This week’s Emerging Leader is one of a kind! We would like to introduce you to Maria! She is currently an incredible business office manager at our Ford location. Let’s dive in and learn a little bit more about Maria!
What city were you born in?
Chicago, IL
Where do you live now?
Cedar Rapids, IA
Tell us a little about your family (pets included!)
I come from a really big, blended family. The majority of it still lives in Chicago, but I have family in Puerto Rico, New York, and Texas. I’m the oldest of 6 kids with the largest age difference being 24 years. I am engaged and getting married next year in April. I live with my fiancé, MJ, and our Pitbull fur-baby named Baby!
Career Endeavors
What was your first job? Did you love or hate it?
My first job was a cashier/bagger at a grocery store when I was 16. I had a love/hate relationship with it because it wasn’t the most glamorous but I loved the people I worked with – coworkers and customers.
What has your career been like so far?
I’ve gone from one customer service job to the next but I’m just getting started at McGrath!
Why did you want to become an Emerging Leader?
I wanted the opportunity to learn more and get to network with others in the company that I normally wouldn’t get the chance to.
What’s an accomplishment that you’re proud of?
Going back to school full time at 30 and finishing my degree in Psychology!
What’s a passion that gets you fired up for your day?
My fiancé!
More About Maria!
Who’s someone you admire, and why do you look up to them?
My mom. She’s worked really hard in her career to get to where she is today. She taught me to never settle for less.
What are some of your hobbies and interests?
Dungeons and Dragons, laser tag, reading, music, spending time with my friends and family, and being a scare actor at a haunted house!
What is one thing you want to do before you die?
Sky dive
Personal motto:
Just keep going
Something you’re good at that might surprise people?
Singing, but you’d have to bribe me to do it
What’s your definition of happiness?
Being surrounded by people that I love unconditionally.
What do you hope to achieve at McGrath?
I really want to be a Sales Manager but most importantly, I want to make a difference with my customers’ experience.
What is a piece of everyday advice?
“Control the things you can and take it one day at a time.”
Maria
Want to learn more about team members like our Emerging Leader Maria Candelario ? You can read all about our most recent group of graduates right here: Emerging Leaders 2021 Graduation