Get to know her a little bit.
Name: Cindy Simons
Title/Company: Operations Manager, Waukesha-Ozaukee-Washington Workforce Development, Inc.
Hometown: I was born in Mexico, raised in San Benito, Texas, but call Waukesha home.
Favorite part of your job: One of my favorite parts of my job is being able to facilitate the connection between businesses and a skilled workforce, and individuals and meaningful employment. This is what we are all about. Knowing that I play a role in advancing our economy and transforming lives is the ultimate reward.
If you could tell someone why it’s important to be involved in the community in one sentence, what would you say? When you commit your time and effort to your community, you help make it a better place for not only yourself, but also for your family, friends and generations to come.
Favorite thing about living/working in Waukesha County/southeast Wisconsin: Waukesha County has so much to offer from a variety of both commercial and local businesses, great educational systems, all the way to numerous parks and outdoor activities. It’s surrounded by beautiful lakes and you’ll find activities to do all year round. It’s a great place to work, play and live.
Favorite movie or book: There are too many good movies. I recently saw Lady Bird and loved it!
Favorite food: Does coffee count? You’ll always find me with a cup of joe.
Something unique about you: I played the French horn as a teen.
One thing you couldn’t live without: I couldn’t live without a large body of water, preferably a beach. Paddling out on the water in the early mornings takes me to a zen state of mind.
What was your first job? I was a CNA on 2nd shift at a long term care facility. I will always remember streaking Harold.
If you could do another job for just one day: Without hesitation, an astronaut! Being able to see the earth from space would be remarkable. Not to mention the possibility of being part of a team that discovers something. NASA should reconsider their height and vision requirements–I would be amazing!
Three best words to describe you: Adventurous, kindhearted and driven
In your opinion, what makes a great leader? A great leader has a vision and is a daring, focused, strategic thinker who nurtures a collaborative environment with integrity and compassion.
What drives you to succeed? I’m motivated by seeing the results of my efforts translate into satisfied customers. I enjoy the process of completing a difficult project and seeing it through the end. It leaves me with a feeling of satisfaction while allowing me to learn and grow.
What is the most pressing issue facing our area and why? While finding talent is an issue our area is facing, we also have to acknowledge that jobs are getting smarter and evolving in the sense that our labor force must be able to adapt to the demand. How do we provide the tools and skills necessary for the current labor force to succeed in the jobs of today and the future?
What is your favorite saying or word? Take a chance.
Register for our 2018 Emerging Leaders of Waukesha County awards program here.
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