Where did you grow up?
Manila, AR
Where did you go to school?
Manila High School and went to Arkansas Northeastern College for an Associate’s Degree.
Brag about your family.
I have been married to my high school sweetheart for three years, but we have been going strong for 13 years. We have two wonderful adopted dogs (Gatsby and Velma).
What do you do for fun?
I enjoy weightlifting and homebrewing/fermentation.
I’m currently learning to make my own hot sauces and kimchi!
What was your first job?
I started out working on the farm with my dad around age 13.
It was definitely a learning experience and taught me what an honest day’s work is.
What is your dream job?
I would love to be a professional brewer at some point. I love the art of making a beer, from recipe design to the actual brew. The joy of seeing someone try your brew and enjoy it is worth all of the work that goes into it.
What is something very few people know about you?
I am a pepper head. I love spicy foods! I actually grow my own super hot peppers(Carolina reaper and ghost)
What quote/motto do you live by?
A champion mentality isn’t about the trophies, medals, or success. It’s about having no quit.
Tell us your Optus story. When did you start, and what position? Have you moved positions/jobs?
I started at Optus in July 2019 as a Helpdesk Specialist I. In the time I’ve been here, I’ve been promoted to Helpdesk Specialist II.
What is your official job title?
Helpdesk Specialist II
What SHOULD your job title be?
Not sure how to answer this question without being too conceited.
Describe your day-to-day job.
I work with the rest of the team to assist Enterprise Rent-A-Car with their Telecom needs. Since I’m tier II, I get to do some IVR programming and phone system programming. Generally, I field calls and handle them as they roll in.
What is one thing Optus does better than any other employer you have had in the past?
This company cares about people.
The amount of time given to employees to spend away from work ensures a healthy work-life balance that every previous job has fallen short of.
Tell us about one learning or growth opportunity you have had while working at Optus.
Before this job, I had no clue what Telecom even meant. This company has given me a trove of knowledge. The one that stands out is the Avaya IP Office certification.
What do you like most about working at Optus?
I enjoy the camaraderie that exists between all employees.
It doesn’t matter if you are part of the executive team, sales, service, or any team in the warehouse; there’s always a good conversation to be had.
Have you received recognition from Optus on a job well done? If so, what was the recognition?
I have earned the service MVP award two times now!
What is your favorite part of the community Optus has cultivated?
They really give a team the space to become self-sufficient. Not everyone works well under the same conditions. I’ve really seen this company accommodate individuals and help them flourish. This, in turn, results in fantastic teams that work well together.