When Mary Rodriguez heard her daughter, Stephanie Moreno, was looking for a job change in the summer of 2021, she had an easy suggestion: KBS, where she had enjoyed working for more than two years. Little did Mary realize that they would soon be working side by side in the same office, testing their relationship initially, but ultimately bringing them closer than ever.
“It wasn't easy at first to work together because I had to teach her that at work, we’re co-workers – and to this day we have balanced that part very well,” says Mary, who works with Stephanie at an administrative office near a major manufacturing plant in South Carolina.
Team Effort – Mary Rodriguez (left) and Stephanie Moreno (right) pose at a museum in South Carolina. Working with Mom
From that initial conversation with her mom in 2021, Stephanie applied for and got a part-time job as a janitorial crew member at a manufacturing plant. The extra cash helped pay for school supplies at Clemson University, where she is a junior with dual majors in Japanese and Economics.
Stephanie liked her job in janitorial services but changed positions when a part-time role for an administrative assistant opened in Mary’s office in May 2022. Stephanie, already familiar with KBS operations, applied for and got the job. She now works alongside her mom in managing operations at the plant and other client sites, including training new staff and aiding in recruitment.
“I have a lot of respect for the people who make up our janitorial crew teams, and I want to do what I can to help them,” she says. “It’s not an easy job, and it’s an important job.”
Dedication and Leadership
This dedication and teamwork haven’t gone unnoticed. Under the guidance of mentors like Zone Manager Terrill Fuller, Site Manager Santo Wade, and, of course, Mary herself, Stephanie has excelled in her role.
“Stephanie's dedication and Mary's exceptional leadership have not only fueled their individual successes but have also exemplified the true spirit of teamwork at KBS,” says Santo Wade, who is both Mary and Stephanie’s supervisor. “Their combined efforts serve as an example of how hard work, determination, and family support can propel individuals to achieve their goals.”
“Stephanie knows what her goals are and she’s very focused on her future,” adds Mary, who started with KBS as a site supervisor before moving into an administrative position. “She’s grown as a professional, and I’m so proud of her.”
Despite the demands of being a full-time student and holding leadership positions in extracurricular activities, Stephanie has continued to work part-time at KBS, recognizing the financial support it provides and the professional experience it offers.
“One thing my parents have ingrained in me is to have a good work ethic,” she adds. “I’ve been a full-time student and working part-time since high school. It’s not a necessity, but it is something I see as me giving back to my parents.”
Aiming for Academic Success – Pictured is Stephanie Moreno, a junior at Clemson University who is majoring in Japanese and International Business with a minor in music. Looking Ahead
Though Stephanie will be stepping away from KBS soon as she completes a summer internship at a large financial institution, along with studying abroad in Japan in the fall semester, she credits KBS for providing her with valuable insights into the corporate world and fostering her passion for connecting with people.
Meanwhile, Mary looks forward to continuing her own journey at KBS. She notes that Stephanie isn’t her first child she’s worked with – and maybe not her last. Mary’s older son also worked as a janitorial crew member during the recent pandemic and has since gone on to be an architect. Stephanie notes that her younger brother, a high school freshman, teases that he eventually wants to take over her role and keep the family tradition going.
“I am forever grateful for the mentorship I received while working for KBS and for the opportunity to work in order to support myself financially in areas my parents are unable to,” Stephanie says. “I am thankful this company has watched me grow and has continued to support me through this journey.”
Join Our Team
At KBS, we believe in nurturing talent and fostering a supportive work environment. If you're looking for a place where dedication and teamwork are valued and where you can grow both personally and professionally, consider joining our team. Explore our current job openings and start your journey with KBS today.