SAM Employee Spotlight: Rachel Wilson
Training & Development Manager of Storage Asset Management
Rachel Wilson
Q: Can you introduce yourself and provide some background on your role within the company? What are your primary responsibilities and areas of expertise?
A: Hi, my name is Rachel Wilson. I started working at SAM in 2012 as an Assistant Store Manager. I now work on the Training Team as the Training & Development Manager. I recently started overseeing the District Manager and District Manager in Training Program to assist with the onboarding training, and ongoing development of our key leaders. Since I have been with SAM for about a decade now, I have great insight into SAM’s culture, guiding principles, and processes. I take pride in my commitment to excellence and continuously improving processes here at SAM. I enjoy collaborating with everyone on the SAM team and creating new training materials and experiences for new and existing team members.
Q: How did you come to be part of the team at SAM? What attracted you to this role and our company?
A: Before coming to SAM, I had been waitressing tables and was looking for a job that offered a good reputation and a more stable schedule and flow of income. I was attracted to SAM because it was something in a new industry that I thought I could excel at in an entry level position. I knew I’d have a lot to learn, but was eager to take my career path in a new direction. I just needed someone to give me a chance. I showed up to my interview, hair curled and dress professionally. My interviewer asked if I would be okay with cleaning bathrooms, hallways, and storage units and I excitedly replied, “Don’t let these curls fool you, I love to clean!” I still think that line landed me the job.
Q: What do you enjoy most about working at SAM? Is there a specific aspect of your job or the company culture that you find particularly rewarding?
A: I love working at SAM! I’ll probably retire here! I really enjoy the sense of opportunity that SAM has created. If you’re interested in growth opportunities and your actions show it, you can go far here. I also love that when I come to work I can be creative and have fun. I don’t feel the need to be so serious all the time. Our CEO is one of the most down to earth people you’ll ever meet, and it just feels nice knowing that you work for and with people who care about you and we’re all here for the same reason, which is to keep our customers happy. How do we keep our clients happy? We keep our tenants happy. To keep our tenants happy, we keep our people happy. It’s really that simple. We are continuously improving processes, adopting new tech and programs, and investing in committees for things like safety and culture to improve the lives of our teammates.
Q: Is there a memorable life lesson or piece of advice that has shaped your outlook or approach to life and work?
A: Don’t be afraid to speak up. If you have a suggestion to improve something, speak up. If you see a flaw in a plan or an error in a program, speak up. Want more responsibility at work? Again, speak up! Sometimes we assume that someone else will say something, so we don’t need to. I’ve learned that isn’t always the case and your thoughts and opinions are valued, so share them. I’ve also learned to value the separation of work life and home life. You don’t get time back, so use it wisely.
Q: Outside of work, what are some of your hobbies or interests that you enjoy pursuing in your free time?
A: My kids keep me busy outside of work, but I dream to start repurposing furniture again as they get a little older.
Q: Can you share a fun fact about yourself?
A: I can recite every word from the original Trolls movie with ease.
Q: Is there anything else you’d like to share about yourself?
A: I have two little ones, Braxton (2) and Bailey (1) with my fiancé, Justin. We have a Siberian husky pup named Jorah. I enjoy repurposing furniture, thrifting cool things, and spending time with my family.
Q: What is your go to Sunday cleaning/organizing song?
A: That’s a tough one, but I’ll go with Dirt On My Boots by Jon Pardi.