When Teressa is not working, you can probably find her somewhere in the mountains.

“I like to go camping, fishing, hiking—anything outdoors because I am always working indoors,” she says.

But that’s not to say that Teressa dislikes her job. In fact, she quite enjoys working as a DI associate and is appreciative of the opportunities she has had while in the role.

“I have trained in quite a few areas here,” Terresa says. “I will be cashier certified, I am forklift certified, and I am a team lead.”

Teressa emphasizes that being a good leader is not about designation—it is about action.

“[Leadership] is being a good example to everyone around you,” Teressa says. “Showing up, doing the job, helping others, learning as quickly as you can, getting the products out, and meeting the goals. I want my team members to follow my lead so they can advance.”

Teressa has seen how her leadership has strengthened her workplace relationship with her supervisor.

“He can trust me to take over,” Teressa says. “He knows that things are going to work like they are supposed to, and he doesn't have to worry.”

One of Teressa’s favorite parts of the job is working alongside her job coach and the development counselors.

“They are great—they help everybody,” Teressa says. “I have seen a lot of change in associates in just the short amount of time I have been here.”

Teressa credits DI for providing resources to associates that further their professional development. She has specifically appreciated receiving financial assistance for obtaining additional education and having the opportunity to lead.

“They have really helped me a lot,” Teressa says. “I was amazed at how quickly I advanced here. If you want it, you can do it.”