Casey Jankoska joined Express Employment Professionals in 2008 as the Client Relationship Manager. It is her goal to understand the needs of companies and to find specific solutions. Casey has previously served on the Board of Directors with the Association for Human Resource Management (AHRM) as President and is involved in many other community organizations. She received her PHR and SHRM-CP Certifications as she has a passion to help leaders in the Human Resource field.

Melissa Brandt joined the Express Employment Professionals team in 2021 as the Client Relationship Specialist. She values her personal and professional relationships above all else and has spent over 10 years connecting with organizations across West Michigan and beyond to assist them with their sales, marketing and recruitment efforts. 

Melissa is a graduate of Grand Valley State University with a Degree in Public Relations and Advertising and a minor in Writing. In addition to her private sector work experience, Melissa is an active volunteer in the community, having served on committees for several non-profit organizations over the years.

 

Nic Dampier understands the value of good storytelling and the impact this has on brand identity and community. As the Creative Director for Express Employment Professionals of Grand Rapids, as well as Frontline Training Solutions and the Grand Rapids, Michigan location of Specialized Recruiting Group, he is responsible for the strategic direction, vision, and branding of all marketing and communication initiatives. He has a passion for storytelling with excellence and helping brands become scalable and sustainable. Nic is a graduate of Mississippi State University with a Degree in Strategic Communication Management and is focused on developing brand strategy that cuts through the noise by following a communication filter he designed called C.R.I.C.K.E.T., which stands for brand messaging that is Clear, Relatable, Intentional, Consistent, Kinetic, Engaging, and Truthful.

Nic is also a veteran of the United States Navy, where he served as a Religious Program Specialist Petty Officer Second Class immersed in the middle east culture learning how to communicate across cultural boundaries. After the Navy, he spent a decade serving as a Creative Arts Pastor for a large multi-site church network telling stories of the church and directing the production/music experience for thousands of people in person and online. He is an accomplished destination wedding and brand filmmaker of 13 years. Most recently he was featured in the 2021 ArtPrize International Art Competition as a "must see," by local news where he won 97 individual fan-favorite awards for his entry featuring 19 stories overcoming various adversity and struggles like homelessness, alcoholism, and prison through a positive mindset, grit, and employment support. 

Kaylee Cooper joined the Express Employment Professionals team in 2020 and currently serves as the Managing Director of Skilled Trades Recruiting and Apprenticeships. Kaylee began building her career in Human Resources and Recruitment in 2015 after completing her bachelor's in Human Resource Management at Davenport University. 

She concentrated her recruiting career in skilled trades after witnessing the ongoing challenges manufacturers have with the trades talent pool firsthand, and has recruited for the trades in both internal and third-party capacities. After attending her first Kaizen, Kaylee became fascinated by Lean theory and she recently earned her master's degree in Lean Manufacturing from Kettering University in Flint, Michigan.  

With a passion for manufacturing and processes, Kaylee's goal is to help our clients grow their skilled trades teams to the next level with the best workforce, structured apprenticeships, and strategic hiring and retention solutions. Kaylee specializes in skilled manufacturing placement including Maintenance, Electrical, Welding, and Machining from entry to management levels. 

Kaylee is a Certified Professional Resume Writer through the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches. She also serves as the Recruitment Chair on the Board of Directors for SECOM Resource Center.

Jacob Bailey joined Express Employment Professionals in 2022 as a Skilled Trades Recruiter to help our clients grow and develop their skilled teams. Prior to joining our team, he spent 5+ years developing his customer service and client relations expertise. He is determined to provide associates with the highest level of customer service and jobs they will genuinely enjoy. He earned his bachelor's and master's degree from Concordia University Ann Arbor and his goal is to help our clients grow their teams with strategic solutions, structured apprenticeship programs, and the best workforce possible.

Abby joined Express Employment Professionals in 2019 and currently serves as a Skilled Trades Recruiter. For over 15 years, Abby has specialized in hospitality and customer service including Restaurant Management and Event Coordination. Over the years she has grown to love a fast pace environment that provides an opportunity to genuinely connect and serve those around her. Her goal at Express is to partner with candidates throughout the application and employment process to give them the best possible experience. She also serves on the Associate Relations Team, working to make sure all Express associates feel valued and appreciated. Abby has a bachelor's degree in Graphic Design and Photography from Madonna University and has also completed coursework from the Kendall College of Art & Design.  She was recently featured in 2021 ArtPrize International Art Competition as a "must see," by WZZM13 and won 97 individual fan-favorite awards for her entry "A Work of Heart," featuring 19 stories overcoming adversity and struggle. This entry can be viewed at www.aworkofheartgr.com.

Sara began her career in the healthcare industry but has since expanded into hospitality and manufacturing. She has a wealth of knowledge that spans from Human Resources, OSHA Management, Recruiting, and everything in between. She has an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration and is currently working towards her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management at Cornerstone University. She has a passion for people and seeks to place them in a job with intentionality and care. In her personal time she loves spending time with her family, taking road trips and going to concerts.

Isaac joined Express Employment Professionals in 2019 as a Talent Solutions Specialist. Isaac brings over 5 years of staffing experience to the team. He also worked as a Career Counselor at a trade school and alternative high school as well as a Resident Director at Calvin University. Isaac considers helping people find meaningful employment his passion. His overall goal is to make sure each person he talks to has the right tools, coaching, and resources to be successful in whatever they are doing.

Isaac is a 2011 graduate of Calvin University with a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies. In his free time, Isaac enjoys singing and playing piano, playing golf and hockey, and is part of an improv team here in Grand Rapids.

Tracy Golden-Sanchez has been a valued staff member of Express Employment Professionals since 1998. She has served in various capacities, and is currently a Talent Solutions Specialist. Tracy has gained experience in staff management, sales, employee relations and recruitment since joining Express. Previously, she spent fifteen years in retail management and purchasing for a large national retail chain. Tracy has a passion and a heart to help people succeed. It gives her great satisfaction to know she has played a role in making a difference for both the company's and the employee's future. She motivates candidates as a job coach and draws upon her industry knowledge to help client companies find the right fit. Tracy has served on the Employer Advisory Board and volunteers with the Women's Resource Center. She also volunteers at several non-profit organizations conducting mock interviews, and providing coaching and mentoring for job search techniques. Tracy is a recipient of the Champion of Hope Award from Express Employment Professionals. This is a prestigious award given to those that embody the Express culture of community involvement and having a caring passion for people.

Zach Behling joined Express Employment Professionals in 2006 and currently serves as a Talent Solutions Specialist. His goal is to help our candidates have the best customer service experience while looking for a job and putting them at ease. Zach is a graduate of Grand Valley State University with a strong customer service background. He has experience of over ten years in the service industry and restaurant management. Zach is always willing to help and is a great asset to the Express Employment Professionals team.

Tyler joined Express Employment Professionals in 2022 as a Talent Solutions Specialist. Tyler brings 12 years of experience in the non-profit and wellness sector's where he has helped employ hundreds of staff in his career. He previously worked as the Member Services/Operations Manager at MVP Athletic Clubs as well as worked in Youth Development at the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids for 10 years. Tyler's passion is to help those around him and to create a better community. His overall goal is to make sure each person has the resources to be successful in whatever they are doing.

In his free time, Tyler enjoys playing golf, beach volleyball and spending time with his wife and daughter.

 

Alexis joined Express Employment Professionals in 2021 as a Front Office Coordinator. She has several years of customer service and administration experience. Prior to Express Employment Professionals, she worked in the Commercial Real Estate industry in Dallas, Texas. Alexis is enthusiastic about working closely with members of the Grand Rapids community, providing them a first-class concierge experience. Her goal is to work hand in hand with the Staffing Consultants to find the best opportunities for our associates, ensuring they leave the office with a smile on their face and a new career.

Saquoia joined Express Employment Professionals in 2023 as a Talent Solutions Specialist. She is a Grand Rapids, Michigan native and possesses several years of customer service and healthcare administration experience. She has also previously worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Saquoia strives to genuinely connect and assist those around her. She aims to not only ensure that those who work with her can reach their short-term goals but to also help them attain a long-term career that they relish. In her free time, she enjoys listening to music, watching movies, and traveling. 

Cayley joined the Express Employment Professionals team in 2023 as a Talent Solutions Specialist. She has over 7 years of customer service experience and a passion for connecting with others. Prior to Express, she worked in the food and service industry along with retail. She is a Davenport University alumni with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and her goal is to use her experience to contribute to the success of others by using her passion for helping others find a long-term career fit. Outside of work she loves to cook, hangout with  friends, paint, be active, and travel.

Grant joined Express Employment Professionals in 2019 as the Recruiting Coordinator. As a member of the Express Employment Professionals team, Grant serves the community by managing recruiting on all platforms. Grant received his bachelor's degree in Human Resource Management from Davenport University. He has several years of customer service and leadership experience and he exhibits a passion for helping people on and off the job. His goal is to be a leader in every area of his life and to spread love and positivity to the people he meets.

Melissa joined Express Employment Professionals in 2014 in the position of Front Office Coordinator / Guest Relations. She loves meeting new people and helping to create a Five-Star welcome for both our Clients and Associates. She brings over 20 years of experience in Customer Service and her career has included jewelry wholesales, HVAC office administration, and managing a premier salon and spa. Melissa is co-chair of the wellness committee and she brings a passion for celebrating life, health and all areas of wellness.

Anna joined the Express Employment Professionals team in 2022. She has a background in Social Work, having earned her Bachelor of Social Work in 2019 from Grand Valley State University. After graduating, she ran a group program that taught mental health lesson plans to kids and teens. She also has experience as a psychiatric assistant and as an office manager. She is excited to bring a social work and mental health perspective to the staffing industry. Her goal is to serve the community by removing barriers for clients and providing an excellent customer service experience. Outside of work, she enjoys video games, travelling, and spending time with her friends and family.

Jeani Ransom joined Express Employment Professionals in 2010 and is currently the Business Office Manager. Since working at Express, Jeani has experience working with our associates and clients as the Front Office Coordinator and Payroll Specialist with a goal to deliver exceptional service. Currently, her Associates Degree in Accounting helps her assist the owner with the activities of running the business. She has an extensive background in customer service and finances, having worked in the banking industry for over 12 years. She currently is very involved in her church youth program as well as the schools her children attend.

June joined Express Employment Professionals in 2023 as a Payroll and Client Specialist. She has over 16 years of experience in customer service and client relationship management. Prior to Express Employment Professionals, she worked in the Fintech Industry. June is determined to provide the highest level of customer service by building relationships with associates and clients to ensure that their needs are met. In her free time, June enjoys spending time with her family, crafting and volunteering in youth ministry.

Tricia Szymanski serves as the Executive Assistant to the owner at Express Employment Professionals. She has a business degree from Davenport University and many years of administrative experience. Tricia's main priority at Express is to assist the owner in all aspects of the business.

Nathan Leaman is a passionate professional with extensive experience in building systems and tools that support organizational and leadership effectiveness.  Nathan brings over 20 years of leadership and HR experience from both business and non-profit organizations. 

Nathan has a Bachelor's degree from the Moody Bible Institute, a Master's degree from Liberty University and received his coaching certification from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. Nathan spent seven years in full-time church ministry before working for 13 years at the Kohler Co.  At Kohler, Nathan moved through various HR roles eventually taking the position of Director- Leadership Development.  Nathan also held various executive HR roles for the Grande Cheese Company in Fond du Lac, WI where he was responsible for Organizational Development, Compensation, Benefits Management and HRIS.

Nathan has extensive experience with assessment tools and is certified in multiple personality and 360 degree feedback assessments.  His straightforward style, willingness to tackle difficult issues, genuine interest in seeing others grow and ability to coach at all levels makes Nathan a go-to resource for strategic HR support and executive development.

 

Lorraine Medici joined Express Employment Professionals in 2014 as the Director of Training and Development .  Lorraine has extensive experience as a coach and workshop facilitator in the areas of leadership and team building, working closely with companies to strategize solutions that will impact long-term results in engagement and retention. She has successfully launched  Purpose-Driven Leadership Training , a series targeted at helping develop managers and leaders at all levels in manufacturing and other industries. Additionally, she facilitates the on-going training series,  Breakfast with Purpose, to bring current and relevant education to organizations. As a professional development coach, Lorraine also works alongside leaders and teams to overcome interpersonal or performance challenges. She is certified to train DISC, Situational Leadership and Emotional Intelligence (EQi 2.0), and an Associate Certified Coach and Master Practitioner for the ELI Assessment.

As Director of Manufacturing Training, John Keuning has a passion to put his 30 years of manufacturing and leadership experience to work for companies by providing both classroom training, virtual training, and on-site consulting. His goal is to help develop better leaders, engage workers, lower cost of goods, and increase profits for companies by arming teams with the tools necessary to be great agents of change. John's favorite place to be is on the plant floor working side-by-side with teams and leaders to find solutions to manufacturing questions.

He has extensive experience in Lean manufacturing theory and implementation as well as helping new and advancing leaders understand the day-to-day work of being a leader. John has served multiple industries as a supervisor, Lean leader, product launch leader, production manager, plant manager, and director of manufacturing.

Dayna joined the Frontline team in 2023 as the Client Relations Manager / Senior Facilitator. Having spent her career in commercial health and wellness and non-profit leadership, Dayna has been connecting with individuals and training adults for over 30 years. She believes wholeheartedly that everyone is a leader, and her goal is to connect people with solutions and to coach/help grow the next generation of leaders in her circle of care.

Dayna is a lifelong learner and has completed her education with both Central Michigan University and Davenport University, studying corporate wellness and executive level business administration and she continues to believe the best classroom experiences occur when we connect to one another at a human level of grace and appreciation.

Ryan Williams serves as a Team Development Specialist at Express Employment Professionals of Grand Rapids. He is a certified Everything DiSC facilitator and has his master's in organizational leadership from Cornerstone University. Ryan brings a wide variety of cross cultural leadership experience, having worked previously in Hong Kong and with Native American populations in Alaska. Most recently, Ryan has worked in higher education, developing and implementing training curriculum and programs across the organization.

Ryan's passion and focus is for everyone to love the place they work. People who love their workplace, work harder and perform better. He brings a unique perspective in helping organizations evaluate their organizational culture, understand cross cultural dynamics, and implement strategies to create better leaders.

 

Lary Shoemaker has over 20 years of hands-on experience in the precision machining and advanced manufacturing industry and over 15 years working as an instructor in these areas. He is an expert trainer in the areas of precision machining, manufacturing basics, CAD/CAM, CNC, and Pre-engineering. 

He began his career with Paragon Die and Engineering as a machinist apprentice and later became a journeyman machinist and master machine builder. Lary later held the position of Plant Manager at Highlight Industries where his responsibilities grew to include the management of mechanical and electrical engineering, purchasing, inventory, and quality.  During this time, Lary worked with the U.S. Dept. of Labor to develop the company's registered apprenticeship programs for machinist and welding.

In 1997 Lary was hired by Grand Rapids Community College, Business and Technical Training group as a Training Specialist of manufacturing and precision machining. Since 1999 Lary has been teaching industrial education at Byron Center High School.  He was hired to teach and develop the fledgling industrial education program. He was instrumental in planning the new facility, specifying precision machines, CAD/CAM software, and curriculum development. His teaching load includes CAD, CAM, CNC, Drafting, Blueprint Reading and Pre-engineering.

Alec McGuire joined the Express Employment Professionals team in 2022 as the Training & Event Coordinator. He has 9 years of customer service and leadership experience from his previous work in restaurant and event management. It was during this time that he developed a passion for delivering an excellent customer experience. Alec is a graduate of Grand Valley State University with a Degree in French Linguistics and a minor in International Relations. In his free time, Alec enjoys playing the guitar, keeping up on his French, and traveling.

Heather Merrick has over 15 years of experience in human resources related roles, with strong experience in talent acquisition, organizational and workforce development, employee engagement, HR policy development, and HR strategy. She joined Express Employment Professionals in 2015 and currently serves as the Managing Director for Specialized Recruiting Group, an Express Employment Professionals company to partner with client companies in providing HR solutions for recruiting and retaining top-notch talent, including training, workforce development, and recruitment strategies. Heather also provides consultation on HR policy development; best practices for employee engagement, organizational development, talent acquisition, and succession management; Veteran hiring, onboarding, and retention initiatives; and HR strategy for business success. Her recruiting experience includes manufacturing leadership, engineering, skilled trades, human resources, accounting/finance, sales & marketing, information technology, project management, administrative, medical, government, and non-profit roles.

In addition to her private sector work experience, Heather served 7 years on active duty in the United States Army and is a certified SHRM Foundation Inclusion Captain for Veteran Hiring, Onboarding, and Retention initiatives. Her education includes a bachelor of business administration degree with a double major in human resources management and marketing; a master of business administration degree with a concentration in human resources; and she is a SHRM Senior Certified Professional.

Heather is also an active volunteer in the community, having served on the AHRM Board of Directors in Grand Rapids in a variety of roles since 2013 including being selected as President for 2022, Vice President for 2021; serving as the Director of Workforce Readiness for the MISHRM Council for 2020 and 2021; and serving on a Board Committee for Family Promise of Grand Rapids in 2020 and 2021. Previous volunteer experience includes Michigan Blood; American Red Cross (Board Committee); Goodwill Industries of Grand Rapids; and Mosaic Film Experience.

Keri Banish joined Specialized Recruiting Group in 2023 as a Professional Recruiter. She holds a bachelor's degree in Economics with a minor in International Business from Grand Valley State University. Keri has gained valuable professional experience in customer service, sales, and talent development. She looks forward to enhancing her skills to support companies in building successful teams. Keri enjoys running, watching reality TV, and spending quality time with friends and family.