
This week we provide some insight on Emerging Leader Stacie Waalkens! She is currently at our Cedar Rapids Ford location! Let’s dive in and learn a little bit more about Stacie and what makes her tick!
The Deets!

City you were born in
Cedar Rapids, IA
Where do you live now?
Marion, IA
Tell us a little about your family:
I’m married with 4 children, ranging in age from 21 to 1. I have 3 girls and 1 boy. We also currently have 4 dogs, 3 cats and 1 gecko.
Straight From Stacie
What was your first job? Did you love it or hate it?
I worked at a daycare center, it was the perfect job while being in high school. I only worked in the afternoon and had every weekend off!
What has your career been like so far?
For the most part I always worked retail jobs, usually in a supervisor capacity until I came to McGrath.
What’s an accomplishment you are proud of?
I am most proud of how my 3 oldest children have turned out. They have all become responsible, well adjusted and happy adults. There’s nothing more amazing then that.
What’s a passion that gets you fired up everyday?
My family, I do everything I can to make sure they are taken care of everyday and that they happy and healthy.
Who’s someone you admire, and why do you look up to them?
My grandmother, she always worked hard and appreciated everything she had. She was a very warm and caring person who took care of others, and most importantly she always had fun while doing it!

What are some of your hobbies and interests?
I love to play golf with my husband as much as possible, and football weekends are my favorites!
One thing you want to do before you die:
I want to travel to somewhere tropical and warm.
Personal motto:
Always work hard and appreciate what you have, you never know when things will change.
What’s your definition of happiness?
Being at peace with everything I do.
What’s a piece of advice someone gave that you apply everyday?
Don’t let anger or hatred control your life.
What do you hope to achieve at McGrath?
I want to become as successful as possible in my role and earning more responsibilities.
I wanted to be an Emerging Leader because…
…I wanted to make personal improvements, especially in the area of communication.
Want to learn more about team members like our Emerging Leader Stacie Waalkens? You can read all about our most recent group of graduates right here: Emerging Leaders 2021 Graduation