Welcome to our 2020 Employee Spotlight blog series! Today you'll get to know a little more about Cassie Hopkins, our Marketing Events Project Specialist.
What’s one thing that has surprised you about working here?
In all my previous job experience, my viewpoint on working with others and my career was very individual and segmented. I had worked remote quite a bit and saw work as a means to an end for life fulfillment. I was genuinely surprised when I found myself taking great pride in my work, having fun while collaborating on large projects, and wanting to spend time with my peers outside the office. I found a home here where I felt real stakes in how my performance helped the company succeed, and was truly surprised to see myself taking ownership in our story and the culture in such a short period of time.
What’s the biggest misconception people have about your position?
A lot of people see me outside the office at events, so they think a large part of my time is spent out at a conference, sponsorship event, golf course, or speaking engagement. While this is true, many people don’t see all the prep time that goes into making sure these events are executed correctly and with proper company representation. As much as I love being out talking with people about our company, I truly love being a behind-the-scenes expert more!
What’s one professional skill you’re currently working on?
Speaking of behind the scenes, one professional skill I am working on is Analytics. I love data and being able to analyze reach and insights, especially when it comes to direct correlations with our events and business development. I am currently working on understanding how to better structure our website analytics and SEO in order to reach the right people looking for our services.
If you could switch your job with anyone else within our organization, whose job would you want and why?
I would switch jobs with the one and only Craig Butler. After 30 years in the industry compared to my 2, it would be a fun Freaky Friday episode to try and gather up as much information about business operations and insurance as I could! Just when I think I learn something new, there’s even more to learn and I would love to step into Craig’s shoes to experience learning that much at a senior level (but only for a day or two—that guy is busy!)
Now, for some fun facts...
What’s a trip that changed you, and why?
The first international trip I took was to Nepal where I spent a significant amount of time in the Himalayas. I absolutely fell in love with mountainous terrain and it changed how I viewed travel. I firmly believe the best people are the most well-traveled and I’m always looking for a good hike in some altitude because of my time in Nepal.
What’s one of your favorite memories from the past year?
One of my favorite memories of the past year would be seeing the rainforest for the first time. There were so many trees, flowers, birds, and butterflies everywhere I looked, it was a total paradise. I am very thankful for the time I had to soak in as much nature as I could and truly believe it left me rejuvenated for the rest of the year.
Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
I studied ceramics and know how to make quite a few things such as mugs, plates, bowls, and vases.
What’s your favorite place to eat around here?
My favorite place to eat is probably the Longtable Beer Café in Middleton. They have a community Beyond Burger that donates $1 back to a seasonal charity and it’s usually my favorite go-to with a great beer.
What’s something you’ve done, but will never do again?
Get between a rattlesnake and its prey—that was one crazy trail run!
What’s the first concert you ever went to?
Technically, that would be Rush in the summer of 1992. I wasn’t quite born yet - my mom was about 8 months pregnant and my father insisted it would spark a musical career for me.
What’s your favorite TV show—the one you’re always watching on repeat?
If I’m looking for something funny—it’s a toss-up between Arrested Development or 30 Rock. But my favorite shows tend to be surrealist dramas such as The Leftovers or Twin Peaks.
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