others on their career journeys, showcasing the diverse paths that can lead to success within our organization. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, we hope these stories resonate with you and provide valuable guidance as you navigate your own journey.

We’re excited to feature Mike Schember. Mike joined Great Day Improvements in 2019 as a Design Consultant after serving in the Navy and building a career in the Automotive Industry. Drawn to our people-first values, he quickly stood out for his leadership and mentorship. Today, as Regional Manager of the South Atlantic and Southeast regions, Mike continues to lead with purpose, helping teams grow and succeed through integrity, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Could you tell us about your background and how you joined the company? 
After serving in the Navy as an Air Traffic Controller for six years, I spent eight years in the Automotive Industry, gradually rising to the position of General Manager. While I enjoyed the fast-paced environment and working with clients, I wanted to make a bigger impact. With the birth of my son, I sought a career offering schedule flexibility and stability. In 2019, I came across a job ad for a Design Consultant at Patio Enclosures’ new branch in Erie, PA. Arnold Imes, the recruiting manager, called me soon after, and our conversation convinced me that this was the opportunity I was looking for. The following week, I began training at the Macedonia office. 
 
What motivated you to pursue a career within the company? 
From the outset, I was drawn to the company’s values, which resonated with my own. The emphasis on integrity, collaboration, and prioritizing people created a positive work environment that I knew I wanted to be a part of long-term. 
 
Can you share a pivotal moment or project that significantly impacted your early career development? 
Transitioning from focusing solely on my personal success to training and mentoring other Design Consultants was a turning point for me. Helping others succeed and realizing their potential became more fulfilling than individual achievements. This shift in focus allowed me to grow personally and professionally. 
 
How did you navigate challenges during your early career, and what strategies did you employ to overcome them? 
One of my early challenges was running effective sales meetings, especially when some team members attended virtually. To address this, I began jotting down common questions from the team during the week and turned them into meeting topics. Sharing the agenda beforehand encouraged participation, and I focused on improving my public speaking skills by listening to others and refining my pitch, pace, and tonality. 
 
As you progressed in your career, were there specific skills that you focused on to enhance your professional profile? 
I dedicated time to developing leadership and motivational skills, often investing in certificate programs, reading books, and attending summits. I learned from both formal training and the experiences of those I led, fostering a culture of continuous learning and flexibility within the team. 
 
Tell us about transitioning to your new role in a different department. How did you identify this opportunity, and what steps did you take to make the move successfully? 
Transitioning from a Design Consultant to a Regional Manager for the South Atlantic and Southeast regions involved recognizing gaps in support and seizing the opportunity to fill them. With support from my GM, I focused on providing valuable assistance to my team and collaborating closely with other departments. This experience prepared me to manage both sales and operations in my current role. 
 
Were there mentors or role models who significantly influenced your career advancement? 
Numerous individuals within the company have been instrumental in my growth, including Jim, Jason Snyder, Vic and Joe Perri, Rachel Pugh, Ken Mika, Mike Christian, Mike Moore, Ron DeGraw, Drew Weinfurtner, Ed Weinfurtner, and Michael Hoy. Each provided valuable guidance and contributed to my development in various ways. 
 
Looking ahead, what are your future career goals, and how do you plan to continue your professional development within the company? 
I aim to continue impacting teams and individuals positively, focusing on enhancing efficiency within my current regions. Eventually, I hope to transition into a role where I can develop leaders and share my knowledge. Mastering my current position remains my priority as I prepare for future opportunities. 
 
Any advice for colleagues or individuals aspiring to advance their careers within the organization? 
Focus on mastering your current role, as every position within the company is crucial. Seek opportunities for growth and express interest in other departments through shadowing and volunteering. Invest in your development and remain persistent; internal promotion is common within the organization, so seize opportunities when they arise. 

The post My Great Day Story — Featuring Mike Schember appeared first on Great Day Career.

Through these stories, we aim to inspire and support others on their career journeys, showcasing the diverse paths that can lead to success within our organization. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, we hope these stories resonate with you and provide valuable guidance as you navigate your own journey.

This month, we are excited to feature Amanda Opara. Amanda started her journey with Leafguard in 2006! Her dedication and openness to learning something new are a shining example of our Great Day mentality.

Can you start by sharing a bit about your background and how you initially joined the company? 

In 2006, I joined a Leafguard franchise as a temporary scheduler. Before that, I had been teaching abroad and working toward a different career path entirely. I took on the temporary position while pursuing my master’s degree. 

What motivated you to pursue a career within the company? 

I started in the service department, scheduling warranty services for customers. Having worked for companies in the past that didn’t honor their warranties, I was impressed by Leafguard’s process and dedication to its customers. As I advanced, I had a manager who took an interest in my career and promoted me to a management role, allowing me to broaden my experience and deepen my understanding of the business. 

Can you share a pivotal moment or project that played a significant role in your early career development? 

When I joined the corporate team, I was excited to get in on the “ground floor,” so to speak.  It was my first time running a branch on my own, and I quickly learned the importance of following the established process. The branch hadn’t made a profit since the company took over a year earlier, but I posted 20% in my first month by sticking to the process. This success energized me and reinforced my belief that relocating across the country for this role was the right decision. 

How did you navigate challenges during your early career, and what did you employ to overcome them? 

When I launched my first new branch, I had to learn how to manage multiple aspects simultaneously—hiring, generating leads, sales, production, training, and more. This experience taught me the importance of prioritization. As one area would start to slip, I couldn’t lose focus on the others. It was during this time that I realized the value of a strong team and understood that no one person can handle everything on their own. 

As you progressed in your career, were there specific skills that you worked on to enhance your professional profile? 

Since I didn’t have a business background, I initially learned everything on the job. To build a stronger foundation, I earned my MBA in 2018 while continuing to work full-time with Leafguard. More recently, I’ve been studying project management in my limited free time. 

Tell us about the transition from your initial role to your new position in a different department. How did you identify this opportunity, and what steps did you take to make the move successfully? 

When I became a General Manager, I had to learn the sales side fast! While I had some prior knowledge, I now had to not only master it but also teach it to others. I dedicated as much time as possible to learning the program, using videos, one-on-one coaching, reading books on the subject, role-playing, and even running my own leads in the field. 

Were there specific mentors or role models who played a significant role in your career advancement? How did they influence your professional development? 

Yes, I’ve had various managers along the way who have taught me valuable lessons in operating and managing. More recently, one manager taught me the importance of stepping back to analyze a situation before jumping in. I had been the “firefighter” of the business for years, accustomed to working quickly. This manager helped me realize the value of getting things right rather than just doing them fast. 

Looking ahead, what are your future career goals, and how do you plan to continue your professional development within the company? 

I’m passionate about growing and developing my teams. With each new promotion, I take on more team members to mentor and tackle new challenges. I’ll continue learning from my team and the experts who paved the way. I plan to expand my skill set in operations by exploring new technologies and methods that can help make us stronger and more efficient. 

Any advice for colleagues or individuals aspiring to advance their careers within the organization? 

Be patient, learn everything you can, and don’t forget your team. There have been moments in my journey where I have felt stuck or stagnant, but I worked hard on my personal development to prepare for the next role. A few years ago, I wasn’t ready to be where I am today. It took effort for me to continue to grow. Without that commitment to my personal development, I would have given up long ago. Also, our team is our strength; no one accomplishes much on their own. You need to learn how to encourage and motivate if you want to lead. 

The post My Great Day Story — Featuring Amanda Opara appeared first on Great Day Career.

Through these stories, we aim to inspire and support others on their career journeys, showcasing the diverse paths that can lead to success within our organization. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, we hope these stories resonate with you and provide valuable guidance as you navigate your own journey.

This month, we are excited to feature Erika DeJesus. Erika started her journey with Englert at the age of seventeen! Her dedication and positivity are a shining example of our Great Day mentality.

Can you start by sharing a bit about your background and how you initially joined the company? 

My journey with Englert began in 2002 when I was just 17 years old. I was hired as a front desk receptionist while taking college classes in the evening. My boyfriend at the time, who worked in the Stamping department, helped me get an application. Growing up in Perth Amboy, working locally was convenient, and I joined to support myself financially while pursuing a career in nursing. However, I quickly fell in love with the company and the people. Being the youngest employee, I was surrounded by colleagues with incredible experience and wisdom, which helped me grow tremendously. I also embraced the mentality that “your first customers are the people you work with,” which shaped my approach to every role I’ve had since. 

What motivated you to pursue a career within the company? 

What initially started as a job to pay the bills quickly became a passion for the company and its values. I loved the people, the culture, and the opportunity to contribute across multiple departments, from A/P to Marketing and HR. Over time, Englert became more than just a workplace. It became a community that aligned with my values of collaboration, growth, and service. 

Can you share a pivotal moment or project that played a significant role in your early career development? 

One pivotal moment was returning to the Englert family in 2018 after stepping away to focus on raising my daughters. Rejoining the company as an Office Administrator with LeafGuard felt like a full-circle moment and a new chapter in my career. Seeing the company’s enduring values and family culture reaffirmed my belief in its mission and gave me hope for my professional growth. At this moment, I realized just how much I wanted to grow and contribute here. 

How did you navigate challenges during your early career, and what did you employ to overcome them? 

Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of personalities, which has taught me the importance of adaptability and maintaining a positive outlook. My strategy has always been intentionally cultivating positivity in my daily life, as I believe it’s the key to staying energized and motivated. By focusing on solutions and maintaining a constructive attitude, I’ve fostered a productive environment for myself and those around me. This approach has helped me turn challenges into opportunities for growth and build stronger connections with my colleagues. 

As you progressed in your career, were there specific skills that you worked on to enhance your professional profile? 

I’ve continually worked on refining my communication skills, both written and verbal, while also improving my proficiency in technology and office software. Additionally, I developed strong organizational skills and learned how to manage multiple priorities effectively. My passion for team building and creating a positive environment also grew, eventually leading me toward a career in Human Resources. 

Tell us about the transition from your initial role to your new position in a different department. How did you identify this opportunity, and what steps did you take to make the move successfully? 

After working as an Office Administrator, I began to see how much I enjoyed working with people on a deeper level, particularly in fostering collaboration and inclusivity. This passion led me to explore opportunities in HR. When an HR Specialist position opened up, I knew it was the right next step for me. I confidently applied, highlighting my administrative experience and my bilingual skills, which are essential in connecting with our Spanish-speaking workforce. The transition has been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to support and empower employees in meaningful ways. 

Were there specific mentors or role models who played a significant role in your career advancement? How did they influence your professional development? 

Three incredible people stand out as pivotal mentors in my career. Marianne Guerra, the HR Director at Englert during my early days, took me under her wing and showed me the ropes. She believed in my potential and encouraged me to learn and grow, which gave me a strong foundation for my journey. Amanda Opara has also been a guiding force, recognizing my abilities and giving me the freedom to explore and excel. Her unwavering belief in my potential has been instrumental in building my confidence and inspiring me to push myself further. Most recently, Dilenny Sanchez, the current HR Director at Englert, has profoundly impacted my professional development. She constantly encourages me and reinforces her belief in my potential for growth. Her support and leadership motivate me to keep striving for excellence and to embrace new opportunities with confidence. These mentors have each uniquely shaped the professional I am today, and I’m deeply grateful for their guidance and encouragement. 

Looking ahead, what are your future career goals, and how do you plan to continue your professional development within the company? 

Looking ahead, my goal is to deepen my expertise in Human Resources through additional training and certifications, further strengthening my ability to support our diverse workforce. I am committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace, with a special focus on empowering our Spanish-speaking employees. My bilingual skills and personal connection to their experiences allow me to bridge communication gaps and ensure every employee feels valued and understood. 

My passion for this work is deeply rooted in my personal journey and heritage, and I see my role as an opportunity to advocate for inclusivity and equity. By continuing to build trust and support across all levels of our workforce, I aim to help our employees thrive and contribute meaningfully to the company’s success. 

Any advice for colleagues or individuals aspiring to advance their careers within the organization? 

Be patient, open to new ideas, and willing to embrace new processes. Stay enthusiastic and committed to your growth, even when challenges arise. Remember that positivity is a practice; you need to replenish it daily to stay motivated and effective. Most importantly, build meaningful relationships with your colleagues and mentors; they are invaluable to your journey. 

The post My Great Day Story — Featuring Erika DeJesus appeared first on Great Day Career.

Through these stories, we aim to inspire and support others on their career journeys, showcasing the diverse paths that can lead to success within our organization. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, we hope these stories resonate with you and provide valuable guidance as you navigate your own journey.

We’re excited to feature Kim, whose journey at Great Day Improvements is a testament to growth, adaptability, and people-first leadership. After returning to Ohio from California, she joined Patio Enclosures and quickly took on new challenges—rising through the ranks to become Warehouse Manager. While she originally came for the opportunity, she stayed for the people. Known for her ability to recognize and develop talent, Kim leads with fairness, drive, and a deep commitment to helping others grow. Her influence continues to shape the culture and operations of our team in meaningful ways.

Can you start by sharing a bit about your background and how you initially joined the company?

I moved back to Ohio from California and was looking to make some changes. I was working for Alside when I was recruited by Patio Enclosures. I began in receiving, introduced the CV7 line, became Supervisor of the glass line, and then moved on to Warehouse Manager.

What motivated you to pursue a career within the company?

I came for the money but stayed because of the people.

Can you share a pivotal moment or project that played a significant role in your early career development?

Introducing the CV7 line at Patio Enclosures was a pivotal moment. Setting up the department and working with the new product, as well as collaborating with the team to make minor adjustments that eliminated problem reports, was very appealing to me.

How did you navigate challenges during your early career, and what strategies did you employ to overcome them?

In every area I worked, I tried to identify who had the most efficient methods of getting the job done. I would take the best practices from everyone and incorporate them into a process that worked well for me.

As you progressed in your career, were there specific skills that you worked on to enhance your professional profile?

I’ve always been good with people, but being the boss is an entirely different story. Learning to know when to be firm yet fair was crucial. What makes me proudest is recognizing talent and nurturing it to be the best it can be. Several people from my team have been promoted to supervisors, and there is no better feeling than that.

Tell us about the transition from your initial role to your new position in a different department. How did you identify this opportunity, and what steps did you take to make the move successfully?

I have worked in almost every department in Macedonia. Having the motto of being the best you can be at whatever you do has always driven me. Organizing and restructuring come naturally to me, so moving into the Warehouse Manager role was a perfect fit.

Were there specific mentors or role models who played a significant role in your career advancement? How did they influence your professional development?

There hasn’t been just one. When GDI purchased Patio Enclosures, we didn’t know what to expect. From the very beginning, I sensed something special was about to happen. Mr. Ed’s genuine concern for the employees moved me. Matt Moir’s encouragement and insights have made me a better person, not just a better employee. Nate and Dan have been reliable sources I can turn to with problems or ideas.

Looking ahead, what are your future career goals, and how do you plan to continue your professional development within the company?

I am focused on getting the “Processing Center” up and running with mapping and journals of all our products. We are going to take organizing to the next level!

Any advice for colleagues or individuals aspiring to advance their careers within the organization?

Be a sponge. You can learn something from everyone. Be kind but firm, and always be fair.

The post My Great Day Story — Featuring Kim Malachowski appeared first on Great Day Career.