Posted on 11st August, 2023 by EPTAC
Welcome to our third "EPTAC Team Spotlight" feature where we're thrilled to introduce Elaina Thomas, Customer and Training Support Specialist, who transitioned from retirement into a dynamic role at EPTAC during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Elaina's tale of resilience, adaptation, and personal growth highlights the supportive and flexible nature of EPTAC, a workplace that's more than just about tasks and targets. Read on to discover how her journey has shaped her role and personal development at EPTAC, turning challenges into unique opportunities for growth.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you became part of the EPTAC team?
I have worked in an office setting my entire life. I had recently retired from my position as an administrative assistant at a hospital in Louisville, KY. It was 2020, as we were moving to Texas. The COVID pandemic was in full swing. EPTAC, where my husband worked, had adapted several of their classes for online instruction via a virtual classroom. My husband was asked if I was planning to work after we settled in Texas. He thought I might be interested and mentioned the possibility of me working part-time for EPTAC. Consequently, I was interviewed via Zoom, and they offered me the position I currently hold. I accepted this part-time role, which quickly transitioned into a full-time position.
What challenges have you faced in your role, and how did you overcome them?
The biggest challenge was the inability to receive training at the headquarters when I first started; however, I adapted quite well. We leveraged all-day Zoom sessions with my trainer daily to address any help or questions I had. This approach effectively created a virtual office within the actual office.
Can you share an example of a time when you had to step out of your comfort zone to accomplish a task or goal?
I can't recall a time when I had to step out of my comfort zone, but answering the phones for the first time was somewhat intimidating. The callers were often well-informed about the classes, which was challenging for me initially. My strategy was to admit if I didn't know the answer, inform the caller that I was new, and then transfer them to someone who could help. Afterwards, I would ask the colleague who had handled the call how they answered the question(s) so I could be better prepared for the next time.
How do you approach teamwork and collaboration within the company?
My colleagues make teamwork and collaboration on new ideas and task streamlining effortless. We genuinely function as a cohesive unit, from the initial marketing contact to ensuring the individual has downloaded their certification after successfully passing their exams.
My colleagues make teamwork and collaboration on new ideas and task streamlining effortless. We genuinely function as a cohesive unit, from the initial marketing contact to ensuring the individual has downloaded their certification after successfully passing their exams.
Are there any specific skills or areas of expertise that you have developed during your time here?
Troubleshooting requires critical thinking skills, and I've had ample opportunity to hone mine in this role with the company. I'm truly grateful for this, as one can never have too many of such skills.
Troubleshooting requires critical thinking skills, and I've had ample opportunity to hone mine in this role with the company.
Can you describe a time when you received recognition or praise for your work within the company?
I must say, this company genuinely appreciates its employees when they perform well. The most memorable recognition I received was when the previous owner expressed his wish to clone me. I was utterly taken aback. Coming from the owner himself and given that I hadn't been with the company for long, this compliment was truly significant.
I must say, this company genuinely appreciates its employees when they perform well.
How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance while pursuing success in your role?
Maintaining a balance can be challenging at times since I work from a home office. When I know tasks are pending, I might revisit my office to complete a task or two. To ensure a healthy work-life balance, I make plans with my family and avoid passing by my office so as not to be distracted by pending work. Thankfully, my grandkids are also there to help keep my time pleasantly occupied.
What attracted you to work at EPTAC?
The flexibility of working from home, coupled with the fact that I had already met those I would eventually be working with through my husband, a Master Instructor at EPTAC, was what drew me in.
The flexibility of working from home, coupled with the fact that I had already met those I would eventually be working with through my husband, a Master Instructor at EPTAC, was what drew me in.
How would you describe your overall experience working with EPTAC, and what aspects of the company's approach to both clients and the team do you appreciate the most?
My overall experience is that they treat me like family. Some team members have never met me, as I am in Texas, and they are in New Hampshire. I rarely visit the office, so there are newer hires I haven't met. Despite this, we maintain a good relationship. As for our clients, we strive to exceed their training expectations. Even in my role, clients often call me directly for assistance, and I'm pleased that we, as a company, have established such a rapport with our clients.
As for our clients, we strive to exceed their training expectations. Even in my role, clients often call me directly for assistance, and I'm pleased that we, as a company, have established such a rapport with our clients.
Can you share a memorable teaching moment or success story from your time at EPTAC?
Many of our online testing days are instructional moments and, more often than not, they translate into success stories for me. Whenever I can assist in troubleshooting an issue for someone and they are subsequently able to take and pass their exams, I consider it a success each time.
Whenever I can assist in troubleshooting an issue for someone and they are subsequently able to take and pass their exams, I consider it a success each time.
In your opinion, what sets EPTAC apart from other courses and training providers, and how has your experience at EPTAC influenced your personal growth and development?
The personal service and excellence demonstrated by our office staff and instructors are what set us apart. Working independently from the day I was hired has taught me self-reliance. While they are there for me whenever I need them, the bottom line is that I must rely on my own skills and abilities to accomplish my daily tasks. This experience has exponentially increased my confidence.
The personal service and excellence demonstrated by our office staff and instructors are what set us apart.
EPTAC is an internationally recognized leader in solder training and IPC certification, providing professionals with the skills to accelerate their careers and businesses and the talent to succeed. For over 35 years, EPTAC has been helping corporations increase quality standards, improve productivity, and maximize profits. With 24 locations in North America, EPTAC continues to expand its offerings and exceptional instructional staff to provide easy access to knowledge and skill-based programs when and where the industry demands it. Access our scheduled programs through our website or schedule your own corporate on-site training. For more information, call 800.643.7822 or contact us.
