A Labor Day focus on careers

Sunday, September 3, 2006

By Colette Lefebvre

Herald-Tribune

Nevada, Mo. -- What is Labor Day? The last cookout of the summer, the first official week of the school year? A holiday declared by President Grover Cleveland more than 100 years ago in a response to workers strikes, it doesn't seem to have much meaning to many. Some labor to survive, some to buy a new car or pay for school. These workers are the backbone of society, the hands that hold up the country. As of 2006, the United States Department of Labor states that the number of jobs available in English, computers, pet care and teachers who teach the math and sciences will jump by 30 percent.

This Labor Day, a salute to local workers is what is needed.

It's a well earned repose for those 9-to-9ers or 9-to-5ers who never rest. Each career fills a niche in society, each important and rewarding in its own way. Careers are far too varied to come close to mentioning all of them.

Today, the Herald-Tribune salutes workers in every field, but here's a sampling of profiles of some local folks at work.

April McDowell/ Kountry Style Salon Owner/Operator

April McDowell has just moved to a new building on Austin Boulevard, across the street from Nevada's Sonic.

Her new facility gives her much more room, which is great for her business.

"Now I am able to offer my customers more." said McDowell.

McDowell went to school in Nevada, where she studied cosmetology under John Rhodes. In order to become a hair stylist, manicurist or both, training can be achieved by studying under someone who is licensed to teach, or by a licensed cosmetology school.

She has a phone attached to her smock that she answers while she snips her clients hair and answers questions. She is on her feet much of the time, but happy.

"New people drop in everyday. I love my job, I love it. Every day is different. When I was a kid I used to do my friends' hair." said McDowell.

"If anyone goes into this business thinking that its going to be a moneymaker they are wrong. But, if you stick with it and build your clientele it will work." said McDowell.

In the beginning starting out in Metz, Mo., there would be times when all she had were two clients all day long, "but I would still stay open."

She loves what she's doing. She meets new people every day and makes new friends.

"Its not just a job to me." said McDowell.

Susan Barrett, Heritage State Bank executive vice president

Susan Barrett has been with Heritage State bank for 21 years. She began her ascent in the banking sector with her work experience at Farm and Home Savings, where she worked for 10 years.

Her first official banking job was as a teller at Bank of America. Her resume reads like a slow ascent, from her first position as a waitress to her present occupation as the executive vice president of a bank.

Barrett's job entails administrative management, and though she is a vice president, she can still fill in on the teller line.

"I had determination, that's how I achieved my goals." said Barrett. Barrett advises anyone who is interested in a career similar to hers to get a degree in finance, accounting, agricultural finance or business management.

"Its not necessary, but it helps." said Barrett.

Work ethics are important if someone wants to advance. Banking has changed in many ways, she said, and has become more automated, thanks to technology.

"Setting goals is important. Be patient and you will accomplish your goals." said Barrett.

Penny Shrimplin, Woods supermarket bakery/deli

manager

Woods deli was busy when Penny talked about her job. As she took off her gloves to shake hands, she stated that she loves her job. Penny is the deli and bakery manager at the Nevada, Mo., Woods supermarket, she has managed video stores and bowling allies.

But out of all the jobs she has had, her current career is the first one she can feel good about, she said. She orders the meats, devices, promotional ads, uniforms and other such items and schedules her 10 employees in both departments. Shrimplin walks back to her sandwiches, places her gloves on her head and prepares more food for the patrons. Her career is rewarding to her and she works a 40-hour workweek.

"I love it. It's a great place to work." said Shrimplin.

Respond to this story

Posting a comment requires free registration: