Spring brings with it a changing-of-the-guard sense of renewal. This experience is everywhere, from the out-with-the-old decluttering of spring cleaning to Sprouting plants in the garden and, for sports fans, annual hallmarks like baseball’s opening day.
These are all tied together by the anticipation that comes with the blank slate. It’s a buoyant, world-is-your-oyster optimism that can also be experienced when starting a new role.
Sam Elizondo had this experience recently, and is still reaping its benefits. She became VP of claims operations at Pie Insurance less than half a year ago, and has already grown professionally.
“I’ve been able to strengthen my skill sets from an end-to-end perspective of vision to execution, while also focusing on cultivating talent and relationships across the organization,” Elizondo said.
As companies have been setting up shop with new locations in the Centennial State, talent is following close behind. Pie Insurance and Uplight Software are just a few companies hiring locally this month. Hear what makes these organizations notable from the team members themselves.
Uplight leverages software to help inform decarbonization-friendly energy choices.
Think back to your early days on the job. What surprised you or stood out to you most about your company’s culture?
When I first joined Uplight, what stood out to me the most was the amazing culture of support and collaboration that existed among the team. I was pleasantly surprised to see that there was no culture of blame or finger-pointing, and everyone was focused on working together toward a common goal.
People showed up every day with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn and grow together. I was amazed by how open and respectful everyone was toward each other’s ideas and how quickly we were able to adapt to changes and overcome challenges as a team.
One of the things I appreciated the most was the freedom to share my ideas and take ownership of projects. I felt empowered to run with my ideas, knowing that I had the support and guidance of my colleagues if needed. Even if things didn’t go according to plan, we were able to learn from our mistakes and adjust our approach quickly.
Overall, I was really impressed by how supportive and respectful everyone was toward one another. It made me feel like I was part of a team that truly cared about each other’s success, and that we were all in it together. It’s something that I continue to value and appreciate to this day.
I felt empowered to run with my ideas, knowing that I had the support and guidance of my colleagues if needed.”
How long have you been with the company, and what professional growth or development have you seen in that time?
I have been with Uplight since it was formed in 2019. I started off as a project manager during the company’s early stages. As Uplight grew and evolved, so did my role within the organization. As the company expanded, there was a need for a program manager in the implementation department. I worked closely with my manager to create a new role that suited my skill set and allowed me to take on more responsibilities. This was an amazing opportunity for me to take on new challenges and expand my skill set in a way that was both challenging and rewarding.
After serving as a program manager, I then took on the role of people manager in the implementation department. This was another great opportunity for me to grow and develop as a professional, and I’m grateful for the support and guidance I received throughout this process. It’s truly fulfilling to be in a position where I can empower others and assist them in their professional growth.
What sets Uplight apart is its commitment to empowering employees to follow their passions and support their professional growth. Overall, I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to grow and develop as a professional at Uplight.
Pie Insurance helps connect small business owners across industries like construction, manufacturing, retail and many more with small business insurance. Last year, the company announced a $315 million Series D.
Think back to your early days on the job. What surprised you or stood out to you most about your company’s culture?
What stood out to me the most was how Pie really lived up to the vision and culture that it’s known for in the industry. During the interview process, everyone I interacted with spoke to Pie’s transparent, supportive and team-based culture, and they couldn’t have been more spot on. From the first day, I’ve enjoyed being in an environment where we’re all striving for the same goal of making everything “as easy as pie” both for our customers but also for our team members.
What stood out to me the most was how Pie really lived up to the vision and culture that it’s known for in the industry.”
How long have you been with the company, and what professional growth or development have you seen in that time?
I’ve been with Pie for a little over four months. During that time, I’ve had the opportunity to create a vision for the claims operations department and strategize alongside peers who are genuinely interested in not only the success of their slice of the pie, but the success of the whole pie. I’ve been able to strengthen my skill sets from an end-to-end perspective of vision to execution, while also focusing on cultivating talent and relationships across the organization.
