EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT: Kellen Kelsey
Kellen is an enrolled Winnebago Tribal member and has been employed with Ho-Chunk, Inc. one year. He is a Project Specialist on the Corporate Operations team in Winnebago.
➡️ Tell us more about yourself.
I am the youngest son of Wayne and Mary Kelsey and belong to the Thunder Clan.
➡️ What does your role as Project Specialist entail?
I work closely with Systems of Awards Management, Ho-Chunk, Inc.’s involvement with the 8(a) and HUBZone programs, and assisting business development in our government contracting divisions.
Basically – a lot of maintaining, complying and communicating!
➡️ Why do you feel working for a Native-owned company is important?
For me, it’s important to work for a Native-owned company because it’s empowering to see others who look like me and have had similar life experiences as me develop professionally and personally in a corporate setting – which isn’t really the norm in Indian Country, but Ho-Chunk, Inc. makes that possible.
I also believe it’s important that our goal remains that we help our Tribe ensure equity so we can all enjoy equality.
The most unique and important aspect of Ho-Chunk, Inc. is to improve the socio-economic status of the Winnebago Tribe and that’s something I’ll always love being a part of.
➡️ How has Ho-Chunk, Inc. helped you grow?
Ho-Chunk, Inc. has help me realize my strengths and weaknesses. I feel like I’ve been becoming better at communicating professionally along with teaching and being teachable.
Finally, I’ve become a little bit better with computer applications. I’m still not the best with Microsoft Excel but I’m way better compared to a year ago!
➡️ Now for the fun question! What do you like to do outside of work?
Whenever I have spare time, I like to relax as much as possible. In the last few years, I’ve been getting back into reading for my own enjoyment along with going for walks when the weather allows it.
