Meet Emily, JK Moving and CapRelo’s Onboarding and Training Manager, who recently celebrated her fifth anniversary with the company. Emily’s journey within the organization began as an HR Assistant, a role that opened the door to her passion for talent development. Since then, she has embraced every opportunity to foster employee growth and create a positive onboarding experience.
“I started in HR, where I got to see all sides of the department, and it was through onboarding that I realized how much I cared about talent development,” Emily shares. “I love helping employees get excited about their future here and providing opportunities for growth in both their personal and professional lives.”
What drew Emily to JK Moving?
For Emily, the decision to join JK Moving was influenced by the company’s deep-rooted values and commitment to community involvement. “I first learned about the JK Community Farm before I even knew about JK Moving,” Emily recalls. “It’s amazing to work for an organization that gives back. It makes me feel like my work is part of something bigger than myself.”
Even family ties influenced her decision to join. Though her relatives no longer work for JK, their glowing reviews of the company solidified her choice to join the team. “If people leave a company and still talk about it positively, you know it’s a special place.”
A passion for growth and development
Emily’s dedication to employee development doesn’t stop at onboarding. Her vision for the future is big, and she’s determined to take talent development at JK Moving and CapRelo to the next level. “My goal is to create a branded ‘Commit to Growth University’ where employees can access various training opportunities and helps them achieve success in their careers. I want JK to be a company where employees are empowered to grow and succeed, both here and beyond. My vision is that one day, other companies will look to JK to learn how to train and develop their own employees.”
When it comes to advice for newcomers, Emily emphasizes the importance of a growth mindset. “Keep an open mind and be willing to learn. Where you start isn’t always where you end up, and patience is key in HR.”
What’s the best part of working at JK?
It’s no surprise that Emily’s favorite part about working at JK is the people and the opportunities. “The growth opportunities here are incredible,” Emily shares. “You can ask to try something new, and the response is always, ‘Why not?’ It’s amazing to work in an environment where trying new things is encouraged.”
The collaborative and team-oriented culture also stands out to her. “Everyone is so approachable and kind. It’s the people who keep me excited to come to work every day.”
Achievements inside and outside of work
Regarding her professional life, Emily is particularly proud to have earned her SHRM certification. “That was six months of dedicating my life to studying, and it was well worth it.”
On a personal note, Emily’s recent engagement and completing her first half marathon mark major milestones for her. “Running the half marathon was something I’d never imagined doing, but I’m proud of pushing myself and accomplishing that.”
Away from work
Emily has big plans, both personally and professionally. On a personal level, she’s excited to get married, buy a house, and embrace the next chapter of adulthood. “I’m excited for what’s ahead.”
When Emily isn’t helping shape the careers of her colleagues, she enjoys a slower pace at home in Arlington, Virginia. A fan of walking around the city and spending time at farmers’ markets, Emily appreciates the simple joys of city living. Her weekends are often filled with quality time spent with friends and family.
However, nothing quite competes with her love for Taylor Swift and true crime documentaries, which occupy a large space in her mind outside of work.
Words of wisdom for HR professionals
For anyone starting out in HR, Emily’s advice is clear: “Stay open-minded and be patient. HR has its ups and downs, but if you focus on continuous learning and keep a growth mindset, you’ll find success. Your starting point is rarely where you end up, so be open to the journey.”
