One Olympic Team Spotlight - Ellyn Wilson

Meet Ellyn Wilson, Regional HR Manager and a member of our ONE OLYMPIC Training & Education Subcommittee.

Two years ago, Olympic Steel reached a significant milestone in our diversity efforts by establishing employee-run ONE OLYMPIC Team Subcommittees. These individuals volunteered to take part in this work, in addition to their regular job duties, because they each wanted to make a positive impact on our Company.

Each month, we’ll give you the opportunity to learn a little bit more about the employees helping to strengthen Olympic Steel’s culture. Last month we featured Melinda Cleaveland and this month…

Ellyn Wilson, Regional HR Manager, Olympic Steel

Q: What motivated you to become a ONE OLYMPIC Team Member?

A: I was heavily involved in culture work at my previous company and wanted to be able to make an impact and difference at Olympic Steel as well.

Q: Share a unique fun fact or characteristic about yourself.

A: I am really big on engaging with others. (Imagine that, as I am in charge of employee engagement for the Company!) I think a smile and a simple hello can go a long way, and a smile is always the first thing I notice about others. Recently in Europe, I had someone stop me and ask if I was American, and they said the fact that I was smiling while walking gave it away.

Q: What’s your favorite thing about being an Olympic Steel employee?

A: I love the people I work with and the ability to have freedom to improve processes that directly affect our workforce.

Q: In your opinion, what's a simple action everyone can take to make our Company a welcoming workplace?

A: Taking a few minutes to say hi and getting to know other people in the workforce. By getting to know your coworkers, we are investing in each other.

Q: When it comes to work, what’s your superpower? What special skill do you offer to support your co-workers/team?

A: My ‘superpower’ is the ability to make everyone feel important and special. I really go out of my way to help others, whether it be through training and education or helping with other tasks. I care to get to know people and be able to ask them about their lives and not just be the scary person in HR, but a welcoming face.

Q: What cultural/heritage celebration or tradition holds special meaning for you? Mind sharing why?

A: Honestly, none come to mind, but I love seeing how other people celebrate and embrace what is important to them. It is great to get more information and learn about why people celebrate different things and the meaning behind them.