It All Starts With People: Celebrating 20 Years of Impact with Paula

It All Starts With People: Celebrating 20 Years of Impact with Paula

At Labor Systems, our philosophy is simple: It All Starts With People.

This philosophy guides how we work every day—shaped by relationships, strengthened by trust, and carried out by people who step in and step up. This April, we’re proud to spotlight someone who embodies that philosophy in every sense of the word: Paula, a 20-year veteran whose impact reaches across nearly every corner of our company.

A Career Built on Curiosity and Commitment

Paula’s journey into staffing wasn’t conventional—and that’s exactly what makes it powerful.

She began her career working with a global energy company, gaining experience across multiple facets of the business—from convenience store operations to contract work and ownership structures. When she transitioned into risk, she found her place—and ultimately, her purpose.

Twenty years later, she’s still here. Not by accident, but by intention.

“I like the work,” Paula says simply. “I like dealing with people. I like knowing what I do impacts our workers and the company in a positive way.”

And impact she has.

Wearing Many Hats—And Wearing Them Well

In her role, Paula doesn’t just do one job—she does many. Risk, by nature, touches every part of the business, and Paula thrives in that space.

“I wear many different hats,” she explains. “I get to deal with every aspect of the company.”

That versatility is one of her greatest strengths. Whether she’s guiding a client through a workers’ compensation claim, collaborating with different divisions, or stepping in to help the warehouse when needed, Paula leads by example: no task is too small, and no challenge is too big.

Helping People Through Their Hardest Moments

At the heart of Paula’s work is something deeply human—helping people navigate crisis.

In the world of risk and workers’ compensation, conversations aren’t always easy. Injuries, uncertainty, and frustration can make even the most straightforward situations feel overwhelming. That’s where Paula steps in.

“A lot of people find this position challenging,” she says. “You have to be clear. You have to guide them through and let them know what’s coming.”

Her approach is rooted in clarity, empathy, and trust. She takes the time to understand each individual situation, helping employees move from injury to recovery—and ultimately, back to work.

Because to Paula, success isn’t just about closing a case. It’s about restoring someone’s sense of their own purpose.

“If we don’t get people back to work, they lose interest,” she explains. “We focus on understanding their injury so we can help them return safely.”

Building Relationships That Matter

For Paula, “It Starts With People” isn’t just a phrase—it’s a daily practice.

“It’s all about the people you meet,” she says. “Getting to know them, understanding what makes them tick, what makes them productive. It’s about relationships.”

That mindset extends to how she builds trust—with clients, colleagues, and the company itself. Over two decades, she’s established a reputation not just for her knowledge, but for her integrity.

“They know I’m not going to take them down the wrong path,” she says. “Everything I do is with the company’s best interest in mind. We’re all on the same team with the same objective.”

Finding Purpose in the Everyday

Ask Paula what she’s most proud of, and you won’t hear about one defining moment.

“I don’t look at it that way,” she says. “Every small accomplishment is an achievement.”

Whether she’s helping someone file a claim, calming a frustrated employee, or stepping in wherever she’s needed, Paula finds purpose in showing up—and stepping up.

Life Beyond the Office

Outside of work, Paula’s grounded in the things that matter most: family, nature, and connection.

An avid outdoors enthusiast, she enjoys camping, fishing, and spending time around a campfire—far from the noise of everyday life. She’s also deeply family-oriented, with three adult children and a love for animals that reflects her caring nature.

Why This Work Matters

At the end of the day, Paula’s motivation is simple—and powerful.

“I love people,” she says. “I love watching them, listening to them. You have to see each person as an individual.”

And that’s exactly why her work matters.

“I don’t want to see people get hurt to the extent that they can never work again,” she adds. “It’s tough out there. An injury can wipe you out. But if you have someone to guide you, you can get back to being a productive person.”

The Heart of Labor Systems

People like Paula don’t ask for recognition. They don’t need a spotlight or a parade.

But they are the reason companies like ours succeed.

They are the steady hands in moments of uncertainty. The problem-solvers. The relationship-builders. The ones who show up—day after day—and quietly make a lasting impact.

Because at Labor Systems, it truly does start with people.

And Paula is at the very heart of that story.