This month, we’re highlighting some of the amazing women we’ve worked with over the years. Felicia Sheffield is the Human Resources Coordinator at Blacklidge Emulsions in Gulfport, Mississippi. Her dedication to bettering the lives of the people she works with is an inspiration to us at Sol. Enjoy her insights below!
Why do you do what you do?
Being the HR Coordinator at Blacklidge gives me the opportunity to incite positive policy changes for all employees. I also have the chance to help employees personally when they run into different issues. It’s been great building relationships with so many different employees within the company.
What would you want others to know about your work?
In short, I manage all employee insurance, benefits, onboarding, payroll processes and wellness initiatives. I also collaborate with the executive team on company policy changes and implementation.
At what moment did you know you were a leader?
Personally: Probably the first time I was told “You’re the oldest and that means more responsibility.” I have two younger sisters and I’ve always tried my best to be a good example. I could see early on that where I led, they would follow. Professionally: I’m still growing into that role, but I think I’m on the right track.
Who are the women you look up to?
My Mammaw and my Mom. Independent, smart, kind, generous and loving women who always give the best of themselves to every person they come in contact with. Neither have lived an easy life, but their optimistic outlook, resilient character and positive energy have always been and continue to be a guiding light in my life.
If you could lift up or spotlight another woman, who would she be and why?
Melanie Reilly is my fellow coworker as well as one of my closest friends. She amazes me on a regular basis with her dedication not only to her job and her family, but also her service in the community to others. She puts so much thought and care into everything she does and I have no idea how she finds the time to do it all, but she always does!
How can we support an initiative you care about?
I don’t have a flagship initiative per say, but anything that helps the environment and/or promotes kindness and acceptance between individuals deserves as much recognition as possible these days.
What is your biggest piece of advice for young women today?
The people you surround yourself with become a part of you whether you realize it or not. Their perspective will influence your own, their words will become your words, and the scariest part is you might not ever notice it happening, but it will. Spend your time with people who inspire and motivate you to be the best version of yourself. You will be amazed at how doing that can drastically change the direction of your life.
Thank you, Felicia!
